*Unpolished* 2003 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph (Ref. 25860ST) Blue "Kasparov" Dial W/ Papers

The reference 25860ST was Audemar Piguets first Royal Oak chronograph and the brands first departure from the traditional time only with date Royal Oak design. First introduced in 1997, the Audemar Piguet ref. 25860ST Royal Oak Chronograph holds the nickname the "Kasparov" after Garry Kasparov a Chess Grandmaster and activist is known for wearing this exact reference. A truly collectible and also undervalued watch, being the genisis of one of the most desired variants of the Royal Oak, the "Kasparov" ref. 25860ST has yet to reach its full potential.

First unveiled by Audemars Piguet in 1972 the Royal Oak ref. 5402, designed by Gerald Genta, was the most expensive steel watch ever made. The early 1970s was a time of great change within the watch industry. Audemars Piguet was shaking the standards by introducing a luxury watch in steel that was oversized and pushed the boundaries of the current design trends of the era. This risk had obviously paid off as the steel Royal Oak is the perfect balance between utilitarian function and timeless design. The case and bracelet are excellently finished, with angular, beveled, and polished edges. The polished screws, bezel, and case edge fantastically contrast with the brushed surface of the case and bracelet to make for one of the most intriguing watches to come out of the era.