Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202 Long-Term Review

dr.kol · 2017-04-29T02:19:05Z

A collector's long-term review of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202, comparing it to the Patek Philippe 5711 and detailing service experiences.

dr.kol

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

28 replies7732 views6 photos

dr.kol shares his experience with the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202, celebrating its design and movement after a significant service experience. His post highlights the watch's aesthetic appeal and compares it favorably to the Patek Philippe 5711, while also touching upon the challenges of after-sales service.

28 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

I have always loved the design and the beautifully decorated movement.

I have often felt that as a watch RO 15202 is even finer than PP 5711.

The only issue is that 15202 is not a watch to swim with while 5711 I will take one day for scuba diving.

I would like to thank Mr. Antonio Seward, GM of AP SE Asia, who decided about the changing of the entire movement of my RO perpetual and to replace my 15202. If both watches will somehow function, like it looks now, the issue is closed from my side.

I have Patek 5980/1A with me but I really can't get 15202 from my wrist.

Best, Kari

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

One collector experienced recurring rotor issues and a missing clasp component with their 15202, leading to multiple overhauls and prolonged service times, highlighting potential quality control issues.
The two-year and two-month resolution time for the author's issues with AP was deemed unacceptable by community members, severely impacting trust and reputation despite the eventual satisfactory outcome.
Despite the service issues, the author expressed immense satisfaction with the replacement 15202 and the perpetual calendar's movement change, indicating that AP ultimately resolved the problems to his contentment.
The Royal Oak 15202 is praised for its textured dial, the lightness and heft of its hands, and the angular bezel, all contributing to its perceived perfection.
The author's preference for the 15202 over the Patek Philippe 5711, despite the latter's suitability for swimming, underscores the subjective appeal and distinct characteristics of these iconic sports watches.

The Discussion

Alkiro1

Apr 29, 2017

That's not exactly "buy one, get one free" ;-) but it's a very nice gesture from AP

Enjoy your new RO Kari. Best wishes Alkiro

dr.kol

Apr 29, 2017

I think that in the end AP did what was the right thing to do. [nt]

Alkiro1

Apr 29, 2017

Agree with you

Best wishes Alkiro

nilomis

Apr 29, 2017

I'm happy that your AP saga seems to end ...

Kari, Two years and two months to close your issues! Your saga put a big bad mark on AP, for sure. Cheers, Nilo

dr.kol

Apr 29, 2017

Yes and no.

They tried to fix the watches and when they couldn't, the other was changed as well as the movement of the other. The best solution I think. Best, Kari

Arie - Mr Orange

Apr 30, 2017

It remains a scary thought that AP couldn't fix their own fresh from the factory delivered products :-0

But finally it all ended well!