SIGNED AUDEMARS PIGUET, AUTOMATIC, ROYAL OAK A-SERIES MODEL, REF. 5402, NO. A 436, CASE NO. 67’436, MOVEMENT NO. 127’691, CIRCA 1972

In 1972, Audemars Piguet introduced the Royal Oak model in stainless steel. Designed by Gerald Genta, the watch featured an octagonal screwed bezel which was initially inspired by a ship's porthole. Audemars Piguet produced the Royal Oak in a series of 1000 watches, hoping that the model would appeal to customers of luxurious and limited edition watches. A second series of 1000 Royal Oak "A" serial numbers was produced before they progressed on to the "B" series, "C" series, and so on. The "A-series" dials, such as the presently offered watch, featured the AP logo above the 6 o'clock, and reads "Swiss" below the 6 o'clock.

This particular example is distinguished by its incredibly honest condition featuring with attractively patinated dial, luminous material that has aged to an appealing biscuit tone and strong case with sharp edges and fat bezels. The scratches throughout shows the well loved life that Royal Oak A436 has lived since its creation in 1972, and represents a great opportunity for a collector to acquire and continue the rich story of this watch.