Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

The methods of Audemars Piguet watchmaking were forever changed in 1972. Never before had a manufacturer of such luxurious esteem created a watch with steel casing. At a time when gold and platinum dominated the world of fine timepieces, the decision to produce a steel cased watch was a great risk to take. The courage paid off in the end as the Royal Oak became an exception to the rule and is today an icon that has forever changed the world of watch designs.

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Bestseller since 1972: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

The methods of Audemars Piguet watchmaking were forever changed in 1972. Never before had a manufacturer of such luxurious esteem created a watch with steel casing. At a time when gold and platinum dominated the world of fine timepieces, the decision to produce a steel cased watch was a great risk to take. The courage paid off in the end as the Royal Oak became an exception to the rule and is today an icon that has forever changed the world of watch designs.

Created by Gérald Genta

Since 1972: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

Manufacturers of mechanical watches became vulnerable to the rise of quartz watches in the 1970s. Watchmakers were seeking new and unique ideas that would appeal to the market. Audemars Piguet, a company that was founded in 1875, was at the head of the Swiss watchmaking industry at the time. However, it was also looking for fresh ideas to meet the wishes of clientele.

Audemars Piguet reached out to Swiss designer Gérald Genta for the creation of a new timepiece. Inspired by diving helmets, the design generated by Genta was simply revolutionary. The shape of the clock was unlike anything seen before – an octagonal bezel with six visible screws was reminiscent of maritime portholes. It is believed that the name “Royal oak” refers to the warships of the Royal Navy. With a diameter measuring 39-millimetres, the timepiece exudes a decidedly sporty composition. Furthermore, the watch is water resistant to 50 meters. A novelty in the world of traditional watchmaking, the timepiece is composed of a conventional stainless steel.

Then it was scandalous. Today it is simply legendary. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is now considered to be one of the most important watches in the history of watches and enjoys great recognition around the world.

Popular models

The Royal Oak Collection

The Royal Oak is now considered the flagship model of Audemars Piguet. Thanks to its distinctive shape, the timepiece enjoys an outstanding recognition value. Along with accurately displaying the time, the Royal Oak collection presents models that come equipped with complications and auxiliary functions. Here are some of the distinctive models at a glance.

Royal Oak Openworked Extra-Thin
In order to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Royal Oak in 2012, Audemars Piguet released a special edition limited to 40 units – the Royal Oak Openworked Extra-Thin. The timepiece embodies the sophistication of Haute Horlogerie while exhibiting interpretations of a modern design. The special edition surprises in luxurious Platinum and impresses with its unique concept.

Royal Oak Day & Date and Royal Oak Dual Time
A highly sought-after model from the Royal Oak series is the Royal Oak Day & Date, which legibly displays both the date and the day of the week. Furthermore, the dial of the Royal Oak Dual time displays a second time zone, incorporates a 24-hour display, and provides a power reserve indicator.

Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar
The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar is a successful masterpiece created by Audemars Piguet. The timepiece comes equipped with a perpetual calendar and does not only distinguish between the date and the day but also differentiates between normal years and leap years.

Royal Oak Equation of Time
The Royal Oak Equation of Time displays sunrise and sunset times and comes equipped with a perpetual calendar with astronomic moon.

Royal Oak Tourbillon
The Royal Oak Tourbillon is available in different versions including an extra-thin tourbillon that can optionally be fitted with a skeletonized or “Openworked” case through which the movement is visible. The latest version of the Royal Oak Tourbillon Chronograph delights with a manual wound movement and a central minute counter. Furthermore, the carbon concept of these models simply convinces clients worldwide.

Royal Oak Selfwinding
Exciting timepieces are offered for women with the Royal Oak Selfwinding model. The quartz movements are available for delicate ladies arms and are presented in a wide range of versions. Different materials are utilised in the women’s watches that are always distinguished by a sophisticated style.

A watch for every occasion and every taste

Timepieces by Audemars Piguet are bold in character and shine on many famous wrists. Since the Royal Oak is available in several versions, there is a perfect model to suit every occasion and every taste. Entrepreneur and artist Jay Z is a big fan of Audemars Piguet. The brand has launched a special edition in honour of the renowned celebrity. Further admirers of Audemars Piguet in the music scene include Trey Songz, Tinie Tempah, and LL Cool J. Ari Gold from the HBO series Entourage is seen sporting the Royal Oak Chronograph in classic silver. Evidently, the Royal Oak is also a popular luxury watch among successful athletes.

Leo Messi, LeBron James und Belén Mozo

Brand Ambassadors of the Royal Oak

40 years have passed since the introduction of the Royal Oak and yet these exclusive timepieces from Audemars Piguet remain a highly popular companion. In 2005, soccer ace Leo Messi was gifted A Royal Oak in celebration of the first league title of his Spanish Football Clubs. It was love at first sight as Messi began to rapidly expand his Royal Oak collection. The Argentinian soccer pro finally slipped into the role of brand ambassador for the traditional company in 2010 and launched his own limited edition line – the Leo Messi Chronograph Edition (Ref. 26325OL.OO.D005CR.01). Audemars Piguet has also cooperated with many prominent faces that represent the philosophy of the brand perfectly. Brand ambassadors include great athletes like basketball player LeBron James or the world's best golfer Belén Mozo.

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How to sell Audemars Piguet Royal Oak models at CHRONEXT

Perhaps, rather than looking to buy, you have an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model for sale – CHRONEXT is the place for you! We offer a comprehensive service based on years of experience. Simply fill out our short online form or contact us by phone or email. We would be happy to advise you and help you find the best possible deal for your Audemars Piguet Royal Oak.

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