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.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Audemars Piguet
Dimensions
33mm
Model
Royal Oak
Movement
Quartz
Reference
56303ST
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
Circa 1987-1994
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
Condition
Watch is in excellent overall condition. There is only minor wear and scratches evident. Tritium dial and hands have a matching tone. Bracelet has 18 links, 4 of which are removable. There are 4 extra links on the side.
Our Perspective
With the current popularity of the Royal Oak, it can be quite difficult to find one in a moderate price range. The ref. 56303 is not one to overlook. Although measuring at 33mm, it does not wear small, especially if one is accustomed to vintage pieces. A fair comparison in size would be the Rolex Air-King model.