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155

Audemars Piguet

Ref. 5402ST

Royal Oak "A series"

A rare and attractive stainless steel wristwatch with tobacco "tropical" dial, date and bracelet

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Audemars Piguet's introduction of the Royal Oak marked the beginning of the luxury sports watch market we know today. Launched in 1972 at Basel Fair, it caused an immediate sensation as the watch industry had never seen anything comparable before. It was at the time the most expensive steel wristwatch available. It most notably housed the extra slim caliber 2121, which would later be found in the Nautilus wristwatch. Today, the Royal Oak remains as iconic as ever, with early examples being exceedingly popular and collectible.

Known as the "A Series", the present watch is among the first batch of Royal Oaks ever produced. It is most notably distinguished by its original condition, which is remarkable as many existing examples now have service parts. The "Swiss" signed dial has taken a "tropical" appearance over time, and the hands and markers have aged with warm patina. The bracelet with the "flat clasp" is original, as is the smooth unsigned crown, which is correct for the period.

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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