That said, the 1970s were a very challenging time for the watch industry given it was facing the quartz revolution. The reliable mass-produced quartz movement had looked set to replace the mechanical watches so Audemars Piguet is to be admired for taking a risk that paid off.
When the Royal Oak timepiece was launched in 1972 by Audemars Piguet, it was met with a lukewarm response. Many critics could not get used to the steel case, octagonal bezel, “tapisserie” dial and integrated bracelet.
The Royal Oak was designed by Gerald Genta who created the very first sports-luxury wristwatch and the design itself was avant garde. The design was inspired by the traditional diver’s helmet with the octagonal-shaped bezel with now very recognisable eight visible hexagonal screws.
To continue reading our premium articles,
Upgrade your subscription to as low as $8.33/month to gain unlimited access to ALL of our premium articles!
Have an account? Sign In
