Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15407ST Review
Review

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15407ST Review

By David_S · Apr 28, 2019 · 33 replies
David_S
WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum
33 replies12837 views0 photos
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David_S shares an in-depth review and stunning photographs of his new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked Ref. 15407ST, acquired after a multi-year wait. He provides a detailed analysis of its design, comparing it to other iconic sports watches, and praises the exceptional finishing of its openworked movement, offering a collector's perspective on this highly sought-after timepiece.

Friends,

As promised, see below some better pics of the 15407ST I received a few days ago after a multi-year wait, as well as an initial review.


Design:

This is my first RO, so I'll talk a bit about the overall model. The design is very angular and sharp, however, still surprising comfortable to wear. I would say that it's a bit harsher than the Nautilus (I own the 5990), almost as if Genta did the RO as the ebauche and the Nautilus as the final product... However, some may argue that the Nautilus is a bit softer. In my mind, they both have their merits, but I think the Nautilus is slightly more elegant while the RO has a tougher, more industrial design look. The size is great at 41mm, which is around my sweet spot. You can see it on the wrist (I have an average sized wrist) below:



One can certainly not argue that this is a discreet watch. As a matter of fact, it's a bit flashy. This, I believe is caused by the combination of a very shiny treatment of the steel on the bezel, inner bezel and bracelet, with the openwork and the gold parts. It's not too outrageous, but it's still somewhat more aggressive than what I'm used to wear. This my collection below for reference:


From top left to bottom right: Lange Triple Split, Patek 5270P, IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 75th Anniversary, Lange 1 Time Zone in Platinum, Patek 5990/1A, the RO, Vacheron Quai de l'Ile, Panerai Luminor Monopulsante 8 Days GMT PAM317, and Blancpain Fifty Fathom Ocean Commitment I. 

Movement:

What is certainly most striking is the quality of the finish of the openwork. It is simply outstanding! The skeletonized bridges display several gorgeous inward angles, polished to perfection. The contrast in color is also quite amazing with at least four different metal treatments that range from almost black around the mainspring, to silver, through a gun metal grey for the main bridge.The gold hands, balance wheel, balance wheel bridge, going train, oscillating weight, and markers finish the overall look of the watch. See some close ups below:








For once, the front side is more interesting the back side smile.

Final thoughts:

I really like this watch. It's a true pleasure to look at the time and I noticed I tend to do it very often in the course of the day smile. I'm quickly getting used to both it's outsized personality and the rather industrial design look of the RO. My one, small, nagging criticism is the small movement compared to the size of the watch when viewed from the back. It looks a bit lost in there... It's not a big issue as the view from the front is spectacular indeed. I hope you will enjoy the pictures. Bets, David

About the Panerai Luminor 1950 Ceramic 8 Days Chrono Monopulsante GMT Ref. PAM317

The PAM317 represents Panerai's approach to combining multiple complications within the Luminor 1950 series. This reference integrates chronograph, GMT, and extended power reserve functions in a ceramic construction, distinguishing it from standard time-only models in the collection.

The 44mm ceramic case houses the Calibre P.2004 movement and features a ceramic bezel with sapphire crystal protection. The case material extends to both the main body and bezel construction, creating a monochromatic appearance. Water resistance reaches 100 meters, while the movement provides the chronograph and GMT complications indicated in the model designation.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking technical complications within Panerai's contemporary offerings. The ceramic case material and multi-function movement position the PAM317 as a more complex alternative to basic Luminor models, targeting enthusiasts who prioritize both material innovation and mechanical sophistication in their collecting focus.

Specifications

Case
Ceramic
Diameter
44mm
Water Resist.
100m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
DA
David_S
Apr 28, 2019

I'm still extremely happy with it but at this level, we should be allowed to nitpick and nag like old wives.

TY
Tyo
Apr 28, 2019

I also appreciate your collection, every uses you might need is covered.

MR
mrds
Apr 28, 2019

I love this tension between the industrial, somewhat raw design and the excuisite finishing! Not a huge fan of what AP does in general, but with this piece they did everything just right. Thanks David for sharing this beauty with us. Regards, Daniel

DA
David_S
Apr 28, 2019

Yes, it’s very tough to get, maybe also because I’m a new AP client. Thanks for the comment on the collection. I may still need a true dress watch (maybe a VC two hands in platinum). And a Gshock...

DA
David_S
Apr 28, 2019

I agree that there are few pieces in the current AP catalogue that I find truly tempting, although I do like the black ceramic QP quite a bit...

M4
M4
Apr 28, 2019

The Royal Oak and your collection are top. M4

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