Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 'Yves Klein'

Overall Condition: Excellent condition overall. Case and bracelet show minor signs of wear and signs of light previous polishing. Dial and handset are in great condition showing faded patina and intact luminous elements. Integrated bracelet has minor stretch.

A product of the 1970s, a decade brimming with imaginative creativity across all facets of design, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak pioneered a new category — the ‘luxury sport’ watch.

Legend has it that the entire Royal Oak design was sketched by Gérald Genta in a single day! Initially launched in stainless steel in 1972, the RO went on to inspire countless other manufactures and remains relevant to this very day. What's particularly delightful about the design of the Royal Oak is that it works brilliantly in a number of sizes and casing materials, from steel to carbon fiber or solid gold.

This example, a Reference 14790ST, features a lovely steel construction with its signature octagonal-shaped case, correct unsigned steel crown, sapphire crystal and comes fitted to the classic integrated, multi-link bracelet equipped with a signed locking deployant clasp.

The real star of the show is the dial, made as a rarer alternative branded 'Yves Klein' for its striking blue hued dial. Yves Klein was a famous French designer who used this complexion often in his designs. Coveted among collectors as a particularly rare and desirable configuration, these pieces are collector favorites.

The dial remains in exceptional condition showing a light, even patina throughout. Featuring applied indices, a matching handset and a hovering logo at 12 o’clock, the dial is exquisitely simple and beautifully balanced. Powered by an automatic movement, this is a vibe we’ll quite happily keep from the 20th century.