Investing in an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak in 2025: Why the 15500 Attracts So Many Investors

Introduction: When Audemars Piguet unveiled the Royal Oak in 1972, no one imagined that this steel watch designed by Gérald Genta would become a status symbol and a pillar of luxury watchmaking. Revolutionary for its octagonal design, high-end finish, and bold price equivalent to a gold model, the Royal Oak initially baffled before saving the manufacture amidst the quartz crisis. Today, certain Royal Oak references – from the extra-thin « Jumbo » to the robust Offshore models – are among the most sought-after watches by collectors and investors. This educational and expert article traces the historical context of these iconic pieces, details their major movements and complications, compares the most sought-after Royal Oak references, analyzes the evolution of their Audemars Piguet Royal Oak value on the market (with price ranges in EUR and USD, 2025 data), and offers purchasing advice and an authentication checklist to invest serenely in an Audemars Piguet. Behind the scenes, we will see how the Royal Oak went from a risky bet to a coveted investment asset, embodying the marriage of luxury, technique, and an inimitable style.

1. Historical Context: A Watchmaking Revolution in Steel

In 1972, Audemars Piguet, the prestigious watchmaker from Le Brassus, risked everything in the face of the quartz crisis. The brand entrusted Gérald Genta with creating an « urban diving » watch for Italy. In one night, the designer sketched an innovative timepiece inspired by diving helmet portholes: a flat octagonal case secured by eight visible screws, a wide brushed bezel, a night-blue guilloché « Petite Tapisserie » dial, and above all, a perfectly fitted integrated bracelet. Presented at the 1972 Basel Fair, the Royal Oak ref. 5402ST shocked with its unprecedented concept of a luxury steel watch sold for more than a gold Patek Philippe. Priced at 3,300 CHF – ten times the price of a Rolex Submariner – it overturned established codes: henceforth, luxury watchmaking could be defined by design, finish, and movement, rather than by precious metal.

The initial reception was difficult: the design was considered too avant-garde, the visible gasket, the absence of a traditional dial, the exorbitant price… Conservatives predicted AP’s bankruptcy. It took over a year to sell the first series of 1,000 units (A series). But visionaries quickly understood the avant-gardism of the Royal Oak. Collectors and clients « in the know » adopted this insider’s watch, whose sporty-chic look radically contrasted with the dress watches of the time. Success eventually took off, saving Audemars Piguet from turmoil. The Royal Oak became the DNA of the brand’s renewal – « the watch that saved Audemars Piguet, » it would later be said.

AP then expanded its concept: after the A, B, C series of the Jumbo 5402ST, the brand introduced women’s variants and two-tone models as early as 1976, then the first Royal Oak Chronograph in 1980, the Royal Oak extra-thin Perpetual Calendar in 1981 (then the thinnest in the world), and a Day-Date Moon model in 1984. The Royal Oak became a full-fledged collection. In 1992 (20th anniversary), a Jubilee edition in gold (ref. 14802) was released, then in 1993, the house made a big splash with the Royal Oak Offshore by watchmaker Emmanuel Gueit: a 42 mm chronograph nicknamed “The Beast,” a supercharged and contemporary reinterpretation of the Royal Oak, designed for a young audience fond of extreme sports.

A cult watch born from a bold gamble. Half a century later, the Royal Oak is hailed as an icon. In 2022, the original reference is reinterpreted (ref. 16202, caliber 7121) for the 50th anniversary. From an misunderstood « ugly duckling » in 1972, the Royal Oak has become a timeless classic, prized for its history, its instantly recognizable design, and its status as a reference watch for the discerning collector. Above all, it paved the way for the luxury sports watch segment (Patek Philippe Nautilus in 1976, Vacheron 222 then Overseas, etc.) which is now the spearhead of the high-end watch market.

2. Major Movements and Complications of the Royal Oak

While the Royal Oak fascinates with its aesthetics, it is just as remarkable technically. From the outset, Audemars Piguet equipped it with exceptional movements. The 1972 Royal Oak « Jumbo » housed the ultra-thin (3.05 mm thick) self-winding caliber 2121 with date, derived from the famous Jaeger-LeCoultre 920. This movement, co-developed by AP, Patek, and Vacheron, featured an openworked oscillating weight in 21-carat gold and a Haute Horlogerie finish. It powered the Jumbo (5402 then 15202) for nearly 50 years, a testament to its reliability and technical excellence.

Over the years, Audemars Piguet developed its own manufacture calibers for the Royal Oak. In 2005, the caliber 3120 – an automatic 3-hand with date movement – appeared in the Royal Oak 39 mm ref. 15300, advantageously replacing the JLC 889 used in intermediate Royal Oak models. This caliber 3120, featuring a gold rotor engraved with the AP crest, provides 60 hours of power reserve and a central seconds hand. It would serve as the base for the caliber 3126 with a Dubois-Depraz chrono module for the post-2007 Offshore Chronographs. More recently, the Royal Oak 41 mm ref. 15500 (2019) was equipped with the manufacture caliber 4302 (70h power reserve, 28,800 vph) for even greater precision and reliability.

Complications also hold a prominent place in the Royal Oak range. Audemars Piguet has continuously integrated the best of its watchmaking expertise:

• As early as 1981, the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar (ref. 5554 then 25654) set a record for thinness with the caliber 2120/2800, only 4 mm thick, derived from the 2121. This ultra-thin perpetual calendar, still sought after today, displays day, date, month, moon phase, and leap year until 2100 without correction.
• In 1997, AP pushed the audacity further by launching a Royal Oak Offshore Perpetual Calendar Chronograph (ref. 25854), combining sportiness and high complication.
• The Royal Oak has also hosted chronographs (from 1998 in 39 mm, then 41 mm), a minute repeater (Royal Oak Concept 2002), and even a Grande Complication combining perpetual calendar, chronograph, and repeater (very limited pieces).
• The Offshore collection, introduced in 1993, adds a masculine dimension: 42 and 44 mm chronographs water-resistant to 100 m, initially with a modular caliber (AP 2226/2840) then with an integrated caliber (AP 4404) since 2021, and innovative limited series in materials (forged carbon, ceramic, etc.).

By combining these mechanical advancements with its design, the Royal Oak proved it was not only a work of style but also a high-tech timepiece. The quest for extra-thinness continues with the new Jumbo Extra-Thin 16202 (2022) featuring the further refined caliber 7121. Thus, from the historic caliber 2121 to the latest in-house movements, including perpetual calendars and tourbillons, the Royal Oak remains a field of innovation for Audemars Piguet.

3. Comparison of the Most Sought-After Royal Oak References

Several Royal Oak references are now true watchmaking grails. Each has its own design, movement, and production particularities, which influence its value. Here is a comparative overview of the models most coveted by collectors and investors: the Royal Oak « Jumbo » Extra-Thin (15202ST), the Royal Oak Automatic 39 mm (15300ST and its descendant 15400/15500), and the robust Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph (« Safari » 26170ST notably).

Royal Oak « Jumbo » Extra-Thin 15202ST

Released in 2000 for the 30th anniversary of the original model, the ref. 15202ST (also called « Jumbo ») is the direct descendant of the 5402 from 1972. It retains the 39 mm diameter, the extra-thinness (thickness ~8 mm), and especially the caliber 2121 without a seconds hand, visible through the sapphire case back. Produced until 2021, the 15202ST features a Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50 dial (historic hue) with a large « Petite Tapisserie » pattern and an applied AP logo at 12 o’clock (on the first series, then at 6 o’clock like the vintage models). Its charm lies in its timeless purity and its direct link to the original Genta design.

Features: Steel case 39 mm water-resistant to 50 m, extra-thin caliber 2121 (~40h), no seconds hand, date at 3 o’clock, thickness ~8 mm. Dials available in blue, slate grey, or even pink gold on some editions. Integrated steel bracelet with graduated links, exceptional satin finish (alternating polished edges). Notable references: 15202ST.OO.0944ST.01 (initial 2000s series, AP logo at 12h), 15202ST.OO.1240ST.01 (last « 50th anniversary » series with special rotor).

Why sought-after: Because it is spiritually the most faithful to the original Royal Oak. Its historic movement and now discontinued edition make it highly desirable. Furthermore, its relatively limited production over 21 years (a few hundred units per year) makes it a rare commodity. Many collectors consider the Jumbo the quintessential Royal Oak, the purest and most balanced.

Find your Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202ST « Jumbo » on Catawiki (exclusive auctions and rare pieces)

Classic Royal Oak Automatic 39-41 mm (15300ST, 15400ST, 15500ST)

In 2005, Audemars Piguet introduced the ref. 15300ST (39 mm) to offer a modern automatic Royal Oak while replacing the previous 14790 (36 mm). The 15300 adopts the manufacture caliber 3120 with a central seconds hand, a slightly greater thickness (~9.5 mm), and a date window at 3 o’clock. Visually, it differs from the Jumbo by the presence of the « Automatic » mention on the dial around 6 o’clock and a seconds hand. Produced until 2012, the 15300 was followed by the 15400ST (2012-2018, diameter increased to 41 mm) and then by the 15500ST (2019-2023) which further improves the movement (cal. 4302) and refines the dial (notably removing the « Automatic » mention).

Features 15300ST: Steel case 39 mm, caliber 3120 (automatic 3 hands + date, 60h, central seconds), thickness ~9.4 mm, blue, black, or white dials with applied AP logo at 12h and « Automatic » text at 6h. Sapphire case back. Luminescent baton indexes and hands in white gold.

Discover the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15300ST for sale on Catawiki (find the rare gem at auction)

Features 15400ST: Steel case 41 mm, identical caliber 3120, thickness ~9.8 mm, blue, silver, or black dials, elongated indexes, AP logo at 12h, « Automatic » mention at the bottom.

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15400ST awaits you on Catawiki (explore auctions and available models)

Features 15500ST: Steel case 41 mm, caliber 4302 (central seconds, 70h, 4 Hz frequency improving precision), thickness ~10.4 mm, blue, ruthenium grey, or black dials, refined dial design (no more « Automatic » inscription, widened baton indexes, simplified minute track).

Why sought-after: These references embody the « contemporary » Royal Oak. The 15300ST (39 mm) is sought for its size identical to the Jumbo and its status as the first modern full-manufacture Royal Oak – its relatively low production run (2005-2012) makes it a piece whose Audemars Piguet Royal Oak value has steadily climbed. The 15400ST democratized the 41 mm size while remaining rare with a blue dial. As for the 15500ST, despite the debates it sparks (some regretting the balance of the 15400 dial), it experienced a meteoric rise in popularity, with waiting lists closing quickly due to exponential demand. In summary, these « three-hand date » models offer the iconic Royal Oak aesthetic while being more accessible (at least in boutiques) than the Jumbo – which fuels a strong secondary market.

Look for an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500ST on Catawiki (numerous opportunities and auctions)

Royal Oak Offshore « Safari » 26170ST and other cult Offshores

For sports enthusiasts and lovers of imposing watches, the Royal Oak Offshore represents the holy grail. Launched in 1993 in 42 mm (then giant for the time), the Offshore aims to be the « extreme » version of the Royal Oak: automatic chronograph, massive pusher guards, screw-down crown, identical bezel but thicker case and reinforced structure. Numerous editions have emerged, among which the Offshore nicknamed « Safari » (ref. 26170ST.OO.D091CR.01) holds a special place in collectors’ hearts.

Royal Oak Offshore Safari 26170ST (2005-2012): Introduced in 2005 alongside the Offshore « Navy » and « Themes, » the Safari is distinguished by its beige ivory dial with a large grid pattern (Mega Tapisserie), its black Arabic numerals, and its contrasting counters (silver or brown depending on the series). Above all, it was the only Offshore originally delivered on a luxurious brown hornback alligator leather strap, while other models were on rubber or smooth leather. With its safari chic look, it quickly became one of the most iconic and appreciated Offshores. In 2007, AP replaced its caliber 2226/2840 (JLC base + chrono module) with the new caliber 3126/3840 (3120 base + Dubois-Depraz module) – the reference then became 26170ST. The Safari was produced in G and H series until around 2012, before being replaced by new variations (e.g., ref. 26470ST in 2014, with modernized hands and indexes).

Why sought-after: The Safari embodies the original Offshore spirit: color, boldness, and exclusivity. Discontinued, it is highly sought after on the pre-owned market. Its « African » aesthetic with a light dial and thick leather is instantly recognizable. Many consider it the most balanced of the themed Offshores. Furthermore, its lack of lume (no SuperLuminova on the black numerals) makes it unique, even if this was a drawback for some. In a collection, a Safari in good condition, with its original hornback strap, is a must-have for anyone wanting a different and charismatic Royal Oak.

Your Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Safari (26170ST) might be on Catawiki (discover ongoing auctions)

Other cult Royal Oak Offshores: mention the Offshore « Navy » (navy blue dial, blue rubber strap), the « Volcano » (black and orange dial), or the Offshore Arnold Schwarzenegger (limited edition 48 mm from 2003). More recently, the 2021 Offshore 42 mm reissue brings an integrated caliber (4404) and an interchangeable strap system. But among all, the Offshores from the 2000s ( « Themes, » Safari, Navy series) retain a special aura. Their original design, with a screwed octagonal bezel and contrasting chrono counter on the large Tapisserie, is highly collected pre-owned today.

In summary, the Royal Oak collection offers a range of references suited to different tastes: the Jumbo for elegant purists, the 39-41 mm Automatics for luxurious daily wear, and the Offshores for an assertive and sporty wrist presence. However, all share the Royal Oak DNA: that blend of sport and prestige that makes them cult watches.

4. Market Value Evolution (WatchCharts 2025) and Price Ranges

Investing in an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak has proven particularly fruitful over the last decade. Prices saw a meteoric rise until 2022, before undergoing adjustments. Let’s analyze the value evolution for our flagship references, with current price ranges (early 2025) in euros and dollars according to WatchCharts and market data.

Royal Oak 15202ST (Jumbo Extra-Thin): Long undervalued, its value exploded upon the announcement of its discontinuation in 2021. In 2017-2018, the 15202 could be found on the grey market for around €35,000 ($40,000). Early 2022, driven by general speculation on sports watches, it reached a historic peak of about $110–120,000 pre-owned, i.e., over €100,000 – an absolute record for a modern Royal Oak. Subsequently, with the 2023 correction, its price stabilized. In 2025, a 15202ST in excellent condition trades for around $50–60,000 (approximately €46–55,000). WatchCharts indicates a market price of ~$55,000 (about €50,000) in early 2025 for the reference 15202ST blue dial. In other words, despite a decline from the 2022 peak, the Jumbo is now worth more than double its last boutique price (~€25,000) – reflecting its enduring desirability. Over the very long term, first series examples (A-Series 1972) reach even higher peaks at auctions, but that’s a separate market.

Royal Oak 15300ST / 15500ST: These models followed the same upward trend, albeit with less magnitude. The 15300ST (39 mm, produced 2005-2012 at approx. €13,000 new) traded around €18–20,000 in 2018. Late 2021, it had climbed into the thirty thousands of euros (approx. €30–35k). Today, in 2025, WatchCharts indicates an average price of $30,000 (~€27,000) for the 15300ST. Indeed, its current market typically ranges between €25,000 and €32,000 depending on condition and dial (blue versions being at the top end). The 15500ST (41 mm), on the other hand, was priced around $40–45k at its peak in 2022. In 2025, with more supply available (relatively abundant 2019-2021 production), it is found around €32,000–€37,000 (i.e., $35–40k) on the secondary market, often close to double its initial retail price (~€24k). For example, WatchCharts indicates a market of ~$37,000 for the 15500ST with a range of $33k to $40k. The recent 15510ST (new model 2022, 50th-anniversary rotor logo) has not yet fully stabilized in price but follows a similar curve.

Royal Oak Offshore Safari 26170ST: Offshores experienced a slightly later boom, with demand exploding in 2020-2021 for these imposing models. The Safari soared from ~€15,000 in 2018 to over $30,000 (€27k) in 2021. During the speculative peak in early 2022, some sales flirted with $35,000. In 2025, the market has normalized around €18,000 to €22,000 ($20–24k) for a Safari full set in good condition, according to recent transactions. A WatchCharts report for the Offshore 26470ST (very similar successor model) gives a median price of ~$20,000 (€18k), consistent with this range. Thus, a slight depreciation from the peaks is noted, more marked in percentage (-30 to -40%) than on classic Royal Oaks, as Offshores have a slightly smaller audience. However, limited editions or sought-after vintages (e.g., pre-2010 series without date magnifier) retain their value better. By comparison, a new 2023 Offshore « Safari » (ref. 26470ST re-edition) costs about €28k in boutiques – the collectors’ market thus favors the original 2005 references, which maintain sustained pricing.

General Trend: The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak value experienced a typical speculative bubble cycle between 2019 and 2022, fueled by boutique scarcity and enthusiasm for tangible luxury assets. After the March 2022 peak (where the WatchCharts AP index gained +80% year-over-year), a correction occurred in 2023 (-18% on average for AP over the year). But since late 2023, prices have stabilized at a plateau significantly higher than the pre-2017 era. In 2025, investing in Audemars Piguet – particularly in discontinued iconic Royal Oaks – is still considered relatively safe, with moderate volatility compared to cryptos or stocks, and long-term appreciation potential due to structural excess demand.

To summarize in a few figures (estimates early 2025):

• 15202ST Jumbo – Market value ~€50k ($55k); observed range €45–60k.
• 15300ST (39 mm) – ~€28k ($30k) average; range €25–32k.
• 15500ST (41 mm) – ~€35k ($38k); range €33–37k.
• 26170ST Safari – ~€20k ($22k); range €18–22k.

These values are indicative and likely to evolve based on luxury market trends, macroeconomic conditions, and of course, collector enthusiasm for particular models. Note also that Royal Oaks in precious metals (gold, titanium, platinum) follow their own dynamics: for example, the 15202IP in titanium/platinum reached peaks (often >$120k in 2022), and pink gold models retain a 10-20% premium over steel on average.

5. Purchase Advice and Authentication Checklist

Acquiring an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak represents a significant financial – and emotional – investment! To buy with confidence, here are some expert tips and an authentication checklist to follow scrupulously.

5.1 Do Your Research and Choose Your Purchase Channel

• Know the market: Inform yourself about the current value of the desired reference (via WatchCharts, Chrono24, specialized forums). Identify the realistic price range based on the year, condition, and accessories. An unusually low price is suspicious; conversely, a too-high price is only justified for a new or exceptional collector’s piece.
• Official network vs. grey market: Ideally, try to obtain the watch through an AD or an Audemars Piguet boutique – but most Royal Oaks have closed waiting lists. The secondary market (professionals or individuals) will often be the only option. Prioritize trusted sellers: reputable platforms, auction houses, or established dealers. Beware of informal listings without guarantees.
• Origin and papers: A Royal Oak with its certificate of origin, warranty card (even expired), and box will have more value and provide reassurance about authenticity. Verify that the serial and movement numbers, if provided, match AP archives or original documents. Audemars Piguet also offers an archive extract upon request to confirm the initial configuration.
• Condition and servicing: Inspect the overall condition: scratches, dings, potential polishing (excessive polishing can round the edges and decrease value). A slight stretch in the steel bracelet is normal on vintage models. Prefer watches maintained by AP or an authorized watchmaker – a clear service history is a plus. Ask about any recent servicing (with proof), especially for older models or complicated Offshores.

5.2 Authentication Checklist: Key Points

Counterfeit Royal Oaks exist and are becoming sophisticated. Apply these checks to spot fakes:

• Weight and perceived quality: An authentic steel Royal Oak has a noticeable weight, a sign of solidity. A fake will often be lighter or feel hollow. The watch must exude an impression of extreme quality in its finishes.
• Dial and Tapisserie pattern: This is the number 1 authentication point. AP tapisseries are made by traditional guillochage (pantograph machine) at Stern Frères, with perfectly aligned and sharp patterns. On a counterfeit, the checkerboard may be coarse, blurry, or printed. Also check the « Audemars Piguet » texts: fine typography, no smudging. Fakes often show imprecise logos or incorrect spacing. The date sub-dial must have a background matching the pattern (not just a simple incompatible white disc).
• Indexes, hands, applied logo: On a real AP, all white gold markers are mirror-polished, well-aligned, and securely fixed. The luminescent material is applied cleanly. The applied « AP » logo (or the full « Audemars Piguet » printed on recent models) is sharp, without smudging, never crooked. A fake may have crooked indexes or a poorly finished logo.
• Case and bezel: The quality of the case middle and bezel is crucial. The mirror-polished chamfers on the edges of the bezel and case must be regular and perfectly delimited from the brushed surfaces. The eight hexagonal bezel screws (actually, they are decorative nuts, the screw is underneath) must all be aligned the same way (grooves in the same axis) and flush. On a fake, you often see misaligned or crooked screws, and a coarse satin finish on the bezel surface (uneven brushing scratches). The case back (on models with a screwed back) bears precise engravings and numbers – compare with a known original.
• Integrated bracelet: A Royal Oak bracelet is a masterpiece of manufacturing – perfectly adjusted links with alternating brushed/polished finish, visible connecting screws on each side. The links must slide relative to each other without excessive play. No link should be crooked or misaligned. The brushed finish on the wide upper links is aligned with the bracelet axis, with a fine and homogeneous grain. On a fake, you often find a looser or poorly finished bracelet, blunted or conversely too sharp edges. The AP deployant buckle must open/close precisely and feature the sharply engraved « AP » logo.
• Movement and internal screws: If you can see the movement (sapphire case back on many models), examine its finish: Côtes de Genève, blued or polished screws, gold rotor engraved AP (22k on 2121/2120, 21k on 3120) with coats of arms. Even a non-expert can spot a low-quality movement or fake decoration. For example, a fake caliber might be an undecorated Miyota, visually very different from the authentic AP caliber. On solid case back Offshores, you cannot see the caliber, so rely even more on other criteria.
• Functionality: Test the date change, winding, time setting. On a real Royal Oak, everything is smooth and precise. Abnormal resistance, suspicious jumping of the seconds hand, or a non-centered date alignment can betray a counterfeit (or a serious mechanical issue).
• Engravings and markings: The case back usually bears the inscriptions « Royal Oak » and the number (on older ones) or specific engraving on newer ones. These engravings are laser or high-quality mechanical, very sharp. A fake will sometimes have spelling errors, different fonts, or superficial engravings.

By applying this checklist – dial, case, bracelet as priorities – you will eliminate 99% of fakes on the market. Remember that the most copied models are the steel Royal Oaks with blue dials (Jumbo, 15400/15500) and some very popular Offshores. Don’t be dazzled by a deal that’s too good to be true: « trust but verify » should be your motto. Do not hesitate to consult an independent expert or use authentication services offered by some platforms if doubt remains.

5.3 Maintaining Value Over the Long Term

Once your Royal Oak is acquired, a few good practices help preserve – or even increase – its value over the long term:

• Carefully keep the box, papers, accessories (extra steel bracelet links, possibly a second rubber strap for Offshores, etc.). A complete full set adds significant value upon resale.
• Wear your watch carefully. Avoid violent shocks that could mark the bezel or misalign the screws. Store it safely (box or watch winder) when not wearing it. A Royal Oak is not a diving tool watch – its 50m water resistance (for most) only covers daily use; consider having the seals tested if it’s over 5 years old.
• Only have the watch polished if genuinely necessary and entrust this task to Audemars Piguet or a specialist familiar with the Royal Oak’s particular geometry. Poor polishing can alter the sharp angles and decrease collector value. Many collectors prefer a few micro-scratches from use over an over-polished watch.
• For automatic models, have the movement serviced approximately every 5 to 7 years by AP or an authorized watchmaker. A movement in good working order ensures the longevity of the investment. Keep the service invoices – it’s a sign of seriousness.
• Monitor market trends: certain references may experience new increases (anniversary edition, appearance of a successor that boosts the value of the discontinued model, etc.). As the Royal Oak is a cornerstone collection piece, keeping it for many years is not a problem – quite the contrary, as rarity increases, it could gain even more value. However, if you notice a truly speculative surge (like in 2022), know how to assess the opportunity to sell your piece at the right time.

In conclusion, investing in an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, whether for watchmaking pleasure or financial perspective, requires preparation and vigilance. But the game is worth the candle: you don’t just own a watch, you hold a piece of watchmaking history – a watch that defied conventions, conquered connoisseurs, and whose status as a true luxury asset is no longer in doubt. By following the advice in this guide, you can wear your Royal Oak with pride, while having the serenity of an informed and secure investment on your wrist.

Conclusion:

« It takes more than money to wear a Royal Oak » claimed an advertisement from the 1970s. More than money indeed: passion, knowledge, and a certain audacity. The Royal Oak, born from a disruptive vision, has become a symbol of success and an asset of choice for those wishing to invest in Audemars Piguet. Its design, unchanged in its principles for 50 years, has not aged a bit – a sign that a true icon is timeless. Whether it’s the finesse of a vintage Jumbo, the sporty-chic allure of a contemporary 15500, or the power of a Limited Edition Offshore, each Royal Oak tells part of the Audemars Piguet legend. By investing in these watches, one does not just buy metal and complications: one acquires a part of a living myth, with the possibility of deriving both emotional and patrimonial benefit. And that, as the historic tagline suggested, money cannot always buy – but knowledge and passion can.