April 15, 1972. The day on which Georges Golay, Audemars Piguet boss at the time, gave the world a watch that would bear such impact on the universe of horology that 50 years on, it remains one of the most desirable timepieces to ever grace human consciousness. We speak of course of the Royal Oak, designed by the inimitable, Gerald Genta, which at the point of its launch bore the price tag of a Jaguar XJ6. 3,750 Swiss francs to be precise, and precisely unheard of for a time-only watch in stainless steel.

It is this audacity that set the watch on a trajectory to become an irrefutable icon and remain an object of desire for generations to come. 50 years marks a significant milestone. One that deserves celebrations of the highest order, but not just to celebrate the past. Speaking at a presentation session ahead of the launch today, Michael Friedman, Audemars Piguet’s Head of Complications shared, “I think the key is that we’re celebrating the 50th anniversary by honoring the past but without a doubt we’ve planted seeds for the future as well. This anniversary year is [about] looking ahead as much as looking behind and we’re going to see these touch points throughout the whole collection.”