There are only a few names that deserve a spot on the proverbial horological Mount Rushmore. One name that is a surefire pick — Gérald Genta.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is perhaps Genta’s most memorable work, and in many ways changed the shape of the watch industry.
The introduction of the Royal Oak essentially created an entirely new category of 'luxury sport' timepieces, and with it came a new design language which inspired countless other manufactures. What's particularly delightful about the design of the Royal Oak is that it works brilliantly in a number of variations; whether we’re talking ‘Jumbo’ or midsize models, steel or solid gold cases, and basically any complication – you name it, there’s a Royal Oak for that.
This particular model, a Reference 25594ST, features a 36mm stainless steel construction, a lovely white tapisserie dial with applied luminous baton indices, a matching handset, its signature integrated multi-link stainless steel bracelet with a signed deployant clasp and Audemars Piguet's Calibre 2825 automatic-winding calendar moonphase movement within.
Much tidier than their ‘Jumbo’ stablemates, 36mm Royal Oaks have become a favorite amongst collectors, including those of us here at Analog:Shift HQ - for their perfect proportions, wearability, and value proposition.