Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 5402

Hey Guys, Long time lurker but first time seller. It is with a heavy heart that I have decided to sell my favorite watch, a watch that belongs in the history books, or in the hands of a serious collector looking for a piece of history. For sale is my 1972 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Reference 5402st. This is a true "A-Series" watch, coming from the first set of 1000 Royal Oak watches produced (there are is a second set of A-Series RO's with SN's above 1000) and has every single trait you should expect to see on the earliest of Royal Oaks. It is in very good condition with original dial - with "AP" at 6 o'clock, and signed "Swiss" only, just as it should be The bracelet is marked Gay Freres and dated to 1972 as well. The watch was serviced less than a year ago and as such, has an AP-signed crown. I did this because this is a watch meant to be worn and I wanted it to be waterproof (though I never, ever took it into water) and if you are looking for a period perfect watch, an unsigned crown can easily be sourced and put on. Over all condition is very good, with scuffs and such commensurate with a 40 year old watch, though almost nothing is noticeable while wearing it. There is some mild flaking on the original tapisserie dial, though again you would only notice it under intense scrutiny. Bracelet and clasp are original and in good shape, as seen in pictures. Bezel is practically scratch free. I've been following the market on these watches closely and it seems the going rate at auction is around 35k CHF, but I'm looking for a quick and easy sale (new home, wife, and baby will do it to you!) at $26,000 OBO shipped. Willing to hear all reasonable offers. The watch is in NYC to be shown anytime. This watch has been in my family for many years and I would really like to see it go to a good home, to be worn by someone who appreciates just how special the RO Jumbo is and what it has meant to AP and the industry as a whole. Three day inspection offered All the best, Aiden