A salmon-dial Royal Oak is special. A salmon-dial Royal Oak Tourbillon made for the 25th anniversary of the Royal Oak is something else.

In 1997, Audemars Piguet celebrated 25 years of the Royal Oak with a small series of highly complicated models. Among them was the reference 25831, which holds an important place in the history of the collection as the first Royal Oak fitted with a tourbillon. The reference was produced in very limited numbers across different metals, with just 25 examples in stainless steel, in consecutive serial numbers. The steel version was, at the time, reportedly the most expensive stainless-steel watch in the world.

One of the most interesting features of the 25831 is its case design. The crown is positioned on the caseback rather than on the side of the case, leaving the characteristic Royal Oak silhouette completely uninterrupted. The symmetry is striking. The watch is powered by the automatic calibre 2875, an unusual tourbillon movement with a bumper-style winding system. It also provides a date and power-reserve indication.

The salmon dial is particularly attractive and arguably the most sought-after configuration of this reference. It combines Audemars Piguet’s signature Petite Tapisserie pattern with three separate displays. The hours and minutes are shown on a small subsidiary dial at 12 o’clock, while the date and power reserve are displayed at 3 and 9 o’clock. The three sub-dials have smooth finishes, providing a clear contrast against the Tapisserie pattern. At 6 o’clock, the large opening reveals the one-minute tourbillon. The aperture is framed with a miniature octagonal motif, echoing the shape of the Royal Oak bezel and tying the movement back into the design of the case.

This particular example is in great condition. The stainless-steel case remains sharp, with perfect edges and crisp finishing. The bezel, case and bracelet are well preserved. Its dial is perfect. Your chance to get your hands on a special steampunk specimen.