Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet Year: 2019 Reference No: 15500ST Movement No: AG7'384 Case No: K42'051 Model Name: Royal Oak Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 4302, 32 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet bracelet, max length 200mm Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Dimensions: 41mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed Accessories: Accompanied by Audemars Piguet warranty card, product literature and presentation box.
Catalogue Essay
Released during the 2019 Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie, reference 15500 is one of the newest iterations of the iconic Royal Oak model, replacing reference 15400. Boasting an elegant 41 millimeter case, it houses the new in-house caliber 4302. Compared to its predecessor, the new caliber most notably has a longer power reserve function. Compared to the caliber 3120 which provided 60 hours, this version provides 70 hours.
This timepiece is offered with all its original accessories and preserved in pristine condition, displaying its original sharp and crisp finishes and bevels. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time that this model is being offered on the auction market.
A specialist in the manufacture of complications since it was established in 1881, Audemars Piguet never ceases to impress with a rich history of creating bold, even audacious, timepieces underpinned by traditional watchmaking at its finest. This Le Brassus-based Swiss manufacturer is one of only two major manufacturers still owned by the founding family. Since its earliest days, AP is considered a leader in the field of minute repeaters and grande complication pocket and wristwatches. The brand is devoted to preserving the history of watchmaking in the Vallée de Joux, showcased at their superb museum in Le Brassus.
Today, the brand is best known for its Royal Oak models, a revolutionary luxury sports watch launched in 1972. Other key models include early minute repeating wristwatches, vintage chronograph wristwatches, such as the oversized reference 5020, perpetual calendar watches and the Royal Oak Offshore, first introduced in 1993.