269 Audemars Piguet Highly Rare and Iconic, Royal Oak “Jumbo”, Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Black Petite Tapisserie and Diamond-set Dial, With Service, Reference 5402BA

Estimate: € 50,000 –⁠ 100,000

Sold € 87,100

Model: Royal Oak
Reference: 5402BA
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1979
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 2121-1
Case N°: N°414, B34740
Movement N°: 197984
Dimensions: 39 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Service

Designed in a single night by the renowned Gérald Genta, the inaugural Royal Oak model made its debut in 1972 at the Basel Fair, marking the culmination of two years of meticulous development. This exceptional timepiece revolutionized the perception of steel in the realm of luxury watches. By introducing the concept of “casual chic,” it inscribed a new chapter in the annals of Audemars Piguet and Haute Horlogerie. In 1977, the Royal Oak ventured into the realm of precious materials, including yellow gold, white gold, and two-tone varieties. Among these, the Royal Oak 5402, designated with the letters BA for yellow gold, was introduced in 1977 and produced in 736 units, available for purchase from 1977 to 1990. Boasting various dial variants, some adorned with gems, this model has become a collector’s dream, with certain variations being particularly rare. The showcased 5402BA, bearing the serial B and crafted in 1979, stands as an exemplary piece. The bracelet and clasp are nicely preserved, showcasing their enduring quality. The back retains the crisp engraving of the 414 number, attesting to the watch’s overall condition. The case, along with the distinctive bezel, maintains its great proportions and exudes timeless elegance. While the dial has begun to undergo tropicalization, adding a unique character, the guilloche mini-"tapisserie” pattern— a texture characteristic of early Royal Oak dials—remains well-defined. Enhancing its allure, the dial features the rare variant of 11 brilliant-cut diamonds indexes, with the iconic AP logo gracing the 12 o’clock position and a discreet date window at 3 o’clock. This offering represents a sumptuous example of one of the most revered models ever produced, showcasing the enduring appeal and timeless design of the Royal Oak.