ROYAL OAK MODEL, REF. 14700ST, CASE NO. C82221, NO. 037, CIRCA 1990

The Royal Oak reference 14700 was produced for a very short period in the early 1990s as an alternative to the Royal Oak 'Jumbo' reference 5402, offering a reduced case size of 36 mm compared to 39 mm. This mid-size Royal Oak, like all Audemars Piguet models, maintains the iconic design codes that Gérald Genta initially envisioned: the integrated case and bracelet, the octagonal bezel fastened by visible screws, and the crisp interaction of polished bevels and brushed surfaces.

Similar to how Patek Philippe debuted the mid-size Nautilus with reference 3800, Audemars Piguet did the same with the Royal Oak. Positioned between the later reference 14790 and the earlier reference 4100, the reference 14700 is still a rather unknown and transitional model. It can be viewed as a simplified version of the original 5402, keeping important design elements like the 'Petite Tapisserie' dial and balanced overall dimensions.

The case provides a sophisticated reinterpretation of the Royal Oak's striking geometry, measuring 36 mm in diameter and just 7.8 mm in thickness. The present example keeps its original bracelet and deployant clasp, which bear the hallmark of the renowned bracelet manufacturer Gay Frères, who supplied both the Royal Oak and Nautilus during their early years. The reference 14700 sits close to the wrist and combines exceptional comfort with distinct elegance and character thanks to its remarkably slim profile and seamless integration.