Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500 Review

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500 reference is a stunning timepiece with a unique history. The name “Royal Oak” was inspired by the tree that saved Charles II of England. He hid in it to escape the Roundheads, following the Battle of Worcestor in 1651.

This story became popular and resulted in the public holiday Royal Oak Day which is observed each year on May 29th. This has been a longstanding tradition since 1660 when Parliament passed made it a perpetual holiday.

The Royal Oak also has its history remembered in the British Royal Navy. At least 4 British Royal Navy battleships had the Royal Oak name. Gérald Genta designed the first Audemars Piguet Royal Oak in 1971 and released it at Baselworld 1972. This created a stir within the luxury sport watch world. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500 is a descendent of this early reference 5402ST released in 1972.

The 5402ST was a change in the design focus at Audemars Piguet since the Royal Oak became its first sport watch produced. The 5402ST was not only water resistant to 150 feet, but it was only 7mm thick. However, at 39mm the timepiece was considered large at the time.

The price on the steel timepiece set a standard that took the world by surprise. The Royal Oak was priced near what a gold timepiece would cost. This finally separated the Royal Oak from the rest of the market and established the exclusivity that collectors the world over now clamor for.

In 2005, Audemars Piguet gave the Royal Oak an update with its reference 15300ST. The thickness increased to 9.4mm. It housed the Caliber 3120 which beats at 21,600 per hour.

In 2012 Audemars Piguet released the reference 15400ST. The case was increased to 41mm and the thickness was increased to 9.8mm. The AP logo was replaced at the 12 o’clock position with a double baton hour marker which makes the timepiece look more like the original Royal Oak 5402ST. Because of the larger size of the face, the date window at 3 o’clock was moved closer to the center and a small baton hour marker is seen at the 3 o’clock position for the first time.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500

This most recent Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500 received a stellar update in 2019. The timepiece has quite a few changes from the previous models. Although the diameter is still set at 41mm, the thickness has been increased to 10.4mm.

The new caliber 4302 was added to this watch. It is a self-winding movement which beats at 28,800 beats per hour. This new caliber increases the power reserve from 60 hours to 70 hours.

The beauty of the movement is still available to be seen by turning the timepiece over and viewing it through the sapphire crystal on the back side of the timepiece. The rotor is built out of 22k gold and several of the 32 jewels are clearly visible. This caliber was made with 257 parts.

One of the finest aspects of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500 is the Grande Tapisserie design of the dial. The dial is available in blue, gray or black. This luxurious look and the polished steel give this sports watch the elegant appeal of a dress watch.

One big change is that the date window has been moved further to the right encompassing the whole of the 3 o’clock position. No longer is there a small baton at 3 o’clock.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500 Review

The Audemars Piguet (AP) Royal Oak 15500 is a modern iteration of the iconic Royal Oak collection, first introduced in 1972. Known for its distinctive octagonal bezel, “tapisserie” patterned dial, and integrated bracelet, the Royal Oak has become a symbol of luxury and innovation in the world of horology. The 15500 model, in particular, continues this legacy with several notable features and variations.

Design and Features

The Royal Oak 15500 boasts hands and gold applied hour-markers filled with luminescent coating, ensuring readability in low-light conditions. This attention to detail highlights AP’s commitment to both aesthetics and functionality. The 15500 model is equipped with the Caliber 4302, a self-winding movement that offers a 70-hour power reserve and a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, ensuring precision and reliability.

Variations of the Royal Oak 15500

1. AP Royal Oak Ref #15500ST.OO.1220ST.02
   • Description: This version features an all-steel construction with a sophisticated grey dial.
   • Features: The steel case and bracelet offer durability and a sleek, modern look, while the grey dial provides a subtle yet striking appearance.
2. AP Royal Oak Ref #15500OR.OO.1220OR.01
   • Description: This model showcases a luxurious black dial paired with an 18-carat pink gold case and band.
   • Features: The combination of the black dial and pink gold case exudes elegance and opulence, making it a standout piece.
3. AP Royal Oak Ref #15500OR.OO.D002CR.01
   • Description: Featuring a pink gold case and a black alligator strap, this version blends luxury with comfort.
   • Features: The alligator strap adds a classic touch, while the pink gold case enhances the watch’s luxurious appeal.
4. AP Royal Oak Ref #15500ST.OO.1220ST.01
   • Description: This all-steel version comes with a striking blue dial.
   • Features: The blue dial adds a vibrant pop of color, contrasting beautifully with the stainless steel case and bracelet.
5. AP Royal Oak Ref #15500ST.OO.1220ST.03
   • Description: Another all-steel variant, this model features a classic black dial.
   • Features: The black dial offers a timeless and versatile look, suitable for any occasion.
6. AP Royal Oak Ref #15500ST.OO.1220ST.04
   • Description: This version combines an all-steel case with a pristine white dial.
   • Features: The white dial provides a clean and elegant appearance, making it a versatile addition to any collection.
7. AP Royal Oak Ref #15502OR.ZZ.1222OR.01
   • Description: A truly exceptional piece, this model features an 18-carat pink gold case entirely gem-set with 466 brilliant-cut orange sapphires and 610 diamonds.
   • Features: The gem-set case makes this a dazzling showpiece, showcasing Audemars Piguet’s mastery of haute joaillerie and watchmaking.

Rubber B has 2 lines of watchbands for the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500. The difference is based on whether you have a steel band or a leather band.

For steel band owners, Rubber B has come out with the strap for Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 41mm on Metal Bracelet – Velcro® Series. This vulcanized rubber strap is engineered to fit Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 41mm (models that come originally on a gold or steel bracelet ONLY). This strap features a solid insert for Blocked Integration to the watch case.

It has an exclusive Velcro® Alfatex® fastening strip provides a comfortable and esthetically pleasing mount to the AP watch case. The attachment loop contains a TITANIUM INSERT for optimum performance. This Vulcanized rubber strap has been Tortion-tested for extreme strength and security.
This strap comes with an optional retaining loop, although it is not necessary to use. It is hand-sewn with HYDROTURF® marine thread.

All Rubber B bands are made in Switzerland of pure vulcanized rubber. No coating, blends or bonding are used in the production.

The second band Rubber B has come out with is the one made for owners of the leather band version. The strap for Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 41mm on Alligator – Classic Series is made from vulcanized Rubber and engineered to fit Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 41mm leather strap models only.

This rubber strap is perfectly calibrated to mount the Rose Gold Royal Oak and AP Deployant buckle. It features the Rubber B patented “Blocked Integration” engineering and titanium bridge inserts provide a flawless, secure, and flush mount to the AP watch case.

It is designed to mount the customer’s factory Audemars Piguet buckle featured in the alternate view images (this strap does not come with a buckle). Rubber B offers 6 luxurious colors in this series.

What Separates Rubber B From Other Watch Straps?

Rubber B has become well-known as a highly respected crafter of custom rubber watch bands for timepieces from some of the most respected watchmakers in the field, including such brands as Patek Philippe, Rolex, and Audemars Piguet. Rubber B has a variety of straps in different colors and styles in our product portfolio that are appropriate for both business/formal wear and more casual situations as well.

Every Rubber B custom rubber watch strap is made only from 100% vulcanized rubber, and all of our products are FDA and BVGG compliant as well.

Do You Need a Custom Rubber Watch Band For Your Luxury Watch? Visit Rubber B Today

Rubber B watch straps do not contain any coating, blends, or bonding, and each and every strap undergoes rigorous testing to ensure that it meets quality control standards.

If you would like to learn more about our complete list of products, shipping policies, and pricing, or have questions about our custom rubber watch straps, please visit the Rubber B website today for more information. One of our valued team members will be happy to answer your inquiry in a timely manner.

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