Audemars Piguet 15050BA Limited Edition, Yellow Gold

This reference 15050 is a limited-edition piece which was created in 1997, in honour of Audemars Piguet’s 50th anniversary in Japan. To mark the occasion, a flourishing “50” is engraved onto the movement, which can be seen through the sapphire caseback. The case number found on this piece is below 15, which suggests just how few of these were made, making this a rare example that epitomises the neo-vintage era.

The Royal Oak is a watch that is instantly recognisable to a modern audience. Famously penned by Gerald Genta, the first reference 5402 was released in 1972, and since then has spawned various iterations, each adapting the classic silhouette in their own way while paying tribute to a remarkable design.

This reference 15050 is a version of the reference 15000, with the “50” at the end of the reference number indicating that the piece has an open caseback. The watch also possesses a striking combination of a gold case, dial, and date disc. A notable feature is that the tapisserie on the dial does not extend throughout but is sectioned off by a matte chapter ring that displays the index markers. Further to this, the watch is extremely well preserved and is likely unpolished, as it retains its bevelled edges and thick bezel, while the bracelet remains stiff and sharp.

Thanks to the substantial case and integrated bracelet of this Royal Oak, it wears larger on the wrist than its 33mm case would otherwise suggest. Despite its smaller size, it still houses a self-winding movement – the calibre 2140 – as opposed to a quartz movement, which you might expect in other pieces with a similar size. Moreover, it comes with its original bracelet and deployant clasp, featuring the hallmark of famed bracelet maker Gay Frères, who produced the first Oyster bracelets for Rolex, as well as integrated bracelets for the original Nautilus and Royal Oak.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Audemars Piguet 15050BA Limited Edition will be subject to 20% VAT.

Closer look

This Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15050BA is in very good condition overall. The case and bracelet appear to be in unpolished condition, as displayed by the bevelled edges, thick bezel, and stiff bracelet. The yellow gold case has also developed some oxidation throughout, giving it a rose tint throughout. There are also a few superficial marks throughout consistent with minimal wear. The bracelet has 20 links. The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.