Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202: A Collector's Farewell and Future Plans

Key Points from the Discussion

• While the Royal Oak 15202 is an icon, Audemars Piguet has continued to innovate horologically, pushing boundaries with complications like the ultrathin perpetual calendar and concept flying tourbillon.
• Audemars Piguet's design evolution has been perceived as stagnant by some, with many new models, including the Code 11:59, still referencing the Royal Oak's octagonal mid-case for validation.
• The author's 'master plan' involves acquiring the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar, a move that prompts discussion on the appeal of complex dials versus more minimalist perpetual calendars from brands like F.P. Journe or H. Moser.
• The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202 is considered by many to be 'THE watch of the 20th century,' with an unparalleled aura and completeness that makes it a benchmark for the brand.
• Questioning whether the 15202 being AP's 'best watch ever' implies a lack of evolution since 1972, the author suggests that while the 15202 is exceptional, AP has indeed progressed.
• A practical tip for evaluating a watch is to view it in a mirror, as this perspective can reveal how others perceive the watch on the wrist and potentially alter one's own impression.