Case size: 39 mm
Material: steel/gold
Movement: automatic, caliber 2121
Year: circa 1979
Crystal: sapphire crystal
Bracelet: integrated original bracelet, folding clasp
Reference number: 5402SA
Movement number: 173'648
Case number: B18847 / 109
Accompanied by: certificate, box
Service papers from 2023 are included.
The watch is in overall well-preserved vintage condition, with some age-related wear on the case and bracelet. Serviced in 2023, and the movement is in good condition. The bracelet has minor stretch. The "Swiss Made" at 6 o’clock suggests the dial is either part of a later production batch or has been refreshed after the mid-1980s. The hands have been replaced.
A simple function check indicated the movement runs; accuracy, power reserve and long-term performance have not been tested and servicing may be required at the buyer’s expense. Water resistance cannot be guaranteed and should be checked by a qualified watchmaker before any exposure to water. No right of withdrawal applies to live auction purchases.
More information
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 5402 is the original Royal Oak reference, introduced in 1972, pioneering the concept of a luxury sports watch with an integrated bracelet and an ultra-thin automatic movement. Designed by Gérald Genta, the watch was initially produced exclusively in stainless steel, setting a new standard for high-end watchmaking. Due to its 39mm case diameter, which was considered large for its time, it became known as the "Jumbo".
In 1977, Audemars Piguet introduced the 5402SA, a refined two-tone version combining stainless steel and 18k yellow gold. This model remained significantly rarer than its steel counterpart, with only 876 units sold, numbered from 1 to 951. With serial number 109, this example is an early production piece within the 5402SA series.
This watch is powered by the Caliber 2121, an ultra-thin automatic movement based on the Jaeger-LeCoultre 920. Measuring just 3.05mm in height, it remains one of the thinnest full-rotor automatic movements ever produced.
The dial features the petite tapisserie pattern, a defining characteristic of the Royal Oaks. The "Swiss Made" marking at 6 o’clock suggests the dial was either part of a later production batch or refreshed after the mid-1980s.
Originally sold on March 30, 1979, this watch is accompanied by its original box and guarantee papers, which are rarely preserved with early Royal Oaks. It has also undergone a full service in 2023. As the first Royal Oak reference and a rare two-tone variant, it holds an important place in Audemars Piguet’s history.
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