This is the story of the restoration of a highly coveted Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 'Jumbo' reference 5402SA. The watch in question belongs to our Editor and Publisher, a true grail piece from one of the most iconic references in horology. This particular model, dating back to 1978, is part of the exclusive batch of two-tone Royal Oak Jumbos —the only series ever made in this configuration— of which only 951 pieces of this reference exist, with the serial number of this specific watch being under 300. It’s a rare and highly collectible piece in the Royal Oak lineage. This particular watch was once owned by Jorge Rojo Lugo —former governor of the Mexican state of Hidalgo— after it was gifted to him by former Mexican president José Lopez Portillo.
Given its age and the fact that it’s passed through multiple owners before landing in its final hands, the watch required significant restoration. The movement needed a complete overhaul, while the dial had suffered from flaking, leading Audemars Piguet to insist on a replacement as part of the service, as they wouldn't service the original dial. The bezel and case also required serious attention — the bezel had become overly rounded and thin, to the point where Audemars Piguet advised that this would be the last time it could be refinished. Despite the challenges, the restoration process has brought this legendary timepiece back to life, preserving its place as a true icon.
Audemars Piguet in Le Brassus serviced this piece and it took almost six months. By the pictures, you can tell that it almost looks like new and to be quite honest, there is no one other than Audemars Piguet in Le Brassus to refinish a Royal Oak to its original appearance. Just pay attention to the chamfers, bezel and case.
The History Behind The Watch
This watch was first purchased back in 1998. At the time, this was our Editor's third Royal Oak 5402 Jumbo. The watch was in good shape and running strong. This was one of his favorite Royal Oaks and it was purchased during a very successful time in his career. After a couple of years of ownership, the watch was sold. In 2004, the watch was repurchased from the person that it was sold to but in terrible condition and not running anymore. After several weeks, a talented watchmaker brought it back to life. Two years later, our Editor sold the watch one more time. Fast forward to 2008, and that's when our Editor stumbled upon a for sale listing with pictures of a watch that looked exactly like the one he had let go for the second time—the flaking on the dial was so unique that he was almost 100% sure it was his old piece. Immediately, he emailed the seller and asked if the serial number on the watch was 2XX. The seller replied the following day and confirmed that indeed that was the number. As any other watchlifestyler would do, he decided to purchase the watch back one more time.
Finally, in 2012 with the watch still running, our Editor decided to finally get a full service to bring his precious possession back to mint condition. Today, the watch is fully restored and looking almost like new. All original parts including the dial where returned by Audemars Piguet. The final result of this restoration is just superb.
The last picture at the bottom is one of the watch before the major overhaul. BIG KUDOS to Audemars Piguet in Le Brassus.
This is what we call top notch restoration service! For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.
