SIHH 2019
After more than two and half years since its release, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Extra-Thin 15202BC still mesmerizes the world of watch collectors like never before. When the watch was released at the SIHH (Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie), held in Geneva from 14-17 January 2019, we all knew that the hype would be colossal. Audemars Piguet has been sharply criticized for its new product line “Code 11:59” but the 15202BC was there to steal the show and save the Swiss brand.
Popularity & Collectability
With a small production batch of only 75 units each year, the Royal Oak 15202BC is one of rarest AP watches. As is commonly known, AP’s hot pieces are available only at the brand’s own boutiques. Around 70 Audemars Piguet boutiques exist worldwide, which means that each boutique receives more or less 1 piece each year. Well that’s what I call rare and now you might understand why the watch is so sought-after by collectors. Popularity even increased this year when the AP’s CEO announced the discontinuation of the 15202 series. At the same time, Mr.François-Henry Bennahmias released a limited – and final edition – of the Royal Oak Jumbo 15202 in platin with smoky green dial. I am pretty sure Audemars Piguet will surprise us with a successor model of its iconic Jumbo series next year.
The official retail price of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Extra-Thin 15202BC is CHF 57’300, while market price is almost around CHF 160’000. The price surged heavily in the last month and I am sure it will continue to rise for the next week months.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202BC by Willem Van Puyenbroeck for @watchrookiee
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Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202BC by Willem Van Puyenbroeck for @watchrookiee
Not A Salmon Dial
Ref. 15202BC matches its 18K white gold case and bracelet with a rose gold dial – actually not a “salmon dial” as I have read many times before in social media. However, the name ‘Jumbo Salmon’ has been established among watch collectors and lovers. But in fact, it’s not a ‘Salmon’ shade we know for instance from reference 5270P of Patek Philippe.
I’m not usually a big fan of mixing white gold with rose gold but this watch looks great! The typical Audemars Piguet “Tapisserie” pattern on the dial is as eye catching as ever. The masterpiece has diameter of 39mm and comes with a thickness of only 8.1mm, which allows the watch to fit perfectly underneath your shirts. However, the watch is also a great daily beater and can be easily combined with different styles from business to smart casual. In fact, the perfect proportion of the 15202 series is what makes the watch so popular among collectors.
The caliber remains the same as for its siblings, allowing the watch to focus on what is necessary: minute, hour and date. The in-house developed self-winding caliber 2121, includes 36 jewels and beats at 2.75 Hz while offering a power reserve of 40 hours. Water resistance is set at 30m by the manufactory.
Audemars Piguet really did a great job of designing this one. A true masterpiece and of course one of the most collectible Royal Oaks ever made. Mr. Bennahmias, can we have more please!?
Summary
Brand:
Audemars Piguet
Model:
Royal Oak ‘Jumbo’ Extra-Thin Ref. 15202BC.OO.1240BC.01
Price:
Official retail price is at CHF 57’300 but current market price is around CHF 160’000.
Limitation:
No official limitation, but small production of around only 75 watches per year.
Measurements:
Diameter: 39 mm; height 8.1 mm
When to wear:
A beauty like this should be worn 24/7 and you can match it perfectly for any occasion – for a dinner, sports event or any business opportunity.
What we love about the watch:
We love the risk that AP took to combine the types of gold on this watch. The white gold case and bracelet makes it look like a normal steel watch, but the rose gold dial whispers “I am special”. Without any doubt, an eye-catcher.
Photography: Willem Van Puyenbroeck @imwvp for @watchrookiee
