This book is dedicated to the history of the Royal Oak from 1972 to
2020 from the perspective of collectors and enthusiasts around the
globe.
The Royal Oak by Audemars Piguet is one of the watch models most coveted
and sought-after by collectors all over the world. Characterized by a
steel case, an octagonal bezel, the "Tapisserie" dial, and a steel face,
it subverted aesthetic codes when it appeared in 1972. Even though its
success wasn't immediate, it became an icon over the course of several
seasons. The Royal Oak came about when the popularity of quartz watches
seemed to be heralding the end of the mechanical watch. Audemars Piguet
decided to gamble on something completely new, a sporty, elegant watch
that would mark a turning point in the market and reconfirm Swiss
supremacy in watchmaking.
This monumental tribute features Paolo Gobbi, among others, the most
important Italian watch expert and one of the most knowledgeable in the
world, and Andrea Mattioli, an antiques dealer and great connoisseur of
this model. Royal Oak 39 The Book explores the timeless timepiece,
illustrating every facet of over a hundred rare and legendary specimens
belonging to prestigious collections, photographed in detail exclusively
for this exquisite monograph. It is a must-have for watch enthusiasts
and, in particular, lovers of this model, characterized by its
39-millimeter dial.
