Watch Paparazzi

Footballer Deniz Undav spotted wearing Audemars Piguet

VfB Stuttgart and Germany national team striker Deniz Undav made headlines at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, emerging as a key player in Germany's run through the tournament. The late-bloomer's performance against Ivory Coast showcased both his technical skill and composure, cementing his status as one of the competition's breakout stars. Notably, Undav has been spotted wearing the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph Ref. 26240BA.OO.1320BA.02 in 18k yellow gold, a sophisticated choice reflecting his rising profile.

The Royal Oak Chronograph Ref. 26240BA.OO.1320BA.02 represents a milestone in Audemars Piguet's modern chronograph evolution. Released in 2024, this reference introduced the smoked gold-toned Grande Tapisserie dial—a dial finish previously reserved for the yellow-gold Royal Oak Jumbo introduced in 2022. The 41mm case, measuring 12.4mm in thickness, houses caliber 4401, a self-winding movement featuring a column-wheel chronograph with vertical clutch and flyback function. Water resistance extends to 100 meters, suitable for daily wear despite the dress-watch aesthetic. The integrated yellow-gold bracelet with three-link design completes the cohesive design language.

Calibер 4401 represents significant technical refinement in contemporary chronograph watchmaking. The column-wheel construction, paired with a vertical clutch mechanism, delivers smooth chronograph engagement and disengagement. Flyback functionality allows the wearer to reset and restart the chronograph without first halting it—a feature historically reserved for pilot and racing watches. The movement operates at 4 Hz with a 70-hour power reserve, balancing energy efficiency with extended winding intervals. This caliber distinguishes the reference 26240BA.OO.1320BA.02 from earlier Royal Oak chronographs, which employed different column-wheel configurations.

The smoked gold dial variant commands particular collector attention. Unlike the standard blue or black dials available in stainless steel, the gradient smoked gold finish appears exclusive to yellow-gold executions of the Royal Oak Chronograph. This exclusivity, combined with the 2024 production start, positions the reference as a contemporary collectible rather than an established classic. Audemars Piguet maintains strict annual production quotas across the Royal Oak line, creating consistent demand among collectors.

Retail pricing for the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph Ref. 26240BA.OO.1320BA.02 begins at approximately $43,400 USD. Grey-market pricing typically ranges between $48,000 and $56,000 depending on condition and market timing. Authorized dealer waitlists for yellow-gold Royal Oak models routinely extend 24–36 months, reflecting sustained collector demand. Undav's choice aligns with the timepiece's positioning as a statement piece for professionals and athletes navigating high-pressure environments.