THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: AUDERMARS PIGUET
MODEL: 25548BA
YEAR: 1986
BOX/PAPERS: NO/YES (Archive)
CASE DIAMETER: 36mm
CASE MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
BRACELET MATERIAL: LEATHER
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
Introduced in the late 1970s, the reference 25548 represents a lineage of exceptional timepieces from the esteemed watchmaker Audemars Piguet. Established in 1875 by Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet, the brand has become synonymous with innovation, technical expertise, and timeless design. The reference 25548, originally launched as the 5548, exemplifies these values by masterfully integrating classical aesthetics with advanced engineering.
This iconic model was designed by Jacqueline Dimier, one of the most influential figures in watchmaking. Dimier, who joined Audemars Piguet in the 1970s, played a crucial role in evolving the brand's design language, following in the footsteps of Gérald Genta, the mastermind behind the Royal Oak. Her vision for the 5548 was to create a watch that balances opulence with subtle elegance, resulting in a timepiece that is both striking and understated.
The 25548 in question is from the latter part of its production, spanning from 1984 to 1991. Overall, only 2183 pieces of 5548/25548 were made in total, a number far lower than the daily production of Rolex watches. Yellow gold examples such as this one are the most common (2070 pieces), followed by white gold, platinum, steel, and pink gold.
Inside, the renowned ultra-thin calibre 2120/2800 movement powers the watch. The 5548 was the first to feature this movement, which enjoyed great success over the next two decades before being retired in the mid-1990s.
This particular watch is in superb condition, having been serviced by Audemars Piguet in 2021, and it remains in perfect working order, running at -3 seconds per day, with an amplitude of 260 and a beat error of 0.0. It comes with two leather straps, one brown and one black, and its original gold pin buckle. The Extract of the Archive is also included.
Given its complexity, rarity, and prestige, it is truly remarkable that this watch remains much more affordable than a modern steel Royal Oak. This underscores the exceptional value it offers to discerning collectors.