The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar 25800

T he Royal Oak was the first luxury sport watch. Years before other manufacturers, it opened the path to a new way of thinking in the traditional world of watchmaking. This visionary concept is the masterpiece of the designer Gerald Genta and contributed to saving the Swiss industry. Not all the Royal Oak are created equal. Perpetual calendar Royal Oaks are extremely exclusive and sought after by discerning collectors. With a unique size and a different movement, the elusive Reference 25800 is the most special Royal Oak featuring this complication. Sotheby’s is extremely pleased to present as a special single lot sale the only publicly known 25800 in white gold with an incredible bright yellow dial.

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A History of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

1972
1983
1993
1996
1997
2002
2015

1972

Introduction of the first Royal Oak. The reference 5402.
1983

Presentation of the first Royal Oak Perpetual calendar: the reference 5554 (later renamed 25554). Offered to the public in 1984.
1993

Launch of the first Royal Oak offshore: the reference 25721ST.

Introduction of the leap year indication on the perpetual calendars (caliber 2120/2802).
1996

Launch of the reference 25800 Royal Oak perpetual calendar, not based on the cal. 2120 and offering a unique alternative to the standard 39mm size.

Introduction of the Offshore with colourful dials and matching leather strap.

Grand complication reference 25865 using the calibre 2885 with minute repeater, split-second chronograph and perpetual calendar.
1997

Introduction of the first Royal Oak Offshore with a perpetual calendar, the reference 25854BC.
2002

Introduction of the Royal Oak Concept to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Royal Oak.
2015

Introduction of the reference 26574 with a 41mm case and using the new caliber 5134 for a new perpetual calendar Royal Oak with week indicator.