Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo 15202 Dial Flaw

Alex25 · 2016-01-17T13:57:05Z

Alex25 shares a dial flaw on his new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo 15202. Community discusses AP quality control and manufacturing tolerances.

Alex25

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

22 replies9926 views4 photos

Alex25, a new member to WatchProSite, shares his recent acquisition of an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo Ref. 15202, a watch he pursued for three years. However, his excitement is tempered by the discovery of a perceived asymmetry in the minute marks on the dial, prompting a community discussion about manufacturing tolerances and quality control in luxury watchmaking.

22 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

Good evening, friends

Two weeks ago I was lucky to receive a new AP 15202. I have been pursuing this very watch for about three years and finally I got it. The reason was quite simple: I wanted to get a legend with the state of art movement.

When I was flying recently and got quite a lot of time to burn I decided to admire the beauty of the watch. When I looked closer in the dial I noticed that the minute marks were a bit asymmetrical. To be honest this is first time I see any dial flaws in expensive Swiss watches. I own a quite small collection including JLC, Harry Winston and Van Cliff apart from AP. And all the dials there are absolutely fine.

As you may see in the pictures the right mark (the 1st minute) is located further than the left mark (the 59th minute). The difference it slim but as the process is automated there shall be no difference. The rest of the marks are also a bit asymmetrical.

So the question is: is it a common practice? I supposed that AP should deliver flawless quality, especially in a quite simple 2-hands watch

PS As I am quite new to the forum I would like to say it is brilliant and full of true watch admirers.

Best,
Alexey

About the Audemars Piguet Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202 YG Ref. 15202

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak "Jumbo" ref. 15202 is a significant reference within the Royal Oak collection, known for its close adherence to the original 1972 design. It maintains the distinctive slim profile and integrated bracelet that defined the initial Royal Oak, distinguishing it from other Royal Oak models that introduced different sizes or complications. This reference is particularly valued for its historical continuity and minimalist approach to the Royal Oak aesthetic.

This reference features a 39mm case, typically crafted from yellow gold, with a thickness of 8.1mm. It is fitted with a sapphire crystal and offers a water resistance of 50 meters. Powering the watch is the self-winding Caliber 2121, a movement known for its slimness and a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. The dial is presented in blue, complementing the yellow gold case and bracelet.

For collectors, the 15202 represents a direct link to the Royal Oak's origins, appealing to those who prioritize historical accuracy and understated design. Its production run from 2012 to 2019 makes it a sought-after reference among enthusiasts of the "Jumbo" lineage. The combination of its classic dimensions, integrated bracelet, and the Caliber 2121 solidifies its position as a key reference in the Audemars Piguet catalog.

Specifications

Caliber: Cal.2121

Case: yellow gold

Diameter: 39mm

Dial: Blue

Water Resist.: 50m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

Dial indices are often applied using a hand-operated press, suggesting that minor imperfections might be a result of human involvement rather than purely automated processes.
While some imperfections might be within 'acceptable tolerance,' if a flaw consistently bothers the owner, contacting the manufacturer or service center is advisable.
The practice of 'valuable painting' for dials, as cited by AP service, is an unfamiliar term to some collectors, raising questions about manufacturing techniques.
For a luxury watch at a significant price point, especially one with a simple two-hand display, collectors expect flawless quality, and minor imperfections can be a source of disappointment.
Automated application of minute markers should ideally result in perfect alignment, and any visible misalignment warrants discussion with the brand.
Some brands, like A. Lange & Söhne, are noted for their consistently perfect dial quality, setting a high benchmark for other luxury manufacturers.

The Discussion

kunmoo

Jan 17, 2016

it is indeed a bit asymmetrical..

I wonder whether it is noticeable with bear eyes. I think it could be. and I really wonder what AP would say about this. I really hope AP provides you with satisfactory answer to this.

BABKA

Jan 17, 2016

I do see the minor separation difference. It is barely noticeable and you have a good eye.

If it bugs you, email AP. It may always be in the back of your mind later down the line. So, better to inquire about this now. In general, yes there can be flaws if you look up close at any brand. Although, I know some brands have much better quality control than others. I, for one, have never spotted any defects on A. Lange & Sohne pieces. I think they are truly perfect in every way. But APs sure are awesome. Best of luck with it!

reficul_x

Jan 18, 2016

Superb eye for details. I think you should ask AP about this

and maybe the rest who has this same watch should chime in. Perhaps it's a batch issue or just your unique piece. And maybe worth more if anyone see this as a particular interest.

Alex25

Jan 18, 2016

The haute horologerie is all about tiny details. Especially when you are short-sighted:)

But I doubt it may be of any added value to collectors.

pastaboy1939

Jan 18, 2016

IF it is, I wouldn't worry about it. The watch is a beauty. Enjoy

I have one also. This message has been edited by pastaboy1939 on 2016-01-18 06:36:40

NickO

Jan 18, 2016

Wow, the fact that you caught that is amazing!

I would never have spotted that! My first question is, how are the indices applied to the dial? If they are applied using a machine, they should be perfect. If they are applied by hand by a skilled watch maker, there will be a margin for imperfection. The next question then would be, what is an acceptable tolerance for error? I studied your photos, and the distance to the One appears to be around 60% further again than the distance to the Fifty-Nine. Honestly, I think that would bug me, so I'd p