Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ref. 15305ST - 'Skeleton' Dial W/ Box & Papers

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 modern example dating to circa the mid 2010s. The case features the same 39mm diameter of the original 'Jumbo,' albeit not quite as svelte, but does make for a versatile wearing experience. Of course, it is fitted with the characteristic integrated steel bracelet with a signed locking clasp, the equally characteristic steel bezel, and a signed crown at the 3 o'clock position. The standout feature of this piece relative to its contemporaries, is of course the openwork 'skeleton' dial which beautifully reveals the inner architecture of the movement, while actually being able to see right through it all due to eh sapphire exhibition caseback. Very neat indeed. It's not completely impractical though; there is a traditional chapter ring on the outside with minute markers and applied luminous 5-minute markers, which are complimented by a luminous handset. 

This piece comes complete with its inner and outer boxes, books, and papers dated 3/30/2016.