In brief
- A major collaboration sealed by a limited edition of 500 pieces signed by Audemars Piguet and Serena Williams.
- A compact case 38 mm in diameter entirely crafted in white ceramic and water-resistant to 50 metres.
- The integration of the new Calibre 6401, a manufacture self-winding chronograph movement visible through the sapphire caseback.
The Swiss manufacture Audemars Piguet has partnered with the global tennis icon to unveil the new Audemars Piguet Serena Williams watch, a brand-new version of its famous 38 mm Royal Oak Chronograph combining white ceramic with the softness of a pink mother-of-pearl dial. This highly technical edition celebrates more than a decade of friendship and perfectly illustrates the encounter between Haute Horlogerie and the energy of high-level sport. A timepiece that immediately stands out as one of the most remarkable launches of this autumn 2026.
- Maison: Audemars Piguet
- Model: Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph “Serena Williams” Limited Edition (reference 26450CB.OO.1356CB.02)
- Diameter: 38 mm (thickness of 11.1 mm)
- Materials: White ceramic, pink mother-of-pearl dial
- Movement: Manufacture Calibre 6401 self-winding
- Edition: Limited to 500 pieces
The architectural brilliance of white ceramic
The sculptural brilliance of white ceramic
The choice of white ceramic to craft the 38 mm case, the octagonal bezel, the push-pieces, the crown and the integrated bracelet testifies to the technical mastery of the Le Brassus manufacture. The use of this material, which is particularly difficult to machine, offers exceptional scratch resistance while maintaining remarkable lightness on the wrist. Audemars Piguet applies its signature finishes here: surfaces alternate with precision between delicate satin-brushing and polished chamfers, creating plays of light that highlight the legendary architecture of the Royal Oak.
With a thickness contained at 11.1 mm and guaranteed water resistance up to 50 metres, this model maintains ideal proportions. It is a compact format for a self-winding chronograph, perfectly suited to wrists seeking an assertive yet elegant presence. The integrated white ceramic bracelet completes this highly graphic monochrome aesthetic, extending the lines of the case fluidly.
The poetic contrast of pink mother-of-pearl
The softness of a pink mother-of-pearl dial
Against the geometric rigour of the ceramic, the pink-tinted mother-of-pearl dial brings an organic and changing dimension. The shades subtly shift according to the angle of the light, offering each piece a unique face. The chronograph counters maintain optimal legibility, while the pink date window integrates harmoniously between 4 and 5 o’clock without disrupting the overall visual balance.
To accentuate the versatility of this creation, the Maison also provides an additional interchangeable pink rubber strap. Fitted with white ceramic studs and a titanium folding clasp, this second strap transforms the look of the timepiece. It allows for a transition from formal and sculptural elegance to a resolutely sporty silhouette, in phase with the dynamic daily life of the tennis champion.
The modern mechanics of Calibre 6401
The precision of the new Calibre 6401
Beyond its striking two-tone aesthetic, this Royal Oak Serena Williams features a major mechanical innovation: the Calibre 6401. Introduced by Audemars Piguet earlier this year, this manufacture self-winding movement replaces the venerable Calibre 2385 that had powered the brand’s compact chronographs for nearly thirty years. This new movement integrates a column wheel and a patented vertical clutch, a device optimised to offer greater smoothness when triggering chronograph functions.
Beating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), the Calibre 6401 ensures a comfortable power reserve of 55 hours. The internal architecture has been redesigned: the hour counter is now positioned at 3 o’clock and the minute counter at 9 o’clock, improving the overall symmetry of the dial. For the first time on this generation of 38 mm chronographs, a sapphire caseback allows for the admiration of the gears and the superb 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight.
Audemars Piguet and Serena Williams: a historic alliance
A creative alliance of more than ten years
The privileged relationship between Serena Williams and Audemars Piguet dates back to 2014. Often seen on the courts or red carpets with various models, the champion today takes a new step by co-creating a model in her name. This watch expresses her personal vision of femininity: a harmonious coexistence between physical power, embodied by the robustness of ceramic, and inner softness, symbolised by the reflections of mother-of-pearl. This chronograph fits perfectly into the trend for high-end sports watches with strong personalities, appealing to a clientele seeking exclusive pieces combining historical legitimacy and contemporary design.
The titanium sapphire caseback bears the engraved inscription “Limited Edition”, a reminder of the rarity of this piece produced in only 500 copies worldwide. With this timepiece, Audemars Piguet confirms its status as a pioneer in the use of alternative materials and demonstrates its ability to forge deep partnerships, where the ambassador actively participates in the brand’s stylistic evolution.
