Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph 25860ST

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The first-ever Royal Oak Chronograph was launched in 1998 as the reference 25860.The 25860 adds a chronograph complication to the classic 39 mm stainless steel Royal Oak case. This specimen dates back to 1998, the very first year the model was launched. The watch sports a ‘Grande Tappisserie’ dial in a warm cream tone. The three recessed chronograph counters feature an attractive Art Deco sector-dial style. A discreet aperture between the 4 and 5 o’clock position provides a handy date function as well.The stainless steel case and integrated bracelet are in excellent condition, with sharp edges and crisp bevels. The watch has just received a full service at Audemars Piguet and comes as a full set with the original outer and inner box, as well as booklets and a certificate of origin.

Introduction

Audemars Piguet Royal OakIn 1970, Audemars Piguet instructed Genta to come up with an unprecedented steel watch. As the story goes, he found inspiration whilst seeing a diver at work with an old-fashioned diver’s helmet near Lake Geneva. Staying up all night, Genta drew the design for a circular case with an angular, octagonal bezel, eight visible screws, and an integrated bracelet. The Royal Oak was presented in 1972 as the most expensive steel watch available and it caused an uproar: why was a distinguished maison d’horlogerie putting out a sports watch, let alone in such a pedestrian material? Some experts even predicted that the Royal Oak would put Audemars Piguet out of business. Though it took a while to catch on, the Royal Oak is now one of the most iconic and long-lasting watch designs, and has spawned an entire product line. It wouldn’t be the first time that Genta would prove a brand’s owners, customers, and industry experts wrong.

Specifications

Shipping

Packages are generally dispatched within 2 days after receipt of payment and are shipped within the Netherlands by Registered Mail through the Dutch carrier PostNL and for other countries by Fedex. Consult us if you prefer another method of shipping. For most destinations tracking is available.