Launched in 1972, the Royal Oak reference 5402 was the world’s first stainless steel luxury sports watch with a fully integrated bracelet. Designed overnight in response to an urgent request for an ‘unprecedented steel watch’, it was at the same time the most expensive stainless steel watch ever made. Today the Royal Oak is a legend, accounting for over 70% of the brand’s sales. The brand sought famed designer Gerald Genta, who developed a brilliantly engineered, monobloc case, with a distinctively maritime feel, featuring an octagonal bezel secured by eight hexagonal, white gold screws, and a dial with tapisserie motif.

The present example was released in 2022 to honour the 50th Anniversary of this landmark line of wristwatches. The reference 26240 was the first Royal Oak chronograph to feature Audemars Piguet’s new in-house automatic caliber 4401 with flyback chronograph function. The dial symmetry, with equally sized subsidiary dials, and the date window closer to the dial edge is complimented by the lovely green khaki dial colour. The stainless steel case is a robust 41mm diameter, and has a lovely appeal and bold look on the wrist.

This brand new watch is consigned by the original owner and offered complete with its accessories. As a coveted 50th anniversary timepiece, it is a wonderful tribute to the historic Royal Oak collection.

All proceeds exceeding the cost for the consignor will be donated to charities supporting access to medical care for families in need and orphanages.

CONSIGNED BY THE ORIGINAL OWNER