1076
Audemars Piguet
Ref. 5402ST
Royal Oak “A Series”
An early, attractive and well-preserved stainless steel wristwatch with date, Gay Frères bracelet, guarantee and presentation box
Full-Cataloguing
- First generation “A series”
- Signature Tapisserie dial paired with white gold hands
- Original Gay Frères bracelet
- Accompanied by a blank certificate and presentation box
The reference 5402 enjoyed a 25-year production run, with a total of 6,050 pieces produced across four distinct series: A, B, C and D, each defined by subtle design variations. The present example belongs to the premier "A Series"—the very first generation—as confirmed by the individual caseback engraving "A 409". The defining feature of this early iteration is the placement of the applied "AP" logo above 6 o'clock on the Tapisserie dial, which was later moved to the 12 o'clock position in subsequent series.
Powering the watch is the ultra-thin automatic cal. 2121, derived from the Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 920, which would later power Patek Philippe's Nautilus. Crucially, this timepiece is fitted with its original Gay Frères bracelet from the initial 1972 production batch, stamped "1.72" alongside the iconic chamois head hallmark framed by "G" and "F". The Gay Frères signature was later replaced by Audemars Piguet branding around 1975, making this early bracelet an exceptionally desirable detail.
Offered by a Japanese collector, this "A Series" Royal Oak is preserved in impressive overall condition and is accompanied by a Japanese blank certificate and presentation box. Representing a pivotal chapter in Audemars Piguet's heritage, this lot offers connoisseurs a rare opportunity to acquire a true cornerstone of modern horological history.
Audemars Piguet
Swiss | 1881A 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.