The inaugural Royal Oak model, reference 5402, made its debut in 1972 at the Basel Fair following two years of meticulous development. Apparently designed in one night by Gérald Genta, this extraordinary watch elevated steel to a new status. It pioneered the concept of "casual chic," marking a pivotal moment in the history of Audemars Piguet and luxury watchmaking.

Launched in 1983, the Royal Oak reference 4332 (renamed reference 14332 in 1985) was the first Royal Oak produced in 36 mm, offering a smaller alternative to reference 5402, which, with its 39 mm diameter, was considered a large watch for the time. It was produced for 11 years, but 98% of the watches were delivered during the first four years of production. The 4332 is the most modest of all the ‘medium-sized’ Royal Oaks (‘medium-sized’ meaning 36 mm) with only 907 units sold, including 376 two-tone (steel and yellow gold); 298 in yellow gold; 201 in steel and 26 in white gold. In addition to being the rarest of these references, the 4332 is often considered the closest to the 5402 in terms of design, both in the proportions of its case, bracelet and bezel, and in the typography and layout of the dial.

This specific model is one of the first 4332s, with a number below 100, and is therefore one of only 201 ever made in steel. It features the original blue dial, which has acquired a superb grey-purple tint over time. The case and bracelet are made of steel and have been preserved in exceptional condition. The calibre 2125 is the original calibre. This timepiece is not only a masterpiece of design, it has also become an icon in the world of watchmaking.