Rubens Barrichello Grand Prix Super-Star and Audemars Piguet
Posted by Joe Vangieri on May 12th, 2008
Audemars Piguet first unveiled its Royal Oak Offshore Rubens Barrichello chronograph in 2006, in tribute to the well-known Brazilian racing driver, showcasing the watch to the local and international press in the wonderful city of Istanbul.
The Turkish city provides the backdrop to Mr Barrichello’s latest achievement, in 2008, as he breaks the record for the most Grand Prix entries. Audemars Piguet has designed an exclusive timepiece to celebrate its ambassador’s outstanding career.
Brazilian champion Rubens Barrichello has been competing successfully on Formula One race tracks since 1993. Ranked five times among the top five in the world championship, including two runner-up titles in 2002 and 2004, 61 podium finishes, 510 points, nine wins and 13 pole positions, the Brazilian champion has had a remarkable career. His latest achievement is to break the record for the most F1 Grand Prix entries, a title held for the past 14 years by Riccardo Patrese, with 256 races. The Istanbul Grand prix, on May 11th, will mark the 257th start of Rubens Barrichello’s career.
Henri Meylan, Brand CEO: “His generosity, approachability and kindness are universally acclaimed by everyone who knows him. We wanted to express our admiration for Rubens in our own way, both in terms of his career and his human qualities. We are delighted to show our support and to have had him as one of our ambassadors since 2005.”
The exclusive timepiece made especially for the Brazilian champion is in keeping with the Royal Oak Offshore Rubens Barrichello collection, conveying its key qualities. The unique design draws on the world of motor racing to create a subtle blend of F1 finesse and fine watchmaking, featuring a bezel adorned with eight screws reminiscent of engine screws, a bezel joint in the image of a ventilated disc brake, strap attachments in the shape of pedals, a crown akin to a gear cog and pushpieces in the form of an air extractor. The exclusive watch also boasts a pink-gold case, boldly blended with titanium studs, pushpieces and crown protector. The watch back carries the inscription “R. Barrichello – 257 – New Grand Prix Record”, showing the Rubens Barrichello logo and name of the timepiece.
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