Additional Information KK-1 is a stand-up fighting sport that combines various types of martial arts such as karate, kickboxing, kung fu and Chinese martial arts. A number of K-1 fighting matches are being held worldwide today. With his nickname, 'Charismatic Rebel', Masato is, in both name and fact, a major K-1 fighter. Having started boxing at the age of 15 and kickboxing at 17, he became the first Japanese K-1 world champion in 2003. In the K-1 World Max 2008, he earned the World Champion title for the second time with his swift yet graceful fighting techniques and tenacity. As a two-time World Champion, Masato is, without a doubt, one of the top athletes in the world of extreme sports. Audemars Piguet Manufacture is launching Royal Oak Offshore Masato Chronograph Limited Edition to pay homage to his intense competitive spirit and inspiring performances.

In the second round of their fight in 2000, Masato knocked out France’s Murad Sari, who at the time was the I.S.K.A. (International Sports Karate Association) Champion and became the Welterweight World Champion. With this victory, he established an unassailable reputation as the pre-eminent martial artist in the sport.

In the final match of a tournament in 2003, Masato knocked out Albert Klaus of the Netherlands, who at the time was the defending champion and became the first Japanese champion of that tournament. Although he finished second in the same tournament in 2004 and 2007, he has earned reputation as the only Japanese fighter who can consistently contest formidable opponents. As a result of his success, he became the prime target amongst foreign fighters and his skills were subject to relentless scrutiny and analysis by his rivals. In 2008, after fighting in a tournament, which included a fierce extra game, he beat Ukranian Artur Kyshenko and won the World Champion title yet again. Despite his rather small-build (174cm height and 70kg weight), he continues to be an inspiration to a number of martial art fans with his commitment to competition.

His distinguished performance record is as follows: he won fifty-three matches (including 24 knockouts) and lost six. Only two of his bouts ended in a draw.

Audemars Piguet chose to produce a time piece for Masato because he is such an exemplary World Champion. Two models are available in the Royal Oak Offshore Masato Chronograph Limited Edition. With a large sized case of 42mm diameter in both models, 200 pieces are in stainless steel and 20 pieces in 18K gold with 341 pieces of brilliant-cut diamond (~5.86 carat) fully adorned on the case, bezel and lug. Masato models are available only on the Japanese market. The red color in Mega Tappisserie on the dial and inner bezel is inspired by the red corner that is given to a defending champion on the ring. As red is also the color of Masato’s cape that he wears when entering the ring, it also symbolizes Masato himself and most importantly, his commitment to remain a winner. At the same time, the color creates a dramatic contrast against the white hour and minute hand, chronograph’s 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter and black small second hand. On the 1 o’clock index, diamond-embedded number 3, Masato’s lucky number, is adorned. Having his lucky number there signifies his determination to always remain the position of No. 1. At the 2 o’clock index, the number 14 is adorned, since it is his wife’s favorite number. This shows that he is not only an outstanding martial artist, but is also a dedicated and loving family man.

The black alligator strap has red stitches that create a harmonious match to the inner bezel and the dial. It comes with a replaceable white rubber strap.

Five years have passed since Masato became a world champion. In an environment where new rivals constantly emerge, he continues to evolve as a fighter and earned the world’s highest rank yet again this year. Audemars Piguet identifies its value with Masato who keeps on striving and challenging. Masato is Audemars Piguet’s first Japanese ambassador.

Welcoming a martial artist as its ambassador is an unprecedented opportunity for Audemars Piguet. Royal Oak Offshore Masato Chronograph Limited Edition models have a crown symbol with Masato’s logo and engraved 'Royal Oak Offshore Limited Edition' on them. To further maximize their value, they are offered as a limited edition (200 / 20), with each watch having an engraved serial number. With his unparalleled talent, dedication and willpower, Masato offers his all during the three, intense minutes of a match, giving inspiration and excitement to the audience. Audemars Piguet is proud to introduce these limited editions that celebrate his exceptional commitment and performance.