Introduced in 1972, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak marked a pivotal moment in horological history as the world’s first stainless steel luxury sports watch featuring an integrated bracelet. Conceived overnight by renowned designer Gerald Genta, it not only shattered conventional norms but also set a new benchmark for luxury in stainless steel. Notably, its octagonal bezel, secured by eight hexagonal white gold screws, accentuated its maritime allure. Although revered today as a horological icon, its launch was more than a mere gamble; it heralded a visionary revolution, laying the foundation for the contemporary dominance of luxury steel sports watches.

Distinguished by its black dial, devoid of the customary tapisserie motif but embellished with refined diamond markers and prominently displaying the royal "Khanjar" daggers at 6 o’clock, the present reference 5402 stands apart from regular production models. Records indicate that in the spring of 1973, Audemars Piguet ordered a batch of six dials without the tapisserie motif, featuring diamond-set indexes and an emblem at 6 o'clock. His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said of Oman, well known as an avid collector and aficionado of horology, frequently commissioned timepieces from esteemed manufactures to bestow upon loyal friends and foreign dignitaries. Assuming the throne on July 23, 1970, this makes the present watch likely one of the earliest gifts bestowed during his reign.

Offered in impeccable condition, the present "A Series" example stands out as one of the mere handful known to bear the prestigious Khanjar emblem, having been commissioned by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said of Oman. Combined with the original steel Jumbo case, it is the perfect watch for those seeking an iconic A-series Royal Oak with an extraordinary dial