Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Mk2 White Dial (Ref. 14790ST), 1990s

Dealer description — Huntington Company

History and Significance The Royal Oak reference 14790 occupies an important place within the broader Royal Oak lineage. Introduced as the mid-size automatic offering, it carried all of the core Gérald Genta design language of the original 5402 while presenting it in a more restrained and wearable 36mm case. Today, the 14790 has become increasingly appreciated by collectors who want the proportions and character of early Royal Oaks without the larger footprint of modern references. This particular example is a Mark 2 configuration featuring the smaller tapisserie dial layout. Compared to later production dials, the earlier small-pattern tapisserie gives the watch a more refined and tightly detailed appearance. The printed signature, slimmer markers, and overall balance of negative space feel distinctly closer to transitional Royal Oaks of the late 1980s and early 1990s than the more commercialized direction the line would later take. What makes references like this compelling is the honesty of the design. The Royal Oak was never intended to hide wear. The sharp transitions between brushed and polished surfaces, exposed bezel screws, and integrated bracelet were designed to evolve through use. On unpolished examples especially, the geometry remains incredibly important, as the original case architecture and bracelet taper are what give the Royal Oak its unmistakable profile on the wrist. Writer’s Thoughts The 14790 continues to feel like one of the best-balanced Royal Oaks to actually wear regularly. The proportions are excellent, the bracelet sits naturally on the wrist, and the smaller tapisserie dial gives the watch a quieter and more vintage character than later executions. This example especially has the kind of honest wear that works well on a Royal Oak rather than taking away from it. Our Promise Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. Each piece is offered in honest condition, ensuring collectors receive a timepiece that reflects both originality and integrity. Specifications Brand: Audemars Piguet Model: Royal Oak Mid-Size (Ref. 14790ST) Year: circa 1990s Case Material: Stainless steel Case Size: 36mm Bezel: Stainless steel Royal Oak bezel Dial: White small tapisserie dial Movement: Automatic Strap/Bracelet: Stainless steel bracelet Buckle/Clasp: Audemars Piguet folding clasp Contents: Watch only Condition Case: Unpolished case showing honest wear throughout with visible surface scratching and strong overall case geometry retained. Bezel edges remain well defined overall. Dial: Clean overall with crisp printing and attractive small tapisserie texture throughout. Hands: Original handset remains in very good overall condition with light wear visible under close inspection. Crystal: Clean overall, with no visible wear. Strap/Bracelet: Bracelet remains in strong overall condition with very little stretch and surface wear consistent with age and use. Buckle/Clasp: Clasp remains in very good overall condition with light surface wear visible throughout.