Watch Paparazzi

Rapper 2 Chainz spotted wearing Audemars Piguet

2 Chainz was recently spotted wearing a fully baguette-set Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 15400OR.OO.1220OR.01 — a piece that represents one of the most labour-intensive iterations of Gérald Genta's iconic 1972 design, with a street price that comfortably clears the $200,000 mark.

The 15400OR sits at the top of the standard Royal Oak lineup before the more elaborate high-jewellery complications take over. Its 41mm case and seven-row integrated bracelet are crafted entirely in 18ct rose gold, and in this specific reference every surface — bezel, dial, lugs, and bracelet links — is pavé-set with baguette-cut diamonds. Baguette setting is significantly more demanding than round-brilliant pavé: each rectangular stone must be individually calibrated and held by hand-cut grain prongs, making the tolerances unforgiving. The dial retains the Royal Oak's signature "Grande Tapisserie" pattern beneath the stones, a nod to authenticity that collectors appreciate. Inside beats Calibre 3120, AP's in-house 40-jewel automatic movement with a 60-hour power reserve and a 21,600 vph beat rate — robust, well-regulated, and entirely appropriate for a watch at this price tier.

The reference 15400OR replaced the long-running 15300 in 2012, bringing a slimmer profile and a redesigned caseback. In jewellery-set form it occupies a specific niche: wearable as a daily statement piece while commanding the technical respect of the base reference. Among collectors, fully set Royal Oaks in rose gold hold their value tenaciously; the combination of a recognisable silhouette and irreversible gem-setting labour makes supply perpetually tight.

2 Chainz — born Tauheed Epps in College Park, Georgia — built his profile as one half of Playaz Circle, the Southern hip-hop duo signed to Ludacris' Disturbing tha Peace imprint, before establishing a substantial solo career. His watch choices have consistently reflected a preference for grand complications and heavily adorned pieces that read clearly on stage and on camera.

On the secondary market, the 15400OR in full baguette configuration trades between $180,000 and $220,000 depending on condition and completeness of set; retail is seldom a relevant reference point given perennial waiting lists at authorised dealers.