Introduced in 1972, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is, without a doubt, one of the landmark wristwatch designs of the 20th century. Created during the depths of the quartz crisis, the most expensive steel watch ever offered to the public was believed by many to bankrupt the company. Over the past four decades, the Royal Oak has instead fueled the brand’s success to the extent of becoming the key product line of Audemars Piguet.

The present Royal Oak in 18-karat white gold is amongst the rarest variants of the original reference 5402 – the affectionately named “Jumbo”. Produced in very small quantities, this specimen is the 32nd example of only 149 believed to have been manufactured by the firm in white gold. Crafted out of solid 18-karat gold, its luxurious heft is dramatic, especially when compared to the regular production stainless steel versions. Measuring 39mm in diameter, its iconic octagonal bezel is secured with mirror-polished white gold hexagonal screws that provide attractive, eye-catching contrast to the brushed polished bezel. The surface of the black dial features a guilloché mini-“tapisserie” pattern – a texture resembling small square cobblestones which is found on all early Royal Oak dials. It is adorned with tasteful diamond hour markers whose unobtrusive presence manages to light up the dial without it feeling cumbersome. Presented in superb overall condition, the present lot is a rare opportunity for collectors of luxury sports watches.