IN THE
Loupe
Mighty Oak The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak may be the most famous watch you have never heard of. On its 50th anniversary, specialist Sarah Fergusson reveals why it remains one of the most sought-after timepieces in the world
T
o most outside the watch community, Audemars Piguet (AP) could seem to be somewhat of a dark horse, in the background while also being responsible for one of today’s ‘hype’ watches, as we often call them. Along with the Rolex Daytona and the Patek Philippe Nautilus, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is one of the three most famous, and sought-after, watches of the moment. The history of the Royal Oak, and of the Audemars Piguet brand, are fascinating. A look at these is very timely given that 2022 is the 50th anniversary year of the release of the Royal Oak, their most successful watch to date.
‘In 1972, they released a larger-cased (39mm) steel sports watch with a super slim movement, one that was more expensive than their staple gold watches. Gerald Genta (1931-2011) was the Swiss watch designer responsible’ 34 ANTIQUE COLLECTING
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak on sale this month is marked ‘A-1485’ to the caseback meaning it was the 1,485th watch of its type ever made, image courtesy of Lyon & Turnbull
