Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15300st

The 15300ST.OO.1220ST.02 occupies that elusive 39 mm sweet spot that disappeared almost as quickly as it arrived. Its 9.4 mm case, sapphire caseback, and original blue Grande Tapisserie dial preserve the sharp geometry of the 1970s design, while the screw-down crown discreetly improves water resistance to 50 metres, meaning the occasional splash by the pool is nothing to worry about, which is more than can be said for many display-back Royal Oaks.

With central seconds and a quick-set date, it offers a more practical alternative to the 15202. Early examples fitted with serif date wheels are already drawing close attention from dedicated AP collectors. The model was produced for a relatively short period, from around 2006 to 2011, before being succeeded by the 41 mm 15400.

This example has just returned from service at an official Audemars Piguet service centre and remains under warranty until March 2028