With modern Royal Oak prices surging at a rate that no one can quite comprehend, savvy collectors are turning their heads to slightly-older, and incredible value-for-money pieces. Enter the 36mm Royal Oak Dual Time. Whilst the Dual Time was well-known throughout its production, most notably within a 39mm case, many are unaware of the 36mm offering which came prior. Introduced in 1992 and running for a number of years, reference 25730 is a somewhat divisive reference given that 36mm case size. It was certainly a popular size at its introduction, but as we approached the 21st century larger-cased watches came to trend. Although, saying this, we are more recently seeing a move back towards smaller-cased watches, a move we’re pleased to see. Suitable very much so to a ladies wrist, but certainly also for a gent who enjoys smaller-wearing 36mm pieces, there is a charm to the 25730 that can’t quite be replicated by a modern-day offering by the brand. Available in a number of different combinations throughout its production period, the example showcased here in its full yellow gold form is most definitely our favourite. The dial displays a gorgeous white tone throughout the “Tapisserie” pattern, and its broken up wonderfully by the complications of the watch. Powered by Audemars Piguet’s self-winding calibre 2229/2845 movement, the watch boasts a 48-hour power reserve (indicated by the 10 o’clock indicator”, as well as showcasing the date at 3 o’clock. Finally, and most importantly, the second time zone is shown at the 6 o’clock, and rather than being in your more traditional fashion of a central “GMT hand”, the lower sub-dial displays both a synchronised minute hand as well as an independent small hour hand for keeping on time with your home location.

Condition Report:

In exceptional overall condition, it is likely that this watch has been back to Audemars Piguet for a service and polish in its history, albeit not to our knowledge. The case and bracelet of the watch remain in a very good way, and there is little to no stretch in the bracelet whatsoever - a particularly impressive feat for a precious metal watch of this age. The bracelet is missing two of its original links, but in its current form remains likely to fit the wrist that it ends up on. Both the dial and the hands are original to the watch, displaying a subtle matching-coloured patina throughout the luminous of both elements. Complete with its original box and 2003-dated certificate of origin booklet, the watch showcases exceptional value for money when being compared to more modern full-gold Royal Oak’s.

• Year: 2003

• Reference Number: 25730BA.O.0789BA.06

• Material: Yellow Gold

• Size: 36mm

• Movement: Automatic Calibre 2229/2845

• Waterproof: 50m

• Box Information: Original Box

• Extras: Original Certificate

• Strap: Yellow Gold Bracelet