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Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak stands as a paragon of luxury watchmaking, blending impeccable craftsmanship with avant-garde design since its debut in 1972. Conceived by the legendary watch designer Gerald Genta, the Royal Oak revolutionized the luxury watch industry with its unique octagonal bezel secured by visible hexagonal screws, a testament to its nautical inspiration. This iconic timepiece, crafted from stainless steel—a material rarely used for luxury watches at the time—challenged traditional watch aesthetics and established a new standard for high-end timepieces. Its intricate "Tapisserie" patterned dial and integrated bracelet not only exemplify Audemars Piguet's commitment to excellence and innovation but also solidify the Royal Oak's status as a symbol of sophisticated elegance and technical mastery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak?

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The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is a luxury watch that became famous for its distinctive design and craftsmanship. Introduced in 1972, it was the first high-end sports watch made of stainless steel, celebrated for its unique octagonal bezel and "Tapisserie" patterned dial.

Who designed the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak?

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The Royal Oak was designed by Gerald Genta, a renowned Swiss watch designer. He created its iconic look overnight in 1971, introducing a design that would become a timeless classic in the watchmaking world.

Why is it called "Royal Oak"?

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The name "Royal Oak" comes from a series of eight Royal Navy ships bearing the name, which in turn were named after the legendary "Royal Oak" tree. This tree was where King Charles II of England hid to escape the Roundheads following the Battle of Worcester in 1651. The watch's octagonal shape is said to be inspired by the portholes of battleships.

What makes the Royal Oak so special?

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Apart from its groundbreaking design, the Royal Oak is special for its precision and high-quality craftsmanship. Its case is notoriously difficult to manufacture due to its angular shape and requires extensive hand-finishing. The watch also marked a new era in luxury watches, being made of steel yet priced like a gold watch, which was revolutionary at the time.

Has the Royal Oak design changed over the years?

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While the fundamental design elements of the Royal Oak have remained consistent, Audemars Piguet has introduced various models over the years. These include different sizes, materials (like gold and titanium), and complications, such as chronographs and perpetual calendars, ensuring the Royal Oak remains both timeless and contemporary.