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Property from an Important European Collector

816

Audemars Piguet

Ref. 25860ST

Royal Oak Chronograph “Kasparov”

An attractive and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with date, bracelet and presentation box

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The Royal Oak Chronograph reference 25860 was introduced by Audemars Piguet in 1997 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the first Royal Oak. Paying homage to the original “Jumbo”, it maintains the original dimensions with a diameter of 39mm. With expertise in creating ultra-thin watches at that period, Audemars Piguet achieved a remarkable feat by incorporating one of the thinnest self-winding chronograph movements of its time, the calibre 2385, into this watch.

The present example features a highly desirable blue dial, which is arguably the most popular color among collectors. While earlier production models were equipped with a "petite tapisserie" pattern on the dial, the current example showcases a "grand tapisserie" pattern, providing a larger and more contemporary aesthetic. The folding clasp has also been upgraded to the signature "AP" logo, a detail that is highly sought-after by collectors. Notably, this clasp design is no longer used in the current Royal Oak models, adding to its desirability.

Furthermore, this particular reference gained significant popularity because it was created as a tribute to the renowned chess Grandmaster Garry Kasparov. Kasparov wore this watch during his professional games and would always take it off his wrist before making his final winning moves. As an Audemars Piguet brand ambassador, the watch has been nicknamed "Kasparov" by collectors and has become a favorite among the Royal Oak Chronograph lineage.

The present watch has been serviced by Harrods in April 2019.

Audemars Piguet

Swiss | 1881

A specialist in the manufacture of complications since it was established in 1881, Audemars Piguet never ceases to impress with a rich history of creating bold, even audacious, timepieces underpinned by traditional watchmaking at its finest. This Le Brassus-based Swiss manufacturer is one of only two major manufacturers still owned by the founding family. Since its earliest days, AP is considered a leader in the field of minute repeaters and grande complication pocket and wristwatches. The brand is devoted to preserving the history of watchmaking in the Vallée de Joux, showcased at their superb museum in Le Brassus.


Today, the brand is best known for its Royal Oak models, a revolutionary luxury sports watch launched in 1972. Other key models include early minute repeating wristwatches, vintage chronograph wristwatches, such as the oversized reference 5020, perpetual calendar watches and the Royal Oak Offshore, first introduced in 1993.

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