20 - AUDEMARS PIGUET (Royal Oak / Jumbo - Patiné 5402ST Series B, Ref. B 1004), circa 1975–77

AUDEMARS PIGUET (Royal Oak / Jumbo - Patiné 5402ST Series B, Ref. B 1004), circa 1975–77 An exceptional Jumbo-sized sports watch originally designed in 1972 by Gérald Genta. The Royal Oak takes its name from the octagonal cannons mounted on Royal Navy ships. In 1975, the Series B (sold until 1993) rolled off the production line, with 845 pieces produced and numbered from B1000 to B2000 (Series B, 1975 model year / 228 pieces produced). This timepiece, with excellent provenance, remained in a safe for many years. In this series, most dials developed a “tropical” appearance (the paint was burned away by the tritium gas from the hour markers, revealing the gold of the dial; on this particular piece, only a slight patina is visible from 12 o’clock to 1 o’clock). Very large-aperture brushed steel case in a faceted barrel shape with a screw-down caseback engraved with “Royal Oak” (signed B.1004, internal number 99389). An octagonal, brushed-steel bezel with a patina, secured with 8 visible 18-karat white gold screws. Anthracite-gray “tapestry” dial with a date window at 3 o’clock, applied Tritium-filled hour markers and logo at 6 o’clock, and luminescent baton-style hands in white gold. Original non-screw-down nut-shaped crown. Original AP bracelet (Gay Frères) made of steel, integrated into the case with stylized links and a vintage folding clasp (may require servicing), signed Audemars Piguet. Inner diameter of the bracelet: approximately 7.6 cm. Movement: Automatic mechanical caliber signed AUDEMARS PIGUET / K 2122, based on JLC Swiss. Diameter: 39 mm. Condition: Good condition (last service in 1999) (Carrying case included)