Audemars piguet royal oak

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is an iconic luxury watch, launched in 1972, famous for its bold stainless steel design and 'tapisserie' dial.

About this subject

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak was launched in 1972 as the first luxury sports watch in stainless steel, designed by the legendary Gerald Genta. Its creation revolutionized the watch industry by combining the robustness of a tool watch with the sophistication of high horology. The design, inspired by a diving helmet, features an octagonal bezel with eight exposed screws, an integrated bracelet, and the characteristic 'tapisserie' dial with a checkerboard pattern.

Technically, the original Royal Oak housed the ultra-thin automatic Caliber 2121 movement with date and water resistance to 50 meters. The case measured 39 mm in diameter, considered large at the time, and was among the first to use alternating polished and brushed finishes. The integrated bracelet, made of progressive links, became a design landmark that many manufacturers have tried to emulate.

Culturally, the Royal Oak transcended the watch world. It became a status symbol and a sign of refined taste, worn by celebrities such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, LeBron James, and Jay-Z. Its presence in films and pop culture reinforced its aura as an object of desire. In the collector's market, vintage models and limited editions achieve astronomical prices at auctions.

Trivia: the initial price was 3,000 Swiss francs, considered outrageous for a steel watch at the time. Only 1,000 units were produced in the first year. Today, the Royal Oak exists in numerous variations including rose gold, platinum, chronographs, and complications. The name 'Royal Oak' honors the British warship HMS Royal Oak, whose octagonal porthole inspired the bezel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak?

The Royal Oak was designed by Gerald Genta, a renowned Swiss watch designer, who conceived it in a single night.

What is the water resistance of the original Royal Oak?

The original 1972 model had a water resistance of 50 meters, suitable for daily wear and light swimming.

Why is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak so expensive?

The Royal Oak is expensive due to its iconic design, high-quality Swiss movement, noble materials (such as high-grade stainless steel), meticulous hand finishing, and the brand's exclusivity.