Audemars Piguet 'Royal Oak' 148400R

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 'Ruby'

The Royal Oak is by far one of the most iconic models from Audemars Piguet. The Royal Oak collection was first introduced in 1972 at the Swiss Swatch Show, which would later become known as Baselword. The Royal Oak was released during the rising concern among Swiss luxury watch manufacturers about ‘Quartz’ technology, a bold move, but a forever changing one for the company.  

Probably the most famous person in the world of watches, Gerald Genta, got approached by Audemars Piguet to design the Royal Oak in 1970. The Royal Oak is widely recognised as the world’s first luxury sports watch and is distinguished by its iconic design features. The characteristics of the Royal Oak aren’t only unique, but they have paved the way for many other luxury sports watches. Therefore the Royal Oak is seen as a true icon. The first Royal Oak was the Royal Oak Ref.5402ST, which featured a 39mm case crafted in stainless steel.

Now, the Royal Oak collection offers a wide variety of different configurations. The variety in a model is exactly what makes it interesting and therefore collectible. This particular example isn’t a ‘normal’ one.  

This Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 14840R is one of the sub references of the (36mm) mid-size Royal Oak. Over the limited years of production there has been less than a dozen variations of this gemset AP offered to the market. This particular one is crafted in 18K Rose Gold which blends perfectly with the rubies in the bezel. The rubies aren’t only complimenting the bezel, but the dial as well, which is also pave set with diamonds. The craftsmanship speaks for itself.

It’s a true pleasure to source these unique pieces, because we know that we won’t find something like this again anytime soon.