Introduced in 1972, the first Royal Oak ref. 5402 was designed by one of our most prolific watchmakers, Gerald Genta. Inspired by a scuba diving helmet and designed in one night, this model had no precedent at the time: a 39 mm steel case that earned it the nickname “Jumbo”, and its impressive price tag of CHF 3,650 - more than ten times the price of a Rolex Submariner.

Parallel to the production of the iconic Royal Oak, the 8638ST was the second reference produced from 1976 onwards; a scaled-down version of the 5402 with a 29mm case and automatic movement. Named “Royal Oak II”, some versions even bear this engraving on the back.

The octagonal case shape and integrated bracelet make the watch larger than its dimensions would suggest, while retaining the proportions of its iconic original design and the famous grey dial with its “Petite Tapisserie” motif.

A total of 1,456 pieces of the reference 8638ST were produced, mainly between 1976 and 1980.

This model is equipped with the automatic caliber 2062, which has a power reserve of approximately 38 hours.

The watch comes with its original box and an extract from the Audemars Piguet archives.

Condition report on request.

---

---