Introduced at the start of the 1990s, the reference 14700BA was a short-lived chapter in the evolution of the Royal Oak. It followed the reference 4100 and was soon replaced by the 14790, leaving the 14700 With a remarkably short production run of approximately two years, and rumoured to be a limited production to around 500 units.

Often referred to as the “transitional Royal Oak”, the 14700 is particularly interesting from a collector’s perspective. Its brief production period and relatively low numbers mean that examples rarely appear on the market, especially in such exceptionally preserved condition.

At 37mm, the case is slightly smaller than the original 39mm Royal Oak Jumbo, yet its proportions give it a surprisingly substantial presence on the wrist. The slimmer bezel and generous 28mm dial create an appearance that brings it visually closer to the original reference 5402, while its 7.2mm thickness makes it remarkably elegant and wearable.

The ivory-coloured Petite Tapisserie dial is beautifully preserved, free from any visible imperfections and complemented by applied gold hour markers and matching gold hands. Its warm, understated tone pairs beautifully with the 18k yellow gold case, giving this Royal Oak a character all of its own, especially when compared to its more familiar anthracite-dialled counterparts.

The dial configuration is confirmed in the accompanying Extract from the Audemars Piguet Archives, adding an important layer of provenance/originality.

The 18k yellow gold case remains remarkably well preserved, retaining its crisp geometry, sharp angles and original factry-polished facets. The integrated lugs flow seamlessly into the bracelet, preserving the architectural proportions that made the Royal Oak so revolutionary from the very beginning.

Equally special is the original Gay Frères manufactured 18k yellow gold bracelet. Beautifully integrated into the case, it remains in exceptional condition with very little stretch and only a handful of fine hairline marks, subtle reminders that this rare Royal Oak has been carefully enjoyed before finding its way into our collection.

The watch and its ultra-thin caliber 2225 movement, were fully serviced by Audemars Piguet in 2019. More recently, we carried out a comprehensive check-up of the movement in-house, confirming that it continues to perform in accordance with factory specifications.

This Royal Oak will be delivered with our two-years WatchWorks warranty, accompanied by its original Audemars Piguet presentation box, the AP service box, and, of course, the Extract from the Audemars Piguet Archives. A complete set of documentation and accessories for a particularly rare chapter in Royal Oak history.