Description

The present watch is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 14790ST, distinguished by one of the most captivating and elusive dial variations of the neo‑vintage era—the so‑called “Yves Klein” blue. While not an official designation, collectors have long adopted the term to describe this intensely saturated, almost electric shade of blue, reminiscent of the patented IKB 191 pigment made famous by the French artist. Within the Royal Oak universe, few dials command such immediate attention.

Introduced in 1992, the reference 14790 brought a more refined 36mm case to the Royal Oak lineup, offering a perfectly balanced interpretation of Gérald Genta’s original design. Its slimmer proportions and versatility have since made it one of the most beloved mid-sized Royal Oaks. In this configuration, the simplicity of the time-and-date display allows the dial to take center stage—where the vivid blue “Petite Tapisserie” pattern comes alive under changing light.

This example belongs to the second series of the 14790, identifiable by subtle yet important design details: a distinct AP signature with double-cap lettering, thicker hands, and elongated hour markers. These nuances, while minor at first glance, are highly regarded among collectors who appreciate the evolution within the reference.

Powering the watch is the ultra-thin Calibre 2225, based on the Jaeger-LeCoultre 889 ébauche. This movement enabled the Royal Oak to maintain its elegant 7.5mm profile, reinforcing the model’s identity as a luxury sports watch that wears as comfortably as a dress piece.

Interestingly, research suggests that these rare blue dials were likely produced by Stern Frères, the same dial maker behind early Royal Oaks, adding another layer of historical significance. Produced in very small numbers and never formally limited, the “Yves Klein” dial appeared briefly in the 1990s before disappearing—its scarcity today only adding to its mystique.

Among mid-sized Royal Oaks, the 14790ST stands as one of the purest executions. With this extraordinary blue dial, it becomes something more: a collector’s piece defined by color, rarity, and quiet legend.

Audemars Piguet – bio

Audemars Piguet is a Swiss manufacturer of mechanical watches founded in 1875. They began in the Vallée de Joux. Jules Louis Audemars formed a partnership with Edward Auguste Piguet. Audemars created complicated blank watch movements for other manufactures to use. Piguet specialized in the final regulation of watches. They then split responsibilities when they began their own company. Audemars was in charge of production and technical aspects while Piguet focused on sales and management. One of their first achievements was creating the first repeater wristwatch in 1892 and in 1972 the iconic steel “Royal Oak”.