Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet Year: Circa 1999 Reference No: 14800ST.O.0009.14 Movement No: 460’420 Case No: E12821, No. 1626 Model Name: Royal Oak Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 2225, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet deployant clasp Dimensions: 36mm diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed Accessories: Accompanied by Audemars Piguet warranty stamped Ragonli, S.A. DE C.V. dated 31st May 1999, instruction manual, extra dial and hands, additional crocodile strap, hang tag, outer packaging and fitted presentation box.
Catalogue Essay
Released in 1994, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 14800ST featuring a 36mm diameter case is the first from the collection to feature a leather strap. Exuding a differing appeal from its bracelet counterpart, the ref. 14800 were introduced in various metals including stainless steel, gold and two-tone examples with a selection of dials available. However, one of the most desirable out of them all is perhaps the “military dial” variant featuring a glossy black surface enhanced with oversized luminous numerals for enhanced legibility.
The present example Royal Oak ref. 14800ST with a military dial from circa 1999 is offered with its full set of accessories including an extra set of dial and hands.
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.