Lot #4771
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Day Date 26330ST Black Dial Stainless Steel
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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 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.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box
Est. value range
$25,000 – $35,000
The Details
Brand
Audemars Piguet
Dimensions
39mm
Model
Royal Oak
Movement
Automatic cal. 2325/2810
Reference
26330ST
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
Circa 1980s
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Offering a largely monochromatic aesthetic, this Royal Oak Day-Date 'Owl' features a black dial with silver subdial rings that combine to perfectly match the stainless steel construction that surrounds the display.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring one of the most iconic physical designs in watchmaking, the Royal Oak Day Date's octagonal 39mm case, integrated bracelet, mix of polished bevels and satin-brushed surfaces have ensured the ref. 26330ST wears wonderfully on the wrist and remains truly timeless.
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 steel case shows light surface scratches to the polished sections, while the case back displays light marks and retains well-defined engravings. The winding crown shows a few small nicks. The dial and hands remain near mint. It is fitted with a steel bracelet showing surface scratches and light play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 21 links, 5 of which are removable, and fits approximately a 7¼” wrist. Additionally, there are 2 links included. Comes with inner and outer boxes.
Our Perspective
As iconic as they come, the ref. 26330ST retains the original Royal Oak ref. 5402's 39mm case design, while loading the legendary timepiece with useful complications to boot.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
