Service
Dr.kol shares a deeply frustrating experience with two new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watches, a Perpetual Calendar ref. 25820ST and a Royal Oak ref. 15202, both of which repeatedly stopped working shortly after purchase or service. His candid account highlights significant concerns about quality control within Audemars Piguet, particularly regarding the Caliber 2120 movement. This post serves as a critical discussion point for brand accountability and collector expectations.
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.
Is this bad luck? Not so sure, I have had many problems with my 5402ST as well and it has always been serviced at the same place, where you met Mr Thomas Rubi, who, by the way is a very nice gentleman. Now the watch is functioning perfectly well and I am a happy man. I can understand now why you are a Patek Philippe man, and it is obviously not for lack of trying with AP. Cheers Francois
and to his credit I must say that he was not totally comfortable testing my watch just for a week after the repairs. At the same time I heard that the waiting lists for 15202 are long. So I guess the quality control of Audemars Piguet has collapsed. I will post a real story later about the service of Patek vs. Audemars Piguet. It's a story about one minor issue but it clearly tells why Patek is so superior. All the best, Kari
Thanks tough for sharing, because only a broad public can motivate AP as any other brand to improve. I followed your sad experiences for a while now in these forums, but this is just the cherry on top. Two watches, hardly worn but reliably fail. Really sounds embarrassing for AP and I wonder how many others are out there with the same or something else, and yet nobody knows about it. Yes, and before it rains down on me: I know that there are also working models out there. From an outsider's pers
when the prices are what they are. In my books AP is simply not worth the money we pay for their watches. And the kind of watches I bought should never have hit the shelves of the shop. Best, Kari
will be my nice 5402 with box & papers. AP can do a full overall service and then I sell the watch or give as a present to somebody. The perpetual RO I can't afford to sell. When carrying this watch out from the shop, over 50% of the value is vaporising into the air. So it's also in that respect like the Russian Lada car. Reliability is also very similar... Best, Kari
must not be such hassle and mental torture to know they are not in good order. Hope all turns out better.
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