Audemars Piguet - Royal Oak Selfwinding - 2021

Gerald Genta's 1972 Royal Oak revolutionised haute horlogerie by proving a steel sports watch could command luxury status. The 15500ST carries that ethos forward with an in-house calibre and the larger 41mm case diameter introduced to meet contemporary proportions.

The 41mm stainless steel case features the signature octagonal bezel secured by eight hexagonal screws, a design element that has defined the Royal Oak for over fifty years. Sapphire crystals front and back allow the movement to be admired, whilst 50 metres of water resistance provides everyday confidence.

The blue Grande Tapisserie dial showcases Audemars Piguet's distinctive chequerboard pattern, executed through a meticulous stamping process. Applied white gold hour markers and Royal Oak hands with luminous coating ensure legibility without compromising the dial's refined aesthetic.

The Calibre 4302 is an in-house automatic movement with 40 jewels, beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and delivering an impressive 70-hour power reserve. The movement is visible through the transparent caseback, revealing Geneva Stripe finishing and a 22ct gold rotor.

The integrated stainless steel bracelet, another hallmark of the Royal Oak design, features alternating brushed and polished links with a concealed folding clasp for a seamless profile on the wrist.

Excellent condition from 2021 means minimal wear — expect light surface marks on the bracelet and case, with the watch maintaining nearly new condition throughout. Five-year manufacturer's warranty status dependent on exact purchase date — may be active or recently expired.

One of the most recognisable silhouettes in watchmaking, as relevant today as when Genta first sketched it on a napkin.