1980's Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 18K YG (Ref. 5402)

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 5402 was first unveiled by Audemars Piguet in 1972 and was designed by Gerald Genta, who is also known for creating the just as famous Patek Philippe Nautilus. When the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak first became available it was the most expensive steel watch ever made. Most of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 5402 references of this era were made in steel making this example in gold even more sought after and rare than its stainless steel counterparts.

Additionally, the AP reference 5402 Royal Oak is often referred to as ‘Jumbo,’ on account of its relatively large size for the period measuring in at 39mm. Although 39mm in diameter may have been considered oversized for the era, the case thickness is only 7mm thick. The Royal Oak case is a beautiful twist of perspectives and size.

The early 1970s was a time of significant change within the watch industry. Audemars Piguet was shaking the standards by introducing a luxury watch in steel what was oversized and pushed the boundaries of the current design trends of the era. This risk paid off as the steel; Royal Oak is the perfect balance between practical 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. Early examples are becoming increasingly harder and harder to find as collectors have been holding onto them, additionally finding a model in an excellent condition such as this example we are featuring here at Craft & Tailored is near next to impossible. This would make a stunning addition to any collection and would transition between the most formal of occasions to the most casual of settings!