Lot Essay
Audemars Piguet introduced the Royal Oak in 1972 and it was a game-changer for the luxury watch industry. Based upon a design by Gerald Genta, the Royal Oak was the first luxury steel watch with integrated bracelet. Priced at a level above gold watches, it was a polarizing watch and it was highly uncertain if it would be a success. Since its inception Audemars Piguet would make many variations of the Royal Oak including the present wristwatch.