Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 'Midsize' Ref. 14790ST - 'Second Series'

It’s not unfair to say that Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is one of the most iconic watches ever made. Designed in 1972 by Gerald Genta, the Royal Oak completely changed the way that we look at a steel sports watch. For the first time, stainless steel was treated as a precious metal - receiving complex finishing techniques of brushing, polishing, and beveling - all by hand. The idea that its eight hexagonal bezel screws would be finely finished and left exposed for the wearer to see was a revolutionary thought. It’s no surprise that the model became the calling card for the family owned Audemars Piguet - not to mention one of the most sought after watches in the world. While the initial 5402 was time-only, AP quickly began to capitalize on the success of the Royal Oak and begin to integrate other complications and variations into this case.

Which leads us to the Royal Oak that we have here, a 'midsize' Reference 14790ST. These pieces embody the ethos of the original Ref. 5402 'Jumbo' models, just in a slightly smaller and equally svelte 36mm case. In fact, at a glance, the only thing that differentiates it from its larger sibling, is the presence of a running central seconds hand.

This particular example from circa the late 1990s remains in excellent overall condition. It's case and bracelet appear to have been professionally restored, with correct finishing visible throughout. The piece shows light, uniform wear across the bezel, case and bracelet with no significant blemishes or damage. The blue tapisserie dial inside is gorgeous. The textured surface is seemingly flawless and the applied Tritium-filled indices are all even in color. The handset is also correct and still holds it's luminous effect.

These watches strike the perfect balance between the size and value proposition that a Royal Oak can offer. The 36mm size lends itself to, we think, a more comfortable wearing experience for more people, in fact, we'd say virtually any wrist, versus the way a full size 39mm Royal Oak which can fit a little odd on some wrists due to how flat it is.

Whats not to like?