CIRCA: 1978
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless steel and yellow gold
CASE DIAMETER: 35 mm. wide
BRACELET MATERIAL: Stainless steel and yellow gold
BRACELET SIZE: Approx. 170 mm. overall length
DIAL: Grey with Khanjar emblem in white
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Date
BOX: Yes
PAPERS: Yes
WITH: Blank Certificate of Origin and Guarantee, Extract from the Archives, presentation box and outer packaging
REMARK: Made for the Sultanate of Oman

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Lot Essay

The Royal Oak reference 4100, referred to in the archives as the Royal Oak III, was designed by Jacqueline Dimier and debuted in 1977. It is the third model in the collection, after references 5402 and 8638. It was the first Royal Oak to have a central seconds hand, marking a significant shift in the lineage. It was designed to appeal to customers who felt that the original 39 mm 'Jumbo' was too big, especially in markets like Italy, the US, and Asia. The reference 4100 achieved the ideal balance between sportiness and elegance with its smaller 35 mm diameter. More than 8,400 pieces were made between 1977 and 1985, although still sold until 2002, and it was available in stainless steel, yellow gold, and two-tone versions.

Just beneath the Audemars Piguet logo at 12 o'clock, the highly sought-after Khanjar emblem of the Sultanate of Oman distinguishes this particular. The brand signature and the 'Automatic' inscription were subtly moved to 6 o'clock to make room for the esteemed national emblem. This unique and intriguing detail highlights the watch's unique commission status and increases its appeal to both Royal Oak and Middle Eastern-provenance collectors.

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Condition report

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The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

Movement: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing; however, a service is strongly recommended. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement. The date changes when the crown is in rest position. A overhaul by Audemars Piguet is recommended.
Dial: In nice overall condition: the surface presents discoloration around each indexes and imperfections throughout. Some spots are visible on the lower part of the dial.
Case: In very good overall condition with light scratches and dents. The case back has surface wear. Signs of previous polishing.
Bracelet: Some stretch. Scratches throughout. Signs of previous polishing.

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The condition of lots sold in our auctions can vary widely due to factors such as age, previous damage, restoration, repair and wear and tear. Their nature means that they will rarely be in perfect condition. Lots are sold "as is," in the condition they are in at the time of the sale, without any representation or warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to condition by Christie's or by the seller.

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