159 Audemars Piguet A piece unique and extremely rare, Royal Oak, automatic chronograph wristwatch in white gold, with diamond bezel, hour markers, and center links, decorated case and bracelet, made by Watchcraft. With Extract from the Archives.

Estimate: € 40.000 –⁠ 80.000

• Model Royal Oak Chronograph Watchcraft
• Year 2003
• Reference 25966BC.ZZ.1185BC.01
• Case Material 18K white gold and diamonds
• Case Number Piece Unique, N°188, E65229
• Bracelet Material 18K white gold and diamonds Audemars Piguet bracelet, approximate length 180mm
• Movement Automatic, cal. 2385, 37 jewels
• Movement Number 530'526
• Dimension 39mm Diameter
• Signed Case, dial and movement
• Accessories Accompanied by copy of Audemars Piguet Extract from the Archives confirming the production of the preent timepiece on May 9th 2003.

In haute horlogerie, Audemars Piguet holds quiet authority, and few lines express its blend of sport and refinement as purely as the Royal Oak Chronograph. The reference 25966BC stands as a particularly elevated example—a 39 mm white gold chronograph uniting technical prowess with the architectural elegance of Gérald Genta’s 1972 icon.
The present example is distinguished by its compelling provenance, created as a unique piece for Watchcraft, as confirmed by the caseback engraving, and set apart by its distinctive decorative treatment. The reference 25966BC already combines the Royal Oak’s iconic octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet with the presence of white gold, here complemented by a white Grande Tapisserie dial that offers both rich texture and excellent clarity for the chronograph registers and date. Most striking are the engraved scrolling motifs on the case and bracelet, executed with remarkable depth and precision. Created for the Watchcraft commission, they soften the Royal Oak’s angular architecture with a fluid, almost baroque touch, underscoring Audemars Piguet’s mastery of métiers d’art.
The combination of meticulously finished white gold surfaces, the scintillation of diamonds, and the elaborate hand engraving elevates the reference 25966BC to something truly exceptional. In the context of Audemars Piguet’s chronograph offerings, this remarkable piece stands as a testament to the manufacture’s ability to blend athletic confidence, refined luxury, and bespoke artistry.