Dear watch friends, today we are going to talk about a watch that countless players with small wrists miss – the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 26315ST “Blue Eyes” just released by the APS factory.
To be honest, in the Royal Oak series, 41mm and 39mm models are everywhere, but the 38mm model that is truly suitable for Asian wrists has always been scarce. Especially this “blue eye”, with silver and blue contrasting dial design, it has the toughness of a sports watch without losing its elegance. It is suitable for both men and women. Now the APS factory has finally made it, and it uses a Dandong integrated custom movement. The thickness is directly reduced to 11mm, which is exactly the same as the original version.
Why is 38mm the golden size?
Let’s talk about size first. Many watch friends may think that when buying a watch, you have to buy a big one, starting at 40mm is enough to be stylish. But after actually wearing it, you will find that for friends with a wrist circumference of 15-16cm, 38mm is really comfortable. It doesn’t look too small, nor does it look like you’re wearing a “pot lid” on your hand.
The 38mm diameter of the 26315ST retains the Royal Oak’s iconic octagonal bezel and hexagonal screw design. The lines are still tough, but the overall proportions are more restrained. Boys look low-key and gentlemen when worn, and girls (especially those with a wrist circumference of about 13cm) can hold it completely, giving them a cool and cool look. At this point, APS Factory does understand the needs of players.
Where is the blue in “blue eyes”?
The most attractive thing about this watch is the “blue eyes” disk design. The large silver dial is paved with the classic “Grande Tapisserie” large plaid, and the three small chronograph dials are deep blue. The outer ring is also outlined in blue. From a distance, it looks like a clear blue eye, which is particularly lively.
This time, the APS factory followed the original model and made the pattern. The three-dimensional effect of the plaid is very strong. When the light shines on it, the sense of layering comes out immediately. The time scales and hands are both stick-shaped and polished very sharply. The luminous coating is also in place, so it is no problem to read the time at night.
But to be honest, the review also mentioned that the color of the small dial is still slightly different from the original version, and the calendar font also has room for optimization. But fortunately, this watch is very popular in the modification circle. There will definitely be third parties that will provide replacement disks and accessories in the future. Those who pursue the ultimate watch can upgrade later.
Movement is the real thing: the breakthrough of Dandong one-piece movement
Speaking of movements, this is the biggest killer feature of the APS factory this time.
Most of the previous 26315 replicas used a modified movement based on the 7750. The thickness soared to 15mm. When worn on the hand, it felt like a “pressure cooker”. It was thick and heavy, and the wearing experience was extremely poor. The APS factory used a customized Dandong integrated movement this time, and controlled the thickness to 11mm, which is exactly the same as the original version.
This is not as simple as thinning. According to the official introduction, this movement has more than 40 additional parts compared to the modified version, and the calendar system and motherboard have been redesigned. In actual experience, the instantaneous calendar jump is very smooth, and the power reserve can reach 45 hours, which is completely sufficient for daily wear.
The most important thing is that the small chronograph dials at three o’clock and nine o’clock achieve true horizontal opposition, and the visual effect is particularly harmonious. Through the transparent back, you can see the 22K vacuum electroplated automatic rotor, which is engraved with the AP logo. The APS factory has indeed not been lazy in terms of quality.
Strap details: Polished and brushed alternately, wearing comfort is online
As for the strap, the APS factory also uses genuine molds. The stainless steel material has been alternately polished and brushed, and the texture is very delicate. The link structure is designed to be ergonomic, and it fits well on the hand without pinching hair. The integrated design seamlessly connects with the case, ensuring sturdiness while continuing the Royal Oak’s iconic aesthetics.
Summary: “Blue Eyes” is worth buying
In general, the 26315ST “Blue Eyes” from APS Factory is a “low-key but hard-core” product. The gold size of 38mm, the ultra-thin thickness of 11mm, the Dandong integrated custom movement, and the highly restored disk pattern. Together, these factors make it firmly stand in the first echelon of Royal Oak replica watches.
Although there is a slight regret in the color of the dial, considering the subsequent modification plan and its own solid foundation, this watch is indeed worth playing with. Especially for those friends who have thin wrists and want a Royal Oak, this is definitely a belated blessing.
A final reminder, the replica watch market is a mixed bag. Before buying one, be sure to find reliable channels and confirm that it is produced by the original APS factory. After all, the movement is stable, the workmanship is in place, and the after-sales service is guaranteed, so you can play with peace of mind.
I am purewatches. Which watch would you like to see an in-depth review of next time? Tell me in the comment section!