Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph

One name still does most of the heavy lifting here: Gérald Genta.

The Royal Oak wasn’t just a new watch when it debuted—it was a provocation. Exposed screws, an industrial case, an integrated bracelet, and stainless steel treated with the reverence of precious metal. Overnight, the rules changed.

This Royal Oak Chronograph represents one of the most wearable expressions of that original idea. Rendered in stainless steel with the signature octagonal bezel, it balances sport and refinement in a way few watches ever have. The blue dial, executed in Audemars Piguet’s iconic “Grande Tapisserie” pattern, adds depth and texture, while silver-toned hands and applied indices keep things crisp and legible. The tri-compax chronograph layout feels purposeful rather than busy, with a discreet date tucked between four and five o’clock.

Inside beats Audemars Piguet’s automatic chronograph movement, featuring a column wheel, 37 jewels, and a power reserve of roughly 40 hours—serious watchmaking beneath a very confident exterior. At 38–39mm, depending on how one measures, this is a Royal Oak that simply fits. Not oversized, not precious, just right.

Often overshadowed by the Offshore or the Jumbo, the classic Royal Oak Chronograph is something of an insider’s choice. Try it on once, and it becomes very hard to imagine taking it off. Original box included.

Audemars Piguet, the vaunted manufacture from Les Brassus, wasn't doing so well at the end of the 1960s. Their horological prowess aside, times were changing, customer tastes were evolving, and AP was stuck firmly in a very traditional past. Fortunately for us, their executives recognized this, and bet it all on the launch of an avant garde timepiece the likes of which the world had never seen.

Utilizing the talents of a designer named Gerald Genta, who would make his name for designing this very watch, AP planned from the beginning to make this new watch - dubbed the Royal Oak - a contradiction to tradition, and it became the world's first luxury sports watch. Made in steel. The gamble paid off, and the watch world clamored to get their hands on the cutting edge design, which featured a sharply angled watch with integrated bracelet, micro tapisserie dial, and ultra thin movement.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a two-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.