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.
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Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Extract from the Archives
Est. value range
$20,000 – $30,000
The Details
Brand
Audemars Piguet
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Royal Oak
Movement
Automatic cal. 2325
Reference
14790ST
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
2000
Condition
Very good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch and Extract from the Archives
Dial Color
Blue
THE DIAL
Belonging to the Third Series, this particular example's blue dial features a shorter hour marker, a recessed Audemars Piguet signature, and an enlarged tapisserie.
THE CLASP
Particular to this series, the clasp features an elongated (or stretched) Audemars Piguet logo, which was a standard layout for AP bracelets for several years.
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. There is surface wear visible on the case, including scratches on the polished edges as well as some small marks and dings. Edges are still sharp and crisp, and the AP logo on the clasp is clean and well defined. Dial in near-mint condition showing no signs of degradation. Bracelet has 20 links, 6 removable and has some play.
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 blue dial, which undeniably gives it a contemporary feel. 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
