253 Audemars Piguet Very Elegant and Tasteful Early Royal Oak Quantieme Perpetual Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 25654 ST, With White Dial and Extract from the Archives

Estimate: € 100,000 –⁠ 200,000

Sold € 130,000

Model: Royal Oak Quantieme Perpetuel
Reference: 25654ST.OO.0944ST.01
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
Year: 1987
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 2120/2800
Case N°: N°183, C-19676
Movement N°: 274747
Dimensions: 39 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case
Accessories: Extract from the Archives

The Royal Oak is undoubtedly the most iconic watch ever produced by Audemars Piguet, and is the result of the studies and projects of the great watchmaker Gerald Genta, also designer of the Patek Philippe Nautilus and of the Cartier Pasha. Firstly launched in 1972, 10 years later was presented a version with perpetual calendar, something very unusual on a sporty watch such is the Royal Oak. The present lot, reference 25654ST, in absolutely stunning condition was in production between 1982 and 1993 and made in only 272 pieces in steel. This very specimen is the number 183, produced in 1989 and strikes for its quality and beauty. The solid steel bracelet is linked to a very charming case with the iconic octagonal bezel with 8 screws. It is powered by the caliber 2120/2800, base on the previous 2120: it was launched in 1977 making it the world’s slimmest perpetual calendar movement with a thickness of only 3.95mm. The subsequent years were used in finalizing the development and finally in 1982 equipped on the present watch. With a silvered dial, applied baton indexes and 4 subsidiary dials for date and moon phase, the distinctive design of this watch has now become extremely sought after and recognizable and the present lot with its sporty look is perfect for every occasion.