Transforming a sports watch into a luxury item: The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
When it comes to luxury watches, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is a true classic. It’s an iconic sports watch that was first introduced in 1972, and it’s been a mainstay in the world of high-end timepieces ever since. This unique watch is known for its rugged yet sophisticated design, and it has become a symbol of status and style for watch enthusiasts around the world.
Originally designed by Gérald Genta, the Royal Oak’s distinctive features reflect the port holes of a ship, which are incorporated into the watch face as a notable octagonal bezel. Its success led to Audemars Piguet Royal becoming one of the first luxury watchmakers to introduce stainless steel into their timepieces. The Royal Oak’s design has been refined over the years, but it still retains its bold and daring character.
The watch’s luxurious reputation has been further elevated by its use of precious metals such as gold, rose gold, and platinum. Not every sports watch translates well to precious metal, but this watch was built for it. Its unique features are made even more elegant with the use of precious metals in select models. And there’s an option for those who prefer something else: steel timepieces are also available for those wanting a less flashy design.
Key characteristics of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is a watch that’s known for its unique features and characteristics. Here are some of the key things that make the watch so special:
- Octagonal bezel with eight hexagonal screws
- Tapisserie dial pattern that is not only seen in various versions but also emulated by other watchmakers.
- Integrated bracelet with an intricate design that reflects the watch’s sporty origins
- Powered by a mechanical movement that is highly regarded in the watchmaking industry
- Water resistant to a depth of 50 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear
- Available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, gold, rose gold & platinum.
- A variety of options exist for buyers at different price points — from the basic models to full-blown complicated timepieces.
Where to buy an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
If you’re in the market for an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, there are a number of authorized dealers that you can turn to. Some of the biggest authorized retailers include Watches of Switzerland and Tourneau.
It’s important to note that this is a high-end timepiece, and prices can vary significantly depending on the specific model and the materials used. Expect to pay at least a few thousand dollars for a basic Royal Oak in steel, well into six figures for some platinum or complicated models.
Final thoughts
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is a watch that combines the best of both worlds: It’s rugged and sporty, but also elegant and sophisticated. With its iconic design, high-end materials, and renowned Swiss craftsmanship, it’s no wonder that the Royal Oak is one of the most popular luxury watches in the world.
Whether you’re an avid watch collector or someone looking for a unique timepiece to add to your collection, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is definitely worth considering. With its timeless design and impeccable quality, this watch is sure to be a valuable addition to any collection.
