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.

Watch is in good condition overall. Gold ring under the crystal has a break near the 2 o'clock index. Minute hand has some loss of the luminous material. Light scratches present throughout the case and bracelet, consistent with average usage. Bracelet has moderate stretch. Currently sized to fit a 7.25" wrist, and has 4 removable links.

As iconic as it gets, this Royal Oak's yellow gold construction, beautiful dial, and comfortable fit on the wrist have set it up nicely to fit into whatever watch collection it finds itself in.