AUDEMARS PIGUET | ROYAL OAK, REFERENCE 8638 ST A STAINLESS STEEL BRACELET WATCH, CIRCA 1976

Dial: greyCalibre: cal. 2062 automatic, 24 jewelsMovement number: 175'690Case: stainless steel, case back secured by 8 screwsCase number: B5244Closure: stainless steel Audemars Piguet bracelet and folding claspSize: 29 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 158 mmSigned: case, dial and movement

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The dial has minor specks of color loss at places, however such occurrence is natural over time. The bezel with minor signs of wear and pinhead dings at places. The band with minor signs of wear and pinhead dings at 2 o'clock, 9 o'clock and 11 o'clock, however it is consistent with its age. The watch is in very crisp and original condition. The case back is in very good overall condition with minor signs of wear particularly to the center. The bracelet is in very good overall condition for it's age and light signs of wear at places. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

After the successful launch of the Royal Oak in 1972, Audemars Piguet and Jacqueline Dimier, a pioneer in complicated women’s watchmaking designed the perfect lady’s version of the Royal Oak.

In a very honest and well-preserved condition, the present watch not only is very well made and designed, the minor signs of ageing to the dial adds tremendous character to the present watch, making it more attractive for vintage lovers. The case and bracelet still retains very nice, sharp and crisp finishing. Seldom do these early steel Royal Oak come to market, especially in such original condition.