Nicknamed the “Owl”, before the release of reference 25594 in 1984, reference 5594 served as a trial model, produced for less than a year, featuring a sleek 36mm case with a calendar function that indicates the day, date and moon phases.

While the majority of references 5594 and 25594 were made in stainless steel, only 24% were crafted in solid yellow gold. What makes this watch particularly intriguing is its non-luminous grey dial. According to the AP Chronicles, the first catalogue published in 1985 indicated that only the yellow gold ref. 5594 variant was devoid of luminous plots and hands. This means that the present early example from 1984 is among the few that is fitted with the rare non-luminous grey dial.

An exceptionally handsome timepiece, collectors have recently sought after early Royal Oaks, and this model is certainly a hidden gem. Practical yet retaining its iconic traits, further enhanced by its vintage appeal, the dial is well-preserved with minimal signs of aging. It features the signature petite tapisserie pattern and the older style logo seen on early Royal Oak models. Accompanied by an elegant integrated bracelet, it includes an early “blade” style folding clasp, typical of Royal Oak timepieces manufactured from 1972 to the mid-1980s. The French Owl hallmarks on the case, bracelet, and clasp indicate that the watch was imported into the French market prior to 1990.

Confirmed by its digital Extract from the Archives, this unusual dial combination in a yellow gold case is a rare and early find, making it a must-have for anyone seeking a neo-vintage, special Royal Oak from the 1980s.