Audemars Piguet

*Unpolished* 1976 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak (Ref. 5402) "B Series" W/ Extract From The Archives

First unveiled by Audemars Piguet in 1972 and designed by Gerald Genta, who is also known for designing the also famous Patek Philippe Nautilus. When the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak first became available it was the most expensive steel watch ever made. The AP reference 5402 Royal Oak is often referred to as ‘Jumbo’, on account of its relatively noble size for the period at 39mm. Although 39mm in diameter may have been considered oversized for the era, the case thickness is only 7mm thick. 

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ref 5402 "C Series"

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 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. Early examples are becoming increasingly harder and harder to find as collectors have been holding onto them. This would make a stunning addition to any collection and would transition between the most formal of occasions to the most casual of settings.

Stock # APRO5402B
Brand Audemars Piguet
Style Royal Oak
Model 5402
Serial B1XXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Black Tapisserie
Millimeters 39
Strap Audemars Piguet Integrated Bracelet

 

CASE & BRACELET

The unpolished geometric case displays crisp lug holes with sharp factory finishing and chamfers that continue through the bracelet. The case and bracelet exhibit very minimal signs of previous use. The bezel is in original and unpolished condition as well and shows minimal signs of use. The case retains its original unsigned crown. The crystal does exhibit a small internal chip underneath the top left screw. The unpolished case back features its factory concentric brushing and all of its factory markings in crisp and clean condition. The integrated Audemars Piguet bracelet retains its original clasp that is stamped 1/76 and retains 21 links that show almost no stretch from use.

DIAL & HANDS

The original black tapisserie "logo down" dial is a work of art and is virtually immaculate showing no signs of aging or changing of color. The tritium lumed markers are in excellent condition with a charming patina and display no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The original hands have been professionally restored with tritium to accent the dial.

ACCESSORIES 

The watch comes with an Extract From The Archives along with an AP leather case. The watch is keeping time and functioning perfectly.