The Royal Oak changed the way people think about sports watches. Its octagonal bezel, visible screws and integrated bracelet created a design that remains recognisable more than half a century after its introduction.
Yet Audemars Piguet has a much broader history than one collection. The Royal Oak Offshore takes the original design in a larger, more assertive direction, while Code 11.59 offers a very different approach to case construction and dial design.
Our Audemars Piguet section follows these collections alongside historic references, unusual complications and collaborations that reveal different sides of the manufacturer.
The Construction Behind the Appearance
A Royal Oak may seem relatively straightforward until its proportions are examined closely. The geometry of the bezel, the alignment of its screws and the relationship between the case and bracelet are all essential to the design.
The dial is equally important. Different versions of the Royal Oak feature distinctive textured patterns, and small changes to the dial, indices or case size can significantly alter the watch’s appearance.
These are useful reference points when looking at Audemars Piguet replica watches, although visual similarity should never be confused with identical materials, movement construction or finishing.
This category brings together our Audemars Piguet coverage for UK readers interested in the original watches, their design history and the replica market surrounding their most recognisable collections.