History of Royal Oak

[fsprow]

Having just bought a 15500 a few months ago, I am pleased to say that I am now an owner of a Royal Oak. My background with this model watch dates from late 1971 when, after a hunting trip with Shah Pahlavi of Iran in New Mexico, I was invited by him to join in an Ibex hunt in Iran and also the celebration in Persepolis of the 2500th anniversary of the Iranian monarchy. During that time, the Shah excitedly showed me his new wristwatch, the very first Royal Oak. I believe he had met Gerald Genta at some point and told Audemars that he wanted the first example, which they did not refuse. Every time I look at this beautiful watch and particularly its bracelet, I remember that wonderful experience in Iran.

Just thought I would share this.

[Patton250]

Wow great story. Thanks for sharing it.

[Jgives]

Incredible story. I wasn’t familiar with the Shah, but after a quick wiki download he sounds like an amazing person. I’m sure many miss his type of leadership there.

[Caramba]

The same story is confirmed in this interesting article.

"The First Owner of the Royal Oak
Then there are the two watches that became intrinsically linked with the Shah of Iran. Both watches, representative of 1970s style codes, were designed by Gérald Genta. And it all began with a simple pencil sketch catching the discerning eye of the monarch, who was an avid design enthusiast.

On the strength of the drawings alone, the Shah became captivated by the idea of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and ordered the very first one. He was to remain the watch's top customer with his own model crafted in white gold."

[dauster]

Very cool. Interesting for sure.

[Razorsedge1]

Originally Posted by fsprow

Having just bought a 15500 a few months ago, I am pleased to say that I am now an owner of a Royal Oak. My background with this model watch dates from late 1971 when, after a hunting trip with Shah Pahlavi of Iran in New Mexico, I was invited by him to join in an Ibex hunt in Iran and also the celebration in Persepolis of the 2500th anniversary of the Iranian monarchy. During that time, the Shah excitedly showed me his new wristwatch, the very first Royal Oak. I believe he had met Gerald Genta at some point and told Audemars that he wanted the first example, which they did not refuse. Every time I look at this beautiful watch and particularly its bracelet, I remember that wonderful experience in Iran.

Just thought I would share this.

Cool story! The world certainly changed when Shah fled Iran. Enjoy your 15500!

[Sim1]

Awesome!!

[rtanjaya]

Wow! Thanks for sharing

[mjclark32]

Pretty amazing

[Xerxes77]

Nice story

[sgwatchguy]

What an interesting story, those must have been great times. Congrats on your RO and enjoy the timepiece.

[Vivalas]

Great story.