The Royal Oak is perhaps one of the most distinctive watches around. With its octagonal shape, exposed screws and integrated bracelet, it is easy to recognise from afar. But more importantly, the watch is a legend for pioneering the use of stainless steel in haute horlogerie, thanks to a watch designer, Gerald Genta, who was inspired by the porthole of a naval ship. Though back in 1971 when this inspiration led to the Royal Oak, Mr. Genta wasn’t yet the household name it is today.

This rare Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 6005SA Jumbo has many signature RO design features, however it sports a case shape that is in stark contrast to the original reference 5402. The stainless steel and 18-carat yellow-gold case of this Royal Oak measures 32 mm x 41mm, and although more oblong/rectangular in shape, it is often referred as the Royal Oak “Square”. It features a flawless “small Tapisserie“ dial with old Audemars Piguet logo font in grey. Its steel and gold bracelet is tight and the original “button-crown” (pull to set the hour, press internal button to set the minute) works perfectly, as does the AP quartz caliber 2511 housed in this reference 6005SA. The watch is in overall great original condition with only small signs of wear from occasional use over the decades.