Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet Year: Circa 1999 Reference No: 14790 Case No: No. 975 Model Name: Royal Oak Material: 18K yellow gold and stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 2225, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap: 18K yellow gold and stainless steel Audemars Piguet bracelet, max length 180mm Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet deployant clasp Dimensions: 36mm diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed
Catalogue Essay
Launched in the late 1980’s the ref. 14790 is a smaller iteration of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. The model was available in various case materials and dial colors as well as examples with two-tone cases. The present example in two-tone 18K yellow gold and stainless steel fitted with a matching grey dial with gold date wheel is offered in overall attractive condition.
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.