Is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15510ST with the blue dial actually worth the hype, and the price? I think so.
This is my owner review of the Royal Oak 15510ST after owning it for over a month: what I think of the watch, how I was able to get one at retail from Audemars Piguet, and whether I think the 15510ST is actually worth it.
- Reference
- 15510ST, Royal Oak Selfwinding
- Case
- 41mm stainless steel with exhibition caseback
- Dial
- Blue Grande Tapisserie
- Bracelet
- Integrated steel bracelet with AP folding clasp
- Wrist
- Worn here on a 7-inch wrist
- Bought
- At retail, as my third AP
Why the Royal Oak?
The Royal Oak has always been one of my favorite watches. Designed by the legendary Gérald Genta, it has become one of the most iconic luxury sports watches ever made. After years of wanting one, I finally added the 41mm AP Royal Oak 15510ST with the blue dial to my collection.
And after actually owning and wearing it, there were a few things that surprised me.
The Blue Grande Tapisserie Dial
The blue Grande Tapisserie dial can change from an almost black navy to a vivid blue depending on the lighting. In a deep shade of navy, the dial is very chameleon-like.
Bracelet, Case and Movement Finishing
The finishing is probably what impressed me most. From the bracelet to the case and movement, the level of detail is unlike almost anything else I've owned.
In the video I also share how it compares from a quality and finishing perspective to watches in my collection like my Rolex Daytona Panda and Cartier Santos.
How the 41mm Royal Oak Wears on a 7-Inch Wrist
Here is the 41mm case on my 7-inch wrist.
How I Got a Royal Oak 15510ST at Retail
My goal was for my fiancée and me to have Royal Oaks as our wedding watches. Our Audemars Piguet journey started with her 34mm ice blue Royal Oak, followed by my ceramic Royal Oak Offshore, and eventually led to this blue dial 15510ST as my third AP.
When it was clear my Royal Oak was next, I was able to pick what dial I wanted from any of the five 41mm dials. I only had one in mind: the 15510ST in blue. It has been my absolute grail. I am a big blue dial fan, and the Royal Oak is no exception.
The full story, with timelines and tips, is in my Audemars Piguet retail journey.
Is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15510ST Worth It?
For me, absolutely.
There are very few watches I've owned where I've become more impressed with the watch the longer I've had it. The blue dial is incredible, but it's the entire package (the bracelet, case finishing, movement, and overall quality) that has made this Royal Oak one of my favorite watches.
Retail vs. the Secondary Market
In the video I also share my thoughts on buying a blue Royal Oak at its secondary market price versus going through Audemars Piguet at retail, and why I now understand the incredible demand for this watch after actually owning one.
If you own a Royal Oak or are considering one, let me know what you think in the comments on the video. Would you buy the AP Royal Oak 15510ST blue dial at retail? What about at the grey market price?
The Royal Oak is only one side of AP. For the stranger, less familiar side of the catalogue, continue with our references to the Audemars Piguet Star Wheel and the hand-engraved ref. 14677 skeleton car watches.
