Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Scuba Diver 15701ST ‘Boutique Edition’ – Red Internal Rotating Bezel - Limited Edition

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Scuba Diver 15701ST 'Boutique Edition' – Red Internal Rotating Bezel – Limited Edition Introduced in 1993, the Royal Oak Offshore marked Audemars Piguet's bold evolution of the classic Royal Oak, designed to emphasize strength, sportiness, and modernity while maintaining the brand's signature craftsmanship. With its oversized case, rubber accents, and vibrant dial variations, the Offshore appealed to collectors seeking a luxury watch with strong presence and personality. The debut model, reference 25721, unveiled at the 1993 Basel Fair, made an immediate impact with its 42 mm case, exposed gasket, and commanding wrist presence and price, earning it the nickname 'The Beast'. In 2005, the Royal Oak Offshore line, originally centered around bold chronographs, began its evolution into purpose-built tool watches with the introduction of the Royal Oak Offshore Scuba, created to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Wempe retailer. This inaugural reference, 15340, was limited to just 210 pieces, all sold exclusively through Wempe's Munich boutique. Following the success of the Wempe edition, Audemars Piguet quickly launched a series of boutique-exclusive limited editions, each distinguished by vibrant internal rotating bezels in a range of colors. These models retained the 42 mm stainless steel case, but introduced key technical features such as a rotating dive bezel operated via a crown at 10 o'clock, 300 meters of water resistance, and a more function-forward design suitable for professional diving. To complement its sporty character, each piece was fitted with a rubber strap and a folding clasp featuring the double AP monogram, a distinctive design element, now discontinued, that elegantly blended functionality with brand identity. The present example of this rare and limited 'Boutique Edition' showcases a bold and striking configuration, featuring a black dial with oversized applied Arabic numerals and a 'Maxi Tapisserie' pattern, contrasted by a vivid red internal rotating bezel. Well preserved throughout, it remains in excellent condition. Of particular interest to collectors, the watch is offered with its original box and papers, including the special presentation box exclusive to this edition.