Introduction
A rare timepiece hailing from the 1960s, the Audemars Piguet ref. 5205 speaks to the popular design choices of its era regarding classical dress watch aesthetics thanks to its elegant and refined construction. A larger watch than normal at the time, the ref. 5205’s 35mm case is notable for its unusual C-Shape case, a signature characteristic of Gerald Genta, the prolific designer who worked with AP quite often at the time and went on to design the Royal Oak and plenty of other iconic watches. With its sunburst dial featuring a date function and elegant index hour markers, the ref. 5205’s design is wonderfully cohesive and totally functional. Powered by the automatic cal. K2072, the ref. 5205 is a thin watch that wears comfortably and easily, as was the fashion in the day and increasingly so in contemporary times, as the demand for thick watches wains and elegantly designed pieces like the ref. 5205 have become the norm.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$5,000 – $7,000
The Details
Brand
Audemars Piguet
Dimensions
35mm
Model
White Gold
Movement
Self-Winding Cal. K2072
Reference
5205
Bracelet
Leather Strap
Year
Circa 1960s
Condition
Very Good
Material
18k White Gold
Included
Watch Only
Dial Color
Silver
THE CASE
Famed for distinctive profile, the C-Shape case is identified by its barrel shape, short lugs and typically thin profile.
THE DIAL
Fitted with a sunburst silver dial, the example we have here features larger than normal index hour markers at 12, 6, and 9, which balance with the date aperture bringing a sense of symmetry to the overall aesthetic.
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
The overall condition is very good. Original silvered dial with white gold indexes is in excellent condition. Under certain conditions, there is an area of minor discoloration above the upper left side of the Audemars Piguet signature. Case appears to be untouched. Some surface abrasions can be seen throughout, particularly on the caseback. Strap and buckle are aftermarket and not produced by Audemars Piguet.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, an alternative leather strap to the existing exotic version, shall be provided.
Our Perspective
Featuring all of the hallmarks of 1960s horological design, the ref. 5205 that we have here is an elegantly balanced dress watch that packs a hefty punch of style with decorum and elegance.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
