ROYAL OAK MODEL, REF. 56175PT, CASE NO. C79926, NO. 047, CIRCA 1988

The Audemars Piguet reference 56175 is a distinguished model within the celebrated Royal Oak collection. The reference, which debuted in the late 1980s with a 33 mm. case, offers a more subtle wrist presence than its larger counterparts while maintaining all the distinguishing features of the Royal Oak, including the recognizable octagonal bezel held in place by exposed screws, the integrated bracelet, and the striking angular architecture that has come to represent the original Gérald Genta design. The model was made in a variety of materials, such as bi-metal combinations, stainless steel, and yellow gold, giving collectors a range of ways to interpret the traditional Royal Oak style.

The present timepiece, however, stands apart as an exceptionally rare platinum version. The present timepiece has a smooth, plain dial set with 11 brilliant-cut diamond hour markers, which gives it a refined and subtly opulent appearance in contrast to the classic tapisserie dial typically associated with the Royal Oak.

The reference 56175 with quartz movement is a significant step in the development of the Royal Oak line, despite being frequently eclipsed by its mechanical counterparts. It demonstrated Audemars Piguet's ability to adapt its most iconic design to a wide range of tastes and technical approaches by providing collectors with the distinctive Royal Oak design language in a more condensed and adaptable format.