There’s definitely something fulfilling about owning a watch from one of the world’s most iconic brands. And if it’s an AP all gold watch, it’s all smiles and nothing less than desirable. Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak is no stranger to watch lovers. The Royal Oak first made its appearance in 1972, as the world’s first luxury sports watch. It was imposing, yet impressively thin; and, despite being the most expensive watch of its type on the market, it was available only in stainless steel.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 1972 in stainless steel
It was only in 1977, when the first yellow gold 39 mm Royal Oak became available, bringing a whole new character to what would soon be regarded as an iconic design. This year to celebrate the 40th anniversary, of the first precious metal Royal Oaks, Audemars Piguet has created a new series of Extra-Thin versions called ‘Jumbo’ in yellow gold featuring the brands iconic Petite Tapisserie hand guilloche dial. Jumbo because the new ‘Extra Thin’ is a true, and we mean ‘true’ re-issue of a classic from ground up.
DIAL
Offered in a classic blue and vintage-inspired champagne dial, both these versions pay tribute to Audemars Piguet’s original Royal Oak Model of the 1970’s. What you have here is the brands’ iconic Petite Tapisserie hand guilloche dial with the AP logo still at 6 o clock. The hour markers are in yellow gold and the Royal Oak hands are with luminescent coating.
L-R: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Extra Thin Ref. 15202BA.OO.1240BA.02 and Ref. 15202BA.OO.1240BA.01
MOVEMENT
Even the movement here is similar to the original version; only this time Audemars Piguet has designed Caliber 2121 to a much higher standard featuring a 40 hour power reserve. The workings are easily visible through the glare-proofed sapphire crystal case back.
CASE
The two versions are presented in a 39mm 18-carat yellow gold case. In terms of thickness, the Royal Oak Extra Thin is 8.1mm, giving it that extra-thin / slender profile. The “tank tread” 18k yellow gold integrated bracelet with folding clasp; enriches the overall appeal.
PRICE IN AUSTRALIAN DOLLARS
Price of the new Audemars Piguet Extra-Thin in Australia
Ref. 15202BA.OO.1240BA.01 (blue dial) – RRP AUD $72,700
Ref. 15202BA.OO.1240BA.02 (yellow-gold dial) – RRP AUD $72,700