This Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Reference 4100SA brings together rarity, elegance and historical significance in a way that is remarkable even within the Royal Oak family. The two-tone case of the early 1980s meets here with an original Tiffany & Co.-signed dial — an exceptional rarity for this reference.
Reference 4100 is the third Royal Oak reference ever produced, introduced in 1977 in response to growing demand from Asia and Italy. In those markets, the original 5402 "Jumbo" was considered stylistically groundbreaking, yet too large for many wrists. Audemars Piguet responded with a perfectly proportioned 35.5 mm variant, produced until around 1985 and now among the most sought-after mid-size versions.
This particular example, however, stands out even within that already rare lineage. Only a handful of early Royal Oaks are known with a Tiffany & Co. signature — and this watch belongs to the very few where the signature appears above the Audemars Piguet inscription, not at 6 o’clock as seen later. It is also the only Tiffany - signed example of Reference 4100 known to us, underlining its unique status.
The dial features the signature petite tapisserie, whose structure has developed a beautiful gold-grey shimmering patina over the decades. This soft, aged color tone lends the watch a true vintage elegance — something that cannot be fabricated, only earned through time.
Technically, Reference 4100 introduced two important milestones: it was the first Royal Oak to feature a central seconds hand, and it was the last version to use a non–screw-down crown — a charming detail later replaced in favor of increased sportiness.
The watch is completed by its two-tone bracelet, preserved in the same excellent condition as the case and dial. The combination of steel and yellow gold reflects the unmistakable aesthetic of the early 1980s — subtly luxurious, confident and iconically Royal Oak.
This 4100SA is far more than a Royal Oak: it represents an exceptionally rare chapter in Audemars Piguet’s history and a unique testament to the partnership between Tiffany & Co. and Audemars Piguet. The combination of extraordinary provenance, a rare signature, beautifully aged dial, and outstanding overall condition elevates this example to a Royal Oak of special importance — one that would hold a distinguished place in any significant collection.
Condition Report
Dial: original Tiffany-signed dial in excellent condition – petite tapisserie finish with natural patina – original tritium lume – gold-toned date wheel – signed "Tiffany & Co. Audemars Piguet Automatic".
Case: stainless steel and yellow gold case in excellent condition – very light signs of wear – sharp lines – crisp caseback engraving.
Movement: automatic AP Calibre 2123 is keeping very good time.
Bracelet: original integrated steel and gold bracelet – AP clasp – adjustable length between 19.2 and 21.8 cm.
Int.Exe.: 1456065