Audemars Piguet - Geneva Watch Auction: TWO Geneva Saturday, November 7, 2015 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet
    Year: 1972
    Reference No: 5402 ST
    Movement No: 212'227
    Case No: 67'323, A323
    Model Name: Royal Oak, "A-Series"
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Automatic, cal. 2121, 36 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Audemars Piguet link bracelet
    Clasp/Buckle: Deployant clasp
    Dimensions: 39mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Audemars Piguet Certificate of Origin confirming original movement no. 127'607, furthermore confirming the original movement was later replaced in 1980 by Audemars Piguet with movement no. 212'227, and presentation box

  • Catalogue Essay

    One of Gerald Genta’s most iconic designs still in production today is Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak, first introduced to the market in 1972, four years prior to Patek Philippe’s launch of the celebrated Nautilus, also designed by Genta.

    Audemars Piguet’s reference 5402ST to collectors is often referred to as the so-called “A-Series” or “Jumbo”. Housed inside is a version of the beloved Jaeger LeCoultre 920 movement, the ultra-thin AP caliber 2121. The A-Series is distinguished by the placement of the “AP” logo above 6 o’clock, compared to later examples typically bearing the “AP” logo at 12 o’clock. The dial is fitted with a dark honeycomb dial, aperture for date at 3 o’clock and luminous white gold hands and hour markers.

    When Audemars Piguet launched the Royal Oak, it was the most expensive stainless steel watch ever made at that time. Interestingly enough, the Royal Oak encased in stainless steel cost more money for the company to produce than their white gold dress watches. So ground-breaking was its concept, Audemars Piguet's competitors thought the watch would bankrupt the company. Of course, today, the Royal Oak is a design icon, accounting for over 70% of the brand's sales today. The overall design of this beloved timepiece is sporty, yet elegant and today is arguably the brand's most recognizable wristwatch.

    The present example is number 323, indicating that it was the 323rd Royal Oak produced. Adding to the collectibility of this piece, the watch is presented with the presentation box and Audemars Piguet Certificate of Origin.

  • Artist Biography

    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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230

Ref. 5402 ST
A very rare and attractive stainless steel wristwatch with date and bracelet, accompanied by presentation box and certificate

1972
39mm. Diameter
Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed

Estimate
CHF12,000 - 18,000 

Sold for CHF31,250

Contact Specialist
Nathalie Monbaron
+41 22 317 81 83

Geneva Watch Auction: TWO

Geneva Auction 7 & 8 November 2015 6:30pm