Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Dual Time Steel Full Set 25730ST
The Dual-Time Royal is a highly functional, elegant, and no longer in production complication within the iconic Royal Oak family, cementing the reference 25730ST as somewhat of a neo-vintage gem. This particular example features a somewhat transitional dial layout with the smooth hour track, petite tapisserie pattern at the center, and the mixed caps signature discretely tucked in the second time zone display at 6 o’clock. The perfectly balanced and interesting dial complications combined with an excellent unpolished case in a quite perfect size, and a very full set make this already great example a top lot.
Case: The 36 x 46 x 9.8 mm case is in excellent unpolished condition and extremely clean throughout, retaining all its original and correct finishes, angles, bevels, edges, and corners. The case is exceptional throughout showing one minor surface blemish at the 9:20 section of the bezel, just below the screw, that is only visible at certain angles, no noticeable on wrist, and extremely minor.
Dial: The matte-black (a rarity in Royal Oaks), almost chalkboard like dial is perfect and free from any defects. The luminova lume on the hands, hour markers, and second time zone match and faintly glow after being exposed to light. This is a dial that absolutely needs to be experienced in person, as the “porthole effect” and light-sucking matte black surface means the silver-gilt printing and markings all absolutely jump off the wrist. In brighter and more abundant lighting conditions, the dial comes alive showcasing the various finishes, rich matte texture, and intricate steps throughout. It’s certainly one that I never “got” in photos but completely fell in love with once I had it in hand. The silver-gilt printing is perhaps the un-sung hero of this dial adding a bit more richness and personality to typical printing.
Movement: The AP Caliber 2229-2845 is based on a JLC ebauche and running very well at approximately +4 s/d. All functions are cleverly adjusted through the crown and somehow maintain a thin and very well balanced and perfectly wearing package.
Bracelet: The bracelet is believe to be fully linked and will fit a 8” wrist (+/-) and even includes the sought after 1.5 link to dial in fit. All links are in very good condition and the bracelet is very solid and tight throughout, with crisp and confident clasp engagement.
Includes: Outer box, the iconic hexagonal padded inner box, certificate of guarantee, and serially matched hang tag.
