Watch Paparazzi

Rapper Jay-Z spotted wearing Audemars Piguet

Jay-Z was photographed wearing the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph in 18k rose gold, reference 25940OK — a version of the Offshore that sits firmly at the top of the standard production hierarchy before you enter fully bespoke or limited-edition territory. The sighting places one of hip-hop's most celebrated watch collectors firmly in familiar AP territory, continuing a relationship with the Le Brassus manufacture that stretches back decades.

The reference 25940OK is built around a 44mm case machined entirely in 18k rose gold, complete with the iconic octagonal bezel secured by eight hexagonal gold screws — the architectural signature Gerald Genta embedded into the original Royal Oak in 1972 and which Gerald Genta himself later expanded into the larger, more aggressive Offshore in 1993. The dial presents the classic Offshore layout: integrated chronograph pushers at 2 and 4 o'clock, a tapisserie pattern, and three subsidiary registers. Power comes from the in-house calibre 2226/2840, a column-wheel chronograph movement with integrated construction, COSC chronometric certification, and approximately 40 hours of power reserve. The solid case back is engraved with the Royal Oak Offshore name — no exhibition caseback on this model, preserving the clean architectural rear profile.

Among collectors, the 25940OK commands respect as the purest expression of Offshore excess in a precious metal. Rose gold Offshores have historically attracted strong secondary market premiums relative to their steel equivalents, and the 44mm rose gold chronograph represents a meaningful commitment — both financially and aesthetically. Its weight on the wrist is notably different from the steel or titanium variants, and that physical presence is precisely what makes it divisible: enthusiasts either embrace it completely or prefer the understated sportiness of the base metals.

Jay-Z's connection to Audemars Piguet is well documented. He has worn AP pieces at public appearances, in music videos, and on private occasions photographed alongside Beyoncé — as appears to be the context here. His taste within the AP catalogue trends toward high-complication or precious-metal pieces rather than entry-level sport references, and the 25940OK aligns precisely with that pattern.

At UK RRP of approximately £25,000, the 25940OK sits at a price point that reflects both the rose gold material cost and the manufacture movement inside. On the grey market, rose gold Royal Oak Offshore chronographs in good condition have traded at modest premiums to retail, though market conditions fluctuate. Buyers should verify authentication carefully given the enduring desirability of the reference.