Audemars Piguet

In the early 1970s, Audemars Piguet, like many other Swiss watchmakers, faced significant financial challenges due to the emergence of quartz watches from Japan, which triggered what is now known as "the quartz crisis." With sales plummeting and no clear solution in sight, Audemars Piguet realized in 1971 that without a major change, financial collapse was imminent. Upon receiving feedback from the Italian market indicating potential interest in a steel luxury watch, the company's management decided it was time for a radical shift, introducing something entirely new: a sporty yet elegant timepiece unlike anything seen before.

Enter Gérald Genta, the young Swiss industrial designer. Inspired by a traditional diver’s helmet, Genta crafted what would become the iconic Royal Oak. This revolutionary steel watch featured an octagonal-shaped bezel secured by eight visible hexagonal gold screws, a visible water resistance gasket, and a dial adorned with an exclusive petite tapisserie motif. Unveiled in 1972, the Royal Oak revolutionized the world of horology as the premier stainless steel luxury sports watch, boasting a seamlessly integrated bracelet.

Since its debut, the Royal Oak has remained a cornerstone of Audemars Piguet's collection, incorporating various complications over the years. The present example is a Royal Oak featuring a self-winding flying tourbillon, created specifically for the 50th anniversary of the Royal Oak in 2022. Housed in an elegant pink gold case with a smoked blue dial showcasing a grande tapisserie pattern, the movement also features a special gold rotor with a ‘50 Years’ logo, commemorating the iconic Royal Oak's half-century celebration. Sotheby’s is pleased to offer this impressive piece consigned directly by Sylvester Stallone.