13 Audemars Piguet Iconic and Sought-After, Royal Oak Quartz, Wristwatch in Steel, With Lapis Lazuli Dial and Diamond Bezel, Reference 56346ST. With Extract from the Archives

Estimate: €15,000 –⁠ 30,000

Sold (Premium)€26,000

Model: Royal Oak
Reference: 56346ST
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
Year: 1994
Movement: Quartz
Caliber: 2612
Case N°: D51986, N° 2390
Movement N°: 409 093
Dimensions: 33 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
Accessories: Extract from the Archives

When hearing the name Audemars Piguet, thoughts immediately go to the legendary Royal Oak. Iconic as very few other models have been in the history of horology, it is the umpteenth creation of the immortal designer Gerald Genta. Launched at Baselworld in 1972, it represented a real novelty in the Audemars universe as it was the brand’s first true sporting pride. The lot offered here from the 90’s is in a very well-preserved original overall condition reference 56346ST, featuring the iconic characteristics a Royal Oak must have the octagonal bezel with 8 screws and 32 diamonds and the solid bracelet. Its remarkable conservation strikes at a first glance with no evident sign on both the bracelet and on the case. Under the flat sapphire crystal glass, a superb dial with an incredible deep blue lapis lazuli with diamond hour markers, gold hands and an aperture for the date at 3. Famous icon and aesthetically appealing, this watch is powered by a quartz movement as the testified by the very deep engraving on the back.