THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: AUDEMARS PIGUET
MODEL: 5093
YEAR: c1980s
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 30mm
CASE MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
BRACELET MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
MOVEMENT: MANUAL WIND

While the Royal Oak is undoubtedly one of the most iconic watches of all time—and arguably saved Audemars Piguet, shaping the brand after Gérald Genta’s legendary design in 1972—the manufacture had already produced an incredible range of watches both before and after the Royal Oak's debut.

Fast forward to today, and the Royal Oak continues to dominate the brand’s image and demand. But as a result, some truly fantastic 20th-century APs—with exceptional craftsmanship—fly under the radar and still offer remarkable value (we’ve recently listed two that were made 50 years apart).

Continuing that theme, the dodecagon-shaped piece we have here dates back to the 1980s and is one of those watches you didn’t know you needed. It nearly brought our photography session to a halt today because Jake fell in love with it—and it’s easy to see why. The 30mm case, “Bamboo” bezel, and integrated bracelet—all in solid 18K yellow gold—are miniature works of art. The watch has clearly had an easy life: the bracelet is uncut and fits up to a 19cm wrist, the case shows minimal wear, and the cream-coloured dial is spotless.

We’ll let Jake’s images do the talking—this beautiful vintage Audemars Piguet looks stunning on both men's and women's wrists.