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 the 39mm case retaining the proportions that have since earned this generation the "Jumbo Chronograph" nickname among collectors. The ref. 25960BC offered here is an exceptionally rare white gold execution dating to circa 2000, distinguished by its salmon Grande Tapisserie dial. The colour had first appeared on a limited Royal Oak created for the model's 20th anniversary in 1992 and was subsequently used sparingly, including on this white gold chronograph.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$80,000 – $120,000
The Details
Brand
Audemars Piguet
Dimensions
39mm
Model
Royal Oak Chronograph
Movement
Automatic cal. 2385
Reference
25960BC
Bracelet
18K white gold Royal Oak bracelet
Year
Circa 2000
Condition
Excellent
Material
18K White Gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Salmon
THE DIAL
The salmon Grande Tapisserie dial is an exceptionally rare execution of the early Royal Oak Chronograph, pairing the collection's signature textured surface with three recessed chronograph registers and a discreet date aperture between 4 and 5 o'clock. Against the cool tone of the white gold case and bracelet, the warm salmon finish gives this ref. 25960BC a particularly distinctive appearance.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Executed entirely in 18K white gold, the 39mm case and integrated bracelet retain the alternating brushed and polished surfaces central to Gérald Genta's original Royal Oak design. The precious-metal construction gives the watch considerable physical heft while remaining visually far more discreet than its yellow or pink gold counterparts.
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 white gold case shows surface scratches and small nicks. 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 near-mint condition. The 18K white 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.
Our Perspective
White gold Royal Oaks have always possessed a particular appeal: the weight and luxury of precious metal without immediately advertising it on the wrist. Combine that with the exceptionally rare salmon dial and an early case numbered 005, and the ref. 25960BC becomes something considerably more special. It is a wonderfully discreet example from the formative years of the Royal Oak Chronograph and one of the more unusual configurations of the classic 39mm generation.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
