Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet Year: Circa 2014 Reference No: 15202ST Case No: No. 4794, I13742 Model Name: Royal Oak Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 2121, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet bracelet, max overall length 200mm Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet double deployant clasp Dimensions: 39mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement, and clasp signed. Accessories: Accompanied by Audemars Piguet Warranty dated July 24, 2014, Audemars Piguet presentation box, Timepiece Life & Care card, product literature, and outer packaging.
Catalogue Essay
Launched in 1972, the Royal Oak reference 5402 was the world’s first stainless steel luxury sports watch with a fully integrated bracelet. Designed overnight in response to an urgent request for an ‘unprecedented steel watch’, it was at the same time the most expensive stainless steel watch ever made.
The present example is a modern representative of this landmark line of wristwatches. The reference 15202 was launched in 2000, and then updated in 2012 in celebration of the model’s 40th anniversary. It is powered by the same legendary caliber 2121 as the original, however this time, contrary to the original model, can be admired through the sapphire caseback. The present example is part of the early run of 15202s launched for the 40th anniversary, and accordingly, differs subtly from later production pieces. Namely, the rehaut is more curved than newer examples and the dial less metallic. Collectors consider the reference 15202 as the modern version of the original “Jumbo” Royal Oak as it shares so many attributes with regards to case size, movement and overall looks to the now iconic reference 5402.
With 2022 being the 50th anniversary of its launch, the Royal Oak "Jumbo" is certainly one of the most popular and sought after timepieces. Adding to the attraction of this lot, this now discontinued modern ref. 15202 “Jumbo” is accompanied by its original warranty dated 2014, paperwork, and presentation boxes. It is preserved in excellent overall condition, and presents a wonderful opportunity to own one of these iconic timepieces.
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.
