Audemars Piguet

• cal. 2003 SQ finely engraved manual-winding jeweled nickel lever movement, mono-metallic balance • skeletonized dial with engraved yellow gold steam boat • 18k yellow gold Royal Oak case and bezel secured by 8 screws, sapphire crystal case back secure by 8 screws • case, dial, movement, and bracelet signed • with 18k yellow gold integrated bracelet and folding clasp

Movement running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Dial and movement in good condition. Case has some discoloration to the case underneath the bezel. Bezel has some minor scuffs from normal wear. Bracelet has minor scuffs as well. Overall watch is in good condition but may require servicing in the near future.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

According to Audemars Piguet: Masterpieces of Classical Watchmaking, the origins of the Royal Oak name dates back to the English legend of King Charles II and his defeat at the Battle of Worcester in 1651. The story follows that King Charles II hid in the hollow of an Oak tree during the Battle and the tree later became known as the "Royal Oak".  In England, the Royal Oak became a symbol of protection, reliability, and strength.  

Later, three powerful British Navy ships between 1802 and 1914 bore the name Royal Oak. The ship depicted on the dial of the present lot, is one of the HMS Royal Oak naval ships. The Royal Oak wristwatch design was no doubt influenced by these nautical vessels,as the octagonal bezel secured by 8 screws resembles that of a ship porthole. 

For more information see Brunner, G.L., Pfeiffer-Belli, C. & Wehrli, M.K., Audemars Piguet Masterpieces of Classical Watchmaking, Munich, 1993, pp. 66-67.