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Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 5402ST C-series

ProbableCredible evidence exists but classification is not fully established.

Record status

Individual type · partial

Period

1970s

Maker / issuer

Audemars Piguet

This Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 5402ST, identified as a C-series example, is a self-winding wristwatch featuring an integrated stainless steel bracelet.

Designed by Gérald Genta and first introduced at the 1972 Basel Fair, the watch is noted for its slim 7mm case thickness. The dial displays the characteristic "Petite Tapisserie" pattern and features the AP logo positioned at the 6 o'clock location, a variant referred to as "AP Down." A date display is situated at the 3 o'clock position. The auction description reports that the dial exhibits signs of natural age and the case is maintained in a strong condition.

This specimen belongs to the early production period of the reference 5402ST, often categorized by the C-series designation.

Evidence at a glance

Linked sources
1
Photograph views
1
Catalogue references
0

Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.

Technical characteristics

Type
Self-winding wristwatch
Maker
Audemars Piguet
Designer
Gérald Genta
Reference
5402ST
Dial pattern
Petite Tapisserie
Case material
Stainless steel
Logo position
AP Down at 6 o'clock
Case thickness
7mm
Place recorded
Switzerland
Maker / attribution
Audemars Piguet

Design

Design and Case
The watch features a stainless steel case with a measured thickness of 7mm, designed by Gérald Genta. The case maintains a distinct octagonal bezel secured by exposed screws, a configuration that defined the model's profile upon its introduction. The source describes the case as strong, reflecting the preserved physical integrity of this specific C-series example from the 1970s.
Visible features
• Octagonal bezel secured by eight hexagonal screws • Date window at 3 o'clock • Integrated steel bracelet with tapering links • AP logo applied at the bottom of the dial
Origin and Status
This C-series watch represents an early production run of the reference 5402ST. As noted by the source, the information provided is based on the seller's catalogue, and no independent authentication or technical inspection has been performed to verify the current internal movement condition or the history of service. The provenance of the model is linked to the 1972 launch, marking a transition in luxury sports watch design. The watch is presented as an untouched, authentic example of this specific production series.
Dial Configuration
The dial is decorated with the "Petite Tapisserie" pattern. This iteration is classified as an "AP Down" variant, indicating that the Audemars Piguet logo is applied at the 6 o'clock position rather than at the 12 o'clock position. The date window is located at 3 o'clock, integrated into the grid structure of the dial. According to the source, the dial exhibits light, natural signs of aging consistent with the passage of time, while remaining in an original state.

Identification

Reference
5402ST
Source note
Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.

Catalogue references

No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.

Research required

  • Research required: The source states it has not independently verified technical health or authenticity of individual components.
  • Research required: No specific details are provided regarding the service history or potential replacement parts.
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