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T he Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watch stands as one of the most iconic luxury sports watches in horological history, its unique design having revolutionized the industry since its debut in 1972. Over the decades, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak has been reimagined in various materials and complications, with rose gold being a particularly striking and sought-after variant. In this article we revisit the five most expensive rose gold Audemars Piguet Royal Oak models ever sold at Sotheby’s, focusing on their unique attributes and histories.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, Reference 15502OR.ZZ.1222OR.01 was sold in July 2022 for 3,024,000 HKD. This particular Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model from 2020 stood out for its breathtaking combination of pink gold, diamonds, and orange sapphires. The pavé-set dial was adorned with brilliant-cut diamonds and stunning orange sapphires, adding a bold yet elegant flair. Powered by the automatic Caliber 4302, the movement boasted 32 jewels to demonstrate the technical prowess behind its beauty. The sapphire crystal case back was also secured by eight screws and allowed a glimpse of the intricate mechanics, framed by an 18k pink gold case.
This watch measured at 41 mm in diameter and came with an 18k pink gold bracelet featuring a double folding clasp, making it a statement of luxury. Accompanied by an Audemars Piguet international warranty card, instruction manual, and presentation box, this model was presented in exceptional condition. Its mix of precious materials and craftsmanship underscored its place as one of the most valuable modern Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watches to come to auction.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Reference 25829TR.OO.0944TR.01 was sold in June 2024 for 315,000 USD. Limited to just 16 pieces, this Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar from 1997 showcased the maison’s adventurous use of tantalum and pink gold. Tantalum, a material more commonly seen in aeronautical and medical industries due to its durability and corrosion resistance, was notoriously difficult to machine. The tantalum material comprised the mid-case and larger links. It contrasted beautifully with the pink gold bezel, crown and center links to create a striking and rare aesthetic.
This skeletonized perpetual calendar model was powered by the Caliber 2120/2802 with 38 jewels and revealed its inner workings through both the dial and the sapphire display back. The watch also featured a moon phase and leap year indication, a hallmark of the perpetual calendar complication. Produced by the renowned Gay Frères, the bracelet bore their signature craftsmanship. This watch was a rare and exceptional piece, merging innovation with the classic Audemars Piguet Royal Oak design.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Reference 25829OR.OO.0944OR.01 was sold in October 2021 for 2,394,000 HKD. A continuation of the Audemars Piguet commitment to combining high complications with sports elegance, the above skeletonized perpetual calendar model in pink gold from 2007 was a true masterpiece. The 39 mm case housed an automatic Caliber 2120/4, composed of 343 parts, showcasing the brand's dedication to precision. Both the dial and the sapphire crystal case back revealed the intricate workings of the movement, offering a view of the beautifully chased rotor.
Faithful to the design of the first perpetual calendar Audemars Piguet Royal Oak from 1983, this model retained the 39 mm diameter while incorporating modern updates. The pink gold bracelet was secured with a folding clasp, adding a touch of opulence. Accompanied by an Extrait de Registre and a presentation box, this AP Royal Oak watch was not only a functional marvel but also a visual spectacle. Its condition and accompanying documentation only heightened its desirability among collectors.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Openworked Reference 15305OR.OO.1240OR.01 was sold in May 2022 for 277,200 CHF. Introduced in 2010, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Openworked watch exemplified the Audemars Piguet brand's mastery in skeletonization. This 2015 model featured a slate grey openworked dial framed by an 18k pink gold case. The automatic Caliber 3129, with 38 jewels, was a modified and skeletonized version of the in-house Caliber 3120, further demonstrating the brand's commitment to mechanical artistry.
The 39 mm pink gold case housed a bracelet with an Audemars Piguet folding clasp, offering both comfort and style. Sold in excellent condition, this watch came with an Audemars Piguet warranty certificate and a presentation case, adding to its value. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Openworked Reference 15305OR.OO.1240OR.01 watch’s intricate design and luxurious materials made it a standout among collectors, blending innovation with timeless Audemars Piguet Royal Oak aesthetics.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Reference 26730OR.OO.1320OR.01 was sold in June 2024 for 228,000 USD. The final watch on this list was a tribute to the 50th anniversary of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. This model, crafted in 18k pink gold, featured a striking smoked blue Grande Tapisserie dial. Powered by the 27 jewel automatic Caliber 2950, this AP Royal Oak model showcased the rare and prestigious flying tourbillon complication. The sapphire display back, secured by eight screws, revealed a special gold rotor engraved with the 50 Years logo, marking its celebratory nature.
What made this model even more special was its provenance—this particular AP Royal Oak watch was consigned by none other than Sylvester Stallone. With a case diameter of 41 mm and a pink gold bracelet, it stood as a modern masterpiece that celebrated the rich history of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Sotheby’s was honored to offer this unique piece, a symbol of the enduring legacy of the Audemars Piguet brand’s most famous creation.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak collection has continuously pushed the boundaries of design and technical innovation, particularly with its rose gold variants. From combinatiations with other rare materials like tantalum to limited edition complications such as the perpetual calendar and flying tourbillon, each of these models represents the pinnacle of the Audemars Piguet brand’s craftsmanship. These five exceptional pieces, brought to market by Sotheby's Audemars Piguet experts, served as a testament to the lasting allure of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Whether through intricate skeletonization or unique provenance, each watch tells its own story while contributing to the legacy of a true horological icon.
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 Oak watches for regular use, through to the rarest and most complex Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon watch examples.
Trust our worldwide network of Audemars Piguet specialists from a globally renowned auction house with a 280 year history.
