Introduction
When Audemars Piguet introduced the Royal Oak in 1972, Gérald Genta's radical combination of an octagonal bezel, exposed screws and integrated bracelet fundamentally changed the perception of the luxury sports watch. The design proved remarkably adaptable, eventually providing the foundation for everything from perpetual calendars to chronographs while retaining the unmistakable architecture of the original.
The Royal Oak Chronograph arrived in 1997 to celebrate the collection's 25th anniversary, with its 39mm case retaining the proportions that have since earned this generation the “Jumbo Chronograph” nickname among collectors. The ref. 25960BA translates that design into 18K yellow gold, pairing the substantial precious-metal case and integrated bracelet with a crisp white Grande Tapisserie dial. Compared with the more unusual coloured dials found within the family, this configuration is classically Royal Oak: the warmth and weight of yellow gold balanced by a clean, highly legible dial and the compact proportions of the original chronograph generation.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box, warranty, booklets and hangtag
Est. value range
$40,000 – $60,000
The Details
Brand
Audemars Piguet
Dimensions
39mm
Model
Royal Oak Chronograph
Movement
Automatic Audemars Piguet calibre 2385
Reference
25960BA
Bracelet
18K yellow gold Royal Oak bracelet
Year
Circa 2000
Condition
Excellent
Material
18K Yellow Gold
Included
Box, warranty, booklets and hangtag
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
The white Grande Tapisserie dial provides a clean counterpoint to the richness of the yellow gold case and bracelet. Applied gold hour markers and matching hands sit above the signature textured surface, with three recessed chronograph registers and a discreet date aperture between 4 and 5 o'clock completing the balanced early Royal Oak Chronograph layout.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Executed entirely in 18K yellow gold, the 39mm case and integrated bracelet retain the alternating brushed and polished surfaces fundamental to Gérald Genta's Royal Oak design. The precious-metal construction gives the watch considerable physical presence, while the relatively compact case preserves the proportions and elegance that distinguish this first generation of Royal Oak Chronographs.
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. The 18K yellow gold case shows surface scratches and marks, with some small nicks to the bezel edge and a light patina across the case. The rear of the case retains crisp hallmarks, while the case back has well-defined engravings. The pushers and winding crown are in excellent condition, with some light surface marks. The dial and hands are in excellent condition. The 18K yellow gold bracelet shows surface marks and light wear to the AP clasp. The bracelet is fitted with 18 links and fits approximately a 7” wrist. There are 4 spare links included. Comes with inner and outer boxes, warranty, booklets and hangtag.
Our Perspective
There is something particularly compelling about the original 39mm Royal Oak Chronograph in yellow gold. The material amplifies the Royal Oak's famously complex case and bracelet finishing, while the white Grande Tapisserie dial keeps the overall composition remarkably classical. As an early precious-metal execution of the Royal Oak Chronograph, the ref. 25960BA combines the proportions collectors increasingly appreciate with the unapologetic character of a fully yellow gold Royal Oak.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
