Year: Circa 2005
Reference No: 25860ST
Case No: F29’954, No. 8903
Model Name: Royal Oak Chronograph “Kasparov”
Material: Stainless steel
Calibre: Automatic, cal. 2385, 37 jewels
Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet bracelet, max length 175mm
Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet deployant clasp
Accessories: Accompanied by Audemars Piguet fitted presentation box, outer packaging and Harrods service invoice dated 17th April 2019.
The Royal Oak Chronograph reference 25860 was introduced by Audemars Piguet in 1997 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the first Royal Oak. Paying homage to the original “Jumbo”, it maintains the original dimensions with a diameter of 39mm. With expertise in creating ultra-thin watches at that period, Audemars Piguet achieved a remarkable feat by incorporating one of the thinnest self-winding chronograph movements of its time, the calibre 2385, into this watch.
The present example features a highly desirable blue dial, which is arguably the most popular color among collectors. While earlier production models were equipped with a "petite tapisserie" pattern on the dial, the current example showcases a "grand tapisserie" pattern, providing a larger and more contemporary aesthetic. The folding clasp has also been upgraded to the signature "AP" logo, a detail that is highly sought-after by collectors. Notably, this clasp design is no longer used in the current Royal Oak models, adding to its desirability.
Furthermore, this particular reference gained significant popularity because it was created as a tribute to the renowned chess Grandmaster Garry Kasparov. Kasparov wore this watch during his professional games and would always take it off his wrist before making his final winning moves. As an Audemars Piguet brand ambassador, the watch has been nicknamed "Kasparov" by collectors and has become a favorite among the Royal Oak Chronograph lineage.
The present watch has been serviced by Harrods in April 2019.