Vintage
HSTE's meticulous research uncovers a fascinating, underexplored chapter in Audemars Piguet history: Karl Lagerfeld's long-standing ownership of a unique, all-black Royal Oak Jumbo A-Series. This article delves into the provenance of this distinctive timepiece, offering a rare glimpse into the personal collection of an iconic figure and the enduring appeal of the original Royal Oak design. HSTE's personal acquisition of one of these watches provides an unparalleled perspective on its history and significance.
I wonder that it has not been more widely discussed yet in specialist Forums or Blogs that Karl Lagerfeld is a very long time owner of an AP Royal Oak Jumbo A-Series.
First hand evidence is given by himself in an interview in the "AD - Architerctural Digest" Sept/Oct 2011, page 64-66. KL is asked, whether he has an obsession about particular design objects. His answer (losely translated from the original French interview): (...) "but yes, I have some fetish objects, for example my watch which I wear since 35 years, a Royal Oak"(...)
The special thing about his A-Series Royal Oak is that IT IS COMPLETELY BLACK. As we know, KL - for most of his life - only wore two colors in combination: black and white. The story that I found out is that he had - ordered or been given - several AP RO A-Series, 1973 and 1974 which he wore himself and some of them he gave to very close staff.
I did some research into publicly available material and will try to attach pictures as follows:
- An early Picture (April 2, 1979) total and detail where the black AP RO is very well visible
- A still Picture from an October 23, 2003 interview on Television
- A still Picture from his documentary movie "Lagerfeld confidential" (2007) where he wears his black AP RO in the opening Scene (first few minutes of the movie)
I had a few years back the opportunity to get "the" / "one of the" KL black AP RO. It is an A-Series (A-12xx), delivered in 1973 to Italy. I assume that KL got it as a present as he gets so many things as a present like his cat, his Rolls Royce etc. I assume the watch has been blackened in Italy before being given to him. But this is speculation. The person however I bought the watch from knows that it comes from the KL "entourage".
Hope this is of interest
The Royal Oak reference 5402ST is recognized as the original "Jumbo" model, establishing the distinctive design language for the collection. This reference introduced the integrated bracelet, octagonal bezel secured by visible screws, and a slim profile that defined the luxury sports watch category upon its release. It represents the foundational execution of the Royal Oak concept in stainless steel.
The watch features a 39 mm stainless steel case, housing the self-winding caliber 2121. This movement provides a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. The case is fitted with an acrylic crystal and offers water resistance up to 50 meters. The blue dial, characterized by its "Petite Tapisserie" pattern, complements the brushed and polished finishes of the case and bracelet.
For collectors, the 5402ST holds significance as the initial series of the Royal Oak. Its design integrity and historical position within the brand's output make it a focal point for those interested in the development of contemporary watchmaking. The reference was produced from 1972 to 1980, with various series designations indicating production batches.
Was quite a bit fetishist with his Watch. Thank you, and welcome here! Best, Nicolas
Great pictures, great post, share more of your AP!!!! S
I never knew about this, great post and pics, love KL's work, so not surprised he has the good taste to go for a RO Jumbo :-) S
I wonder who else was an original owner of a RO A-Series? JerryW
Karl Lagerfeld, an amazing individual. A true trendsetter. Hmm, how would an all black Royal Oak look on my wrist?
Interestingly, in a Hodinkee article about Jack Heuer today, he mentions the inspiration for the PVD black Monaco was seeing Spain's King Juan Carlos I wearing a black Royal Oak.
This thread is active on the Audemars Piguet forum with 35 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.
Join the Discussion →
