Audemars Piguet

This Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, reference 5402ST, is presented on behalf of its first and only owner, Champion Race Driver, Hermano Da Silva Ramos.

Da Silva Ramos was born in Paris, France, and began his motor racing career at 21, driving an MG TC in the 1947 Interlagos Grand Prix in Brazil. His racing career gained momentum in 1953 when he began competing in sports car races in France with an Aston Martin DB2/4. Then, he competed in various sports car races, including the 1954 Le Mans 24-hour race, where he retired after 14 hours due to a rear axle failure. The same year, he also participated in the Tour de France Auto and the Rally of Morocco. In 1955, he won the Coupe de Montlhery and the Rally Sable-Solesmes. He also finished 5^th in the GT class of the Mille Miglia. In 1958, he won at Spa Francorchamps GT with a Ferrari 250 GT.

'Nano', as he was often known, competed in seven Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, debuting on 19 June 1955 and earning two championship points.

Following Kenneth McAlpine's death on the 8th of April 2023, he became the oldest living former Formula One driver. Additionally, he and Carlo Tomasi are among the last surviving participants of the 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Debuting in 1972, the Audemars Piguet reference 5402 is a true masterpiece. It is a highly coveted piece among collectors and is often considered the finest bracelet watch ever produced. At its release, the Royal Oak was the most expensive stainless steel watch ever made, costing more to manufacture than the brand’s gold dress wristwatches due to the extensive finishing work involved. Nicknamed 'Jumbo', its 39 mm case was considered large compared to the dress watches of the 1970s, which contributed to its initially slow sales.

Designed by Gerald Genta, the case features a groundbreaking design with an octagonal bezel secured by eight visible hexagonal screws, inspired by a deep-sea diving helmet. The watch also boasts Audemars Piguet’s signature Petite Tapisserie dial, to create a futuristic and unprecedented look. The legendary calibre 2121, once the thinnest automatic movement with a central rotor and date function, ensures the watch sits comfortably on the wrist. This calibre was used for nearly 50 years.

The 5402 is a must-have for any serious collection, representing the genesis of an icon that has influenced modern sports watch design across all brands and Audemars Piguet itself.

This lot, thanks to its prestigious provenance, perfectly embodies the strong connection between horology and sport cars and would be a substantial addition to the collection of a true connoisseur.