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.
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Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Extract from the Archives and Shop Warranty
Est. value range
$15,000 – $25,000
The Details
Brand
Audemars Piguet
Dimensions
33mm
Model
Royal Oak
Movement
Automatic cal. 2140
Reference
15000ST.OO.0789ST.06
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
1996
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch and extract from the archives
Dial Color
Blue
THE DIAL
Sporting a striking electric blue dial with the Royal Oak's signature 'Petite Tapisserie' engraved pattern, this example is truly stunning due to its depth and transformative capabilities as it evolves in various lights.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring the Royal Oak's famously large-wearing tonneau-shaped case with its integrated bracelet and octagonal bezel, the 33mm ref. 15000ST wears well on the wrist with its construction filling the wrist nicely.
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 overall excellent condition. Bezel and case are strong and have been previously polished- they show no major scratches or dings. Blue dial in excellent condition showing no visual flaws or damages. The bracelet has 21 links total, 7 of which are removable. There is little stretch.
Our Perspective
Blending a rather striking dial with an otherwise reserved 33mm case, this ref. 15000ST has the best of both worlds as it pops off the wrist with a level of understated elegance that few timepieces can emulate.
Sam Hines
Managing Director
