Introduction
Released in 1972 and designed by Gerald Genta, watchmaking's most famous designer, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak was the first stainless steel luxury sports watch ever to exist. Released as a tactic to survive the quartz crisis, the Royal Oak can single-handedly be thanked for AP's existence today due to its astounding success, albeit it wasn't an overnight hit. Its sizeable tonneau-shaped case, signature integrated bracelet, octagonal bezel, exposed screws, and steel construction failed to win over collectors until a few years later. Today, the Royal Oak is one of the most highly-coveted timepieces in all horology as its previously dismissed design details have permeated across the industry and into watches like the Patek Philippe Nautilus, Vacheron Constantin Overseas, Rolex Oysterquartz, amongst many other legendary timepieces.
The 14790 Royal Oak is the first to be housed in a 36mm case. After experimentation with varying sizes ranging from 35-37.5mm, this became the standard dimensions used for mid-sized models to come.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$10,000 – $15,000
The Details
Brand
Audemars Piguet
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Royal Oak
Movement
Automatic cal. 2325
Reference
14790SA.OO.0789SA.01
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold and stainless steel bracelet
Year
Circa 1980s
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold and stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Grey
THE DIAL
Featuring the Royal Oak's standard 'Petite Tapisserie" and a stunning shade of grey, this example's dial serves as a reminder of just how well AP executes the finer details of their timepieces.
THE BRACELET
As one of the integral parts of the Royal Oak's aesthetic, its stunning three-piece link bracelet is wonderfully complemented by a two-tone construction with its large stainless steel links held together by two small 18k yellow gold links - as perfectly displayed by the ref. 14790's two-tone 36mm construction.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in excellent overall condition. Case has some minor wear, but the edges and chamfers are still sharp. The gold bezel has minimal surface marks with soft edges from wear. The dial is near-mint and does not exhibit typical oxidation. Luminous on hands and dial indexes match and are discolored. The bracelet has 21 links, 7 of which are removable. There is light stretch.
Our Perspective
I have always been a huge enthusiast of the mid-sized Royal Oaks, as they are not only exceptionally well priced, but also elegantly proportioned. This example features the grey dial, which undeniably gives it a modern twist. This particular variation has grown exponentially in my appreciation, as I feel it would also for both modern and vintage collectors alike.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
