![](data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" version="1.1" height="1600px" width="2400px"></svg>)
T he Audemars Piguet Royal Oak collection has long been emblematic of innovation and design, setting benchmarks in luxury horology. Among its most prestigious offerings are the Audemar Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon watches, which masterfully blend aesthetics with mechanical prowess. Below are five standout examples of these tourbillon watches that have been presented at Sotheby’s auctions, each with its unique attributes and historical significance.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept Reference 25980AI.OO.D003SU.01 was sold in June 2024 for 156,000 USD. The model was introduced in 2002 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the iconic Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Designed as a futuristic vision of the brand’s direction, the Royal Oak Concept watch was produced in a limited edition of just 150 pieces. This particular model is crafted with a 44mm case made of Alacrite 602, a specialized alloy renowned for its durability and typically used in aerospace and medical applications. This case material was unique to this model and was never utilized in any other watch.
The movement inside this watch, the caliber 2896, was developed by Renaud & Papi. It features a tourbillon escapement that was visible on the semi-skeletonized dial and included several additional complications, such as a power reserve indicator and a function selector display. The unique materials and innovative design elements made this Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept a significant collector's piece, with a technical sophistication that is as impressive as its rarity.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Reference 26730OR.OO.1320OR.01 was sold in June 2024 for 228,000 USD. In 2022, this Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model was originally released as part of the 50th anniversary celebration of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak collection. This watch was crafted in 18k pink gold and featured a smoked blue Grande Tapisserie dial that elegantly complements its precious metal case. Beneath the dial was the caliber 2950, a self-winding movement equipped with a flying tourbillon that showcases Audemars Piguet's expertise in watchmaking.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this particular piece is its provenance. This watch was consigned directly by renowned actor Sylvester Stallone, adding a layer of Hollywood glamour to its already remarkable pedigree. The combination of its connection to a major celebrity, its stunning design, and the significance of being part of the Audemar Piguet Royal Oak watch's 50th anniversary made this timepiece a treasure in the world of horology.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Reference 26522CE.OO.1225CE.01 was sold in December 2023 for 241,300 USD. Released in 2019, it was the brand’s third all-black ceramic Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model. Ceramic's rise in popularity could be attributed to its lightweight nature and increased resistance to scratches, and Audemars Piguet utilized a ceramic blend of zirconium oxide and yttrium oxide to craft this watch. The complex manufacturing process limited production, making ceramic watches like this one more exclusive and often more valuable.
The watch was powered by the manual-winding caliber 2924, which was housed in a 41mm case. The dial featured the unique Tapisserie Evolutive pattern, radiating asymmetrically from the tourbillon at six o'clock. Its remarkable condition and comprehensive set of original accessories, including the warranty card and presentation box, made AP Royal Oak a coveted item for any serious collector.
This Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Reference 26530ST.OO.1220ST.01 was sold in April 2023 for 1,651,000 HKD. It successfully showcased the Audemars Piguet brand's mastery in integrating the flying tourbillon into their timepieces. Initially appearing in the Code 11.59 collection, the flying tourbillon presented a stunning view of the mechanism unobstructed by the typical tourbillon bridge. This Royal Oak model’s 41mm stainless steel case housed a smoked blue dial with the striking Evolutive Tapisserie pattern, enhancing the depth and beauty of the tourbillon complication.
The stainless steel bracelet and blue dial paid homage to the original 1972 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, making this watch a modern embodiment of a classic design. The watch's meticulous craftsmanship, evident in the brushed surfaces and polished bevels, further cemented its status as an exemplary model within the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watch collection.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon Reference 26512ST.OO.1220ST.01 was sold in May 2022 for 201,600 CHF. Introduced in 2012, it exemplified the minimalist elegance for which Audemars Piguet is renowned. This model was limited to select Audemars Piguet boutiques and featured a stainless steel case with a black Petite Tapisserie dial, concealing the ultra-thin manual-winding caliber 2924. The tourbillon cage was prominently displayed at six o’clock, adding a focal point to the design.
This watch is notable for being one of the few manually wound Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watch models with a 70-hour power reserve. Its limited availability and excellent condition, accompanied by its original warranty and presentation case, made it a standout piece for collectors seeking a rare and refined example of the Audemars Piguet brand’s tourbillon craftsmanship.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon watches offered at Sotheby’s exemplify the brand's continuous pursuit of innovation, elegance, and technical mastery. These watches not only often represent significant milestones in the brand's history, but also stay true to the trademark Audemars Piguet blend of aesthetic appeal and rugged wearability.
Sotheby's is on hand to support with your next Audemars Piguet watch purchase or sale of an existing watch. We have an extensive offering of carefully curated Audemars Piguet watches, covering everything from luxury AP Royal Oaks for regular use, through to the rarest and most complex AP Royal Oak Tourbillon examples.
Trust our worldwide network of Audemars Piguet specialists from a globally renowned auction house with a 280 year history.
