Audemars Piguet Royal Oak A Series Ref 5402S

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is an icon. It is the original luxury sports watch that created and defined the category. Introduced at BaselWorld in 1972 after being designed by Gérald Genta, it turned the Swiss industry upside down and changed the fortunes of the struggling Audemars Piguet. It’s no surprise, that Patek Philippe hired Gerald Genta a few years later to introduce their own version of a steel luxury sports watch: the Nautilus.

The origin of the species is the Royal Oak reference 5402ST - nicknamed the “Jumbo”. It is no surprise that the A series examples are hotly hunted and desired by collectors around the world. Only a few seem come to market each year.

The watch should fit a wrist up slightly approximately 6.8 inches and features the original flip “Audemars Piguet” flip clasp (often replaced with the AP flip clasp) with the Gay Freres “GF” logo. The watch dates to circa 1972. The case measures 39mm in diameter (48mm lug to lug) and this is the original “Jumbo”. The case and bracelet have been lightly polished in the past like on the vast majority of these, but this case is still super attractive on the wrist. The hands appear to be service replacement or relumed.

This watch does not come with box and papers. The watch was recently serviced and is running well. For those hunting for an awesome A Series Royal Oak, do not sleep on this watch!

PRICE: $85,000 (SBUXYT4372)