A watch that was first sold in 1972 is still the masterpiece of the brand 46 years later. Not to mention more desirable and collectible than ever on both the new and pre-owned market.

With a case and bracelet designed by the late Gerald Genta, the Royal Oak is, in my opinion, visually one of the greatest watch designs of all time. The rarer A-Series models (Ref. 5402) in the best condition are naturally “the most desirable” vintage buy.

Verdict

I don’t know about you but this is one of my holy grails and has been for many years. Really any Royal Oak for that matter. I like the old ones, the new ones (Ref. 15202ST), and even the non-Jumbos (Ref. 15400). Any would do for me. No other watch is like it. The way the light reflects off the perfectly faceted and polished octagonal steel case and the bracelet is truly sublime.