The history of this Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo 5402SA
A true watchmaking myth, the House of Audemars Piguet forever revolutionized the industry in 1972 with the unveiling of the Royal Oak, the very first luxury steel sports watch. Designed by the legendary Gérald Genta, it imposed its bold codes with its octagonal bezel and visible screws. This Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo 5402SA (Ref. long AP: 25402SA.00.0344SA.01) belongs to the original lineage, that of the pioneers who forged the legend. This is the extremely rare 39 mm "Jumbo" version, ref. 5402SA, combining the nobility of 18-carat yellow gold with the robustness of steel. Produced in the late 70s, as evidenced by its Série B numbering, it represents the Holy Grail for any serious collector. Its engraved caseback "No 877", coupled with the famous Série B, dates its birth to around 1977-1978, confirming that this is one of the first thousand Gold & Steel examples ever produced by the Manufacture. To own this timepiece is to own a fragment of history, a testimony to the era when "sport chic" was born. Its presence on the wrist is inimitable, combining extreme finesse with a powerful architecture that spans the decades without a wrinkle.
Case, caliber and bracelet of this Jumbo
The 39 mm case, the iconic dimension of the "Jumbo", is striking for its exceptional thinness of just 7 mm. Crafted in steel and 18k yellow gold, it offers a taut, angular profile that only the original models possess. The Slate Grey dial, enhanced by the "Petite Tapisserie" motif, captures the light with a unique depth, specific to vintage gold and steel models. It features the AP logo applied at noon, the distinctive signature of the B Series. Devoid of a seconds hand to preserve the purity of the design and the finesse of the movement, this timepiece lives to the rhythm of the legendary Calibre 2121. This ultra-thin automatic movement, with its central rotor, is a technical feat derived from the famous calibre JLC 920, considered one of the world's most refined mechanisms. The integrated bracelet, with its period blade clasp, naturally extends the lines of the case for absolute comfort.
Why this Audemars Piguet watch
This reference 5402SA is a major heritage investment opportunity. Unlike modern reissues, this "real" Jumbo has the soul and exact proportions designed by Genta. Its condition is particularly interesting for purists. The watch has retained its clean lines and has not undergone any recent polishing for sale, a deliberate choice that respects its historical integrity and character. Discerning collectors always prefer a case with substance and sharp angles, even if it means accepting a few traces of life, rather than an over-polished piece with rounded shapes. The presence of the Audemars Piguet service invoice guarantees total traceability and authenticity, reassuring the purchaser of the conformity of every component, from dial to movement.
Delivered contents and condition
This exceptional piece is accompanied by a solid file attesting to its pedigree. It comes with its Audemars Piguet transport box and, most importantly, its official service invoice from the manufacture, dated March 2018. The watch is in good condition, worn with care since its last service. It shows the normal micro-scratches from use for a timepiece of this era, testifying to its experience without altering its beauty. The dial is immaculate and the bracelet is in good condition. Polishing remains possible on request, but we strongly advise keeping it in this authentic condition, which maximizes its collector's value.
Warranty and delivery
In addition to its limpid history, this watch benefits from a two-year warranty offered by The Swiss Collector. We ensure premium, fully secure and tracked delivery to your hand, or offer you the option of collecting this horological treasure from one of our many collection points in Switzerland, for an experience that lives up to its prestige.
* Good condition - watch with visible traces of wear and scratches. Case not recently polished to preserve its angles. Perfect working order.
