T he Royal Oak was the first luxury sport watch. Years before other manufacturers, it opened the path to a new way of thinking in the traditional world of watchmaking. This visionary concept is the masterpiece of the designer Gerald Genta and contributed to saving the Swiss industry. Not all the Royal Oak are created equal. Perpetual calendar Royal Oaks are extremely exclusive and sought after by discerning collectors. With a unique size and a different movement, the elusive Reference 25800 is the most special Royal Oak featuring this complication. Sotheby’s is extremely pleased to present as a special single lot sale the only publicly known 25800 in white gold with an incredible bright yellow dial.
A History of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
- 1972
- 1983
- 1993
- 1996
- 1997
- 2002
- 2015
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1972Introduction of the first Royal Oak. The reference 5402. -
1983Presentation of the first Royal Oak Perpetual calendar: the reference 5554 (later renamed 25554). Offered to the public in 1984. -
1993Launch of the first Royal Oak offshore: the reference 25721ST.
Introduction of the leap year indication on the perpetual calendars (caliber 2120/2802). -
1996Launch of the reference 25800 Royal Oak perpetual calendar, not based on the cal. 2120 and offering a unique alternative to the standard 39mm size.
Introduction of the Offshore with colourful dials and matching leather strap.
Grand complication reference 25865 using the calibre 2885 with minute repeater, split-second chronograph and perpetual calendar. -
1997Introduction of the first Royal Oak Offshore with a perpetual calendar, the reference 25854BC. -
2002Introduction of the Royal Oak Concept to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Royal Oak. -
2015Introduction of the reference 26574 with a 41mm case and using the new caliber 5134 for a new perpetual calendar Royal Oak with week indicator.
