When you combine the visionary design language of Gérald Genta with Audemars Piguet’s mastery of haute horlogerie, the result is the Royal Oak Quantième Perpétuel: a sports icon with one of watchmaking’s most prestigious complications.
The journey began in 1983 with the reference 5554, the first Royal Oak to house a perpetual calendar. Back then, such a complication was almost exclusively reserved for precious metals, a clear symbol of exclusivity. Steel was not the expected choice: it was a bold one, cementing the Royal Oak’s role as a disruptor in the luxury watch world. Over the decades, the perpetual calendar Royal Oak evolved through numerous references, but each remained rooted in this audacious blend of utility and refinement.
Understated Brilliance
Released in the early 2000s, the 25820ST is one of the perpetual calendar Royal Oaks executed in stainless steel, making it especially compelling. It marries the enduring appeal of the classic 39mm octagonal case and integrated bracelet with a more contemporary technical twist: the first regular production Royal Oak perpetual calendar to feature a leap-year indicator, which was subtly positioned in the month register at 12 o’clock.
The smooth silver brushed dial trades the familiar tapisserie texture for a cleaner, more modern presentation, giving full visual focus to the calendar displays and moonphase. Through the sapphire caseback, the automatic movement reveals its hand-finishing and skeletonised 21k white gold rotor, a quiet showcase of AP’s craftsmanship.
Condition
This example is in exceptional condition, with razor-sharp bevels and crisp case lines that honour Genta’s original proportions. It comes complete with its original box and papers, further underlining its collector appeal.
A creation that once redefined the rules, and still embodies the perfect harmony of elegance and complication.
- extrasFull Set
- year2004
- reference25820ST
- modelRoyal Oak Perpetual Calendar
