Audemars piguet royal oak

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is a luxury watch launched in 1972, known for its octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet, which revolutionized sports watchmaking.

About this subject

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak was introduced to the world in 1972, at a time when the watch industry was facing the quartz crisis. Designed by Gérald Genta in a single night, the model stood out for its bold design: an octagonal case with exposed screws and a textured dial called "Tapisserie". The integrated bracelet, made of stainless steel, was a novelty for luxury watches, which traditionally used leather or metal in more classic designs.

The name "Royal Oak" honors the British warship HMS Royal Oak and also refers to a royal oak tree where King Charles II hid. Initially met with skepticism due to its high price for a steel watch, it quickly became an icon of status and design. Water resistance to 50 meters and the ultra-thin automatic movement (caliber 2121) demonstrated Audemars Piguet's technical innovation.

Over the years, the Royal Oak expanded into various complications, including chronographs, tourbillons, and perpetual calendars. The Royal Oak Offshore line, launched in 1993, brought a larger and more robust version aimed at a younger audience. Genta's original design remains virtually unchanged, making it one of the few watches defining an era. The Royal Oak is frequently worn by celebrities and collectors, with vintage pieces achieving record prices at auctions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak?

The Royal Oak was designed by Swiss designer Gérald Genta in 1971, commissioned by Audemars Piguet. He created the sketch in a single night, inspired by a diver's helmet.

What movement is used in the original Royal Oak?

The original Royal Oak used caliber 2121, an ultra-thin automatic movement developed in partnership with Jaeger-LeCoultre. It had automatic winding and a thickness of only 3.05 mm.

Is the Royal Oak water-resistant?

Yes, the original Royal Oak had water resistance of 50 meters, thanks to its screw-down crown and gaskets. Modern versions like the Royal Oak Offshore can resist up to 100 meters.