We know that Audemars Piguet occupies a level it shares only with the select few, but can you believe that just half a century ago, it was a company struggling to gain recognition and continue in the business? But the Swiss watchmaker eventually caught a break with the Gerald Genta-stamped Royal Oak, and has never looked back since. What made the model memorable is the distinction it holds in watchmaking history-it is the first stainless steel luxury sports watch to grace the earth. The groundbreaking design was copied by many brands, but nothing quite achieved the stature of the Royal Oak.
Compare Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15400ST Prices Online
Amazon
US$18,499.00
Amazon Discount Codes
Jomashop
US$19,995.00
Jomashop Discount Codes
Ebay
US$19,500.00
Ebay Discount Codes
Release date: 2012
Price: US$19,995.00
The original Royal Oak has spawned many models since the 1970s, and with the 15400, we see the Royal Oak at its biggest. Instead of the usual 39mm diameter, the 15400 is at 41mm. It takes a little getting used to, but fans of the Royal Oak can rest easy knowing that it still has the charm of its predecessors.
Specifications
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: Audemars Piguet Calibre 3120
- Power Reserve: 60 hours
- Case material: Stainless Steel
- Caseback: Transparent
- Case size: 41.9 mm
- Case thickness: 9.80 mm
- Water resistance: 50 meters/165 feet
- Functions: Date, Hour, Minute, Second
Pros
When beholding the Royal Oak 15400, it is the dial that immediately catches our attention, not because of any unique designs or shiny gimmicks, but because of how every detail down to the choice of color makes the dial appear balanced. Among Royal Oak models, the 15400 stands out for the impressive light refraction that treats the wearer to varying hues of silver to white, depending on the angle and the lighting. Its movement is also something to write home about because of its accuracy that’s unmatched by most and its power reserve that reaches 60 hours. For the often incautious, Royal Oak 15400 saves you from potential damage with its water resistance rating of 50 meters, allowing it to function perfectly even after being accidentally submerged in water.
Cons
The watch is perfectly legible during the day. We cannot say the same, however, when there is insufficient light to view the dial-the markers aren’t as luminous as we would have preferred. The date appears and feels smaller too for a watch of the Royal Oak 15400’s size.
Compare With
- Cartier 18k Rose Gold & Diamond Tank Anglaise Extra-Large Model
- Tudor Black Bay GMT ‘Pepsi-Cola’
- Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph
- Panerai Luminor Due
Image credits: Time and Tide Watches, aBlogtoWatch, Watch Collecting Lifestyle, Swiss Sports Watch