The Royal Oak. This storied model is completely ubiquitous with the collecting of fine timepieces. It was in fact one of the first watches I lusted over as a teenager as I began my descent in to watch collecting degeneracy. I fell in love with it, then for a period of time fell out of love with it. I classified it as a "status symbol" watch, which was completely unfair. The watches don't get to decide the impetus for their owner's purchase. As time passed (lol) I realized I was a clown; the Royal Oak is a bad ass design, full stop. The case shape, the finishing on the bracelet, the tapisserie dial; it's just simply the best. No other watch does what the Royal Oak does. It's an icon and one of the finest examples of high end design period, not just in the watch realm.

For those (myself included) who find the 39mm+ references to be a bit too broad for their wrists, let me introduce you to the 36mm 14790ST. This watch is a joy to behold. Many collectors have pinpointed these 36mm references as being perfectly proportioned. The dial on this example is the clear star of the show; it's gone fully tropical. AP used an anodization process to give these dials their famous blue hue. The correct combination of sun and heat made a number of examples go insanely tropical. This dial ranges from a stunning honey in sunlight to a creamy brown in softer lighting. The watch comes as a full set with box, original warranty papers dated 2001, as well as AP service papers and card dating to 2018. The watch is in well-loved condition and has scratches throughout. I opted not to have it polished but could have it expertly refinished at the buyer's request.

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