On the eve of the 1972 Basel Fair, the managing director of Audemars Piguet contacted legendary designer Gérald Gentawith what seemed like an impossible request: to create a completely new kind of luxury sports watch in stainless steel — overnight.

The result was the Royal Oak. Nicknamed the “Jumbo,” the original model measured 39 mm, an unusually large size for the era, and was powered by the ultra-thin Calibre 2121. Even more remarkably, the watch was priced higher than many solid gold dress watches of the period, including models from Patek Philippe — a daring move that would ultimately reshape the entire luxury watch industry.

Presented here is the exceptional Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Reference 25572ST, a 36 mm Royal Oak reference that we have always particularly admired for its balanced proportions and the wonderfully quirky yet elegant day-date display.

This reference was the first Royal Oak to feature a calendar complication, initially introduced in 1983 under reference 5572 before being renamed 25572 one year later. Production numbers remained extremely limited, with only approximately 1,770 examples manufactured in total — of which just 576 were produced in stainless steel — making this a genuinely rare Royal Oak reference.

Combined with its slightly thicker case profile and crisp white dial, this remains one of our favourite Royal Oaks currently available on the market. The white Petite Tapisserie dial is preserved in outstanding condition and offers beautiful symmetry through the placement of the sub-dials and signature AP details. The case and bezel remain sharp throughout, while the integrated bracelet is also presented in excellent condition and comfortably fits wrists up to approximately 18.5 cm.

Powering the watch is the automatic Audemars Piguet Calibre 2124, which has been fully serviced by our watchmaker and is ready to be enjoyed for years to come.

It’s no secret that we are long-term fans of the 36mm AP Royal Oaks – read about our love for them here.

A wonderfully charismatic Royal Oak that perfectly balances sportiness and elegance , we love these !

Specifications:

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Reference 25572ST
36mm steel case with integrated bracelet
Production number 12xx / D-27xxx dating to 1985
MK1 white Petit tapisserie dial
Day and date indicator sub dials
Calibre 2124 automatic movement
Fully serviced by our watchmaker
One-year mechanical warranty
Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 25572ST Day-Date Owl White MK1 Dial

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 25572ST Day-Date Owl White MK1 Dial

Before/after