The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Just the name evokes images of luxury, prestige, and horological excellence. Its distinctive octagonal bezel, "Tapisserie" dial, and integrated bracelet have made it an icon, instantly recognizable and highly coveted. However, with prices starting in the tens of thousands and often reaching into the hundreds of thousands of dollars, owning a Royal Oak remains a dream for most watch enthusiasts. This is where the concept of an "AP look alike" comes into play. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of watches that capture the essence of the Royal Oak's design aesthetic, offering stylish alternatives without the exorbitant price tag. We'll explore what makes a watch an "AP look alike," what to look for, and provide actionable insights to help you find the perfect timepiece that echoes the Royal Oak's legendary style.

Understanding the Allure of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

Before diving into "look alikes," it's crucial to understand what makes the Royal Oak so desirable. Designed by the legendary Gérald Genta and released in 1972, the Royal Oak was revolutionary. It was the first luxury sports watch crafted from stainless steel, a bold move at a time when precious metals were the norm for high-end timepieces. Its key design elements include:

• Octagonal Bezel: Perhaps the most defining feature, the octagonal bezel with its exposed screws is instantly recognizable. It's not just a shape; it's a statement of industrial chic blended with luxury.
• "Tapisserie" Dial: The intricately patterned "Tapisserie" dial, often featuring a "Grande Tapisserie" or "Petite Tapisserie" guilloché design, adds depth and texture, playing beautifully with light.
• Integrated Bracelet: The seamless integration of the bracelet into the case creates a cohesive and sophisticated look. The bracelet itself is typically meticulously crafted with alternating brushed and polished surfaces, adding to the overall luxurious feel.
• Thin Profile: Despite its robust appearance, the Royal Oak is surprisingly thin, contributing to its comfortable wearability and refined elegance.
• Luxury Materials and Craftsmanship: Audemars Piguet utilizes high-quality materials, meticulous finishing, and in-house movements, solidifying its position as a top-tier luxury watchmaker.

These elements combined create a timepiece that is both sporty and elegant, robust and refined. It's this unique blend that makes the Royal Oak so iconic and sought after.

What Exactly is an "AP Look Alike"? (and What it is NOT)

An "AP look alike" is a watch that draws inspiration from the design elements of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. It aims to capture the same aesthetic essence – the octagonal bezel, integrated bracelet style, and overall sporty-luxury feel – but at a significantly more accessible price point. It's important to distinguish "look alikes" from counterfeit or replica watches.

• Not a Counterfeit: A genuine "look alike" is NOT a fake Audemars Piguet. It will not bear the Audemars Piguet branding, logos, or attempt to deceive buyers into thinking it's a real Royal Oak. Counterfeit watches are illegal and unethical, often of poor quality, and actively harm the luxury watch industry.
• Inspired Design: "Look alikes" are inspired by the Royal Oak's design language. They borrow design cues but operate under their own brand identity. This is a common practice in many industries, including fashion and automotive, where design inspiration is often drawn from iconic and successful products.
• Affordable Alternatives: The primary appeal of an "AP look alike" is affordability. They provide an opportunity to enjoy a similar aesthetic to the Royal Oak without the astronomical cost.
• Homage Watches: In the watch community, "look alikes" are often referred to as "homage watches" when they are well-executed and respect the original design while offering their own unique value proposition.

In essence, an "AP look alike" is a legitimate watch in its own right, offering a design that pays tribute to the Royal Oak while being distinct and accessible.

Key Design Elements to Look For in an AP Look Alike

When searching for a quality "AP look alike," focusing on specific design elements will help you find a watch that truly captures the Royal Oak spirit. Here's what to prioritize:

1. The Octagonal Bezel

This is the most crucial element. Look for watches with a clearly defined octagonal bezel. Consider:

• Shape Accuracy: Is the octagon well-defined and symmetrical? Some cheaper alternatives may have a poorly formed or less distinct octagon.
• Exposed Screws: The exposed screws on the Royal Oak bezel are functional and a key design feature. Look for watches that emulate this, although the functionality of the screws may vary.
• Finishing: The Royal Oak bezel typically features a combination of brushed and polished surfaces. A good "look alike" will attempt to replicate this contrast, adding to the perceived quality.
• Bezel Material: Stainless steel is the most common and authentic material for an "AP look alike" bezel.

2. The Dial and "Tapisserie" Texture

While not all "look alikes" will feature a true "Tapisserie" dial, some attempt to emulate the textured pattern. Consider:

• Textured Dial: Look for dials with some form of texture or pattern that adds depth and visual interest, moving beyond a flat, plain dial. Some may use a stamped pattern to mimic the "Tapisserie" look.
• Dial Color: Classic Royal Oak dial colors like blue, silver, black, and grey are common in "look alikes" and contribute to the overall aesthetic.
• Indices and Hands: Stick indices and baton-style hands are typical of the Royal Oak style. Look for clean and legible designs.

3. The Integrated Bracelet Style

The integrated bracelet is another hallmark of the Royal Oak design. Assess:

• Seamless Integration: Does the bracelet flow smoothly from the case without looking like an afterthought? A well-integrated bracelet is crucial for achieving the intended look.
• Bracelet Material and Finish: Stainless steel is the expected material. Look for bracelets with a combination of brushed and polished links, mirroring the Royal Oak's bracelet finishing.
• Bracelet Comfort and Quality: While visual similarity is important, consider the comfort and quality of the bracelet. Solid end links and a well-constructed clasp contribute to a better overall experience.

4. Case Shape and Overall Proportions

The overall case shape and proportions should contribute to the sporty-elegant aesthetic. Consider:

• Case Material: Stainless steel is the standard for Royal Oak-inspired watches.
• Case Size: Royal Oaks come in various sizes. Choose a case size that suits your wrist and personal preference. Common sizes for "look alikes" range from 40mm to 42mm.
• Case Thickness: While achieving the ultra-thinness of a Royal Oak movement is unlikely at lower price points, look for watches that aren't excessively thick and maintain a relatively sleek profile.

Top Brands and Models Offering AP Look Alike Styles

Many brands offer watches that incorporate elements of the Royal Oak design. Here are some notable examples across different price ranges:

• Tissot PRX: The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is a highly popular and well-regarded "AP look alike." It features an integrated bracelet, a textured dial reminiscent of "Tapisserie," and a sporty-chic aesthetic. It offers excellent value for money and is widely praised for its quality and design execution.
• Seiko 5 Sports (Certain Models): Some Seiko 5 Sports models, particularly those with integrated bracelets and textured dials, lean towards the Royal Oak aesthetic. While not a direct homage, they offer a sporty and versatile option with Seiko's renowned reliability.
• Christopher Ward The Twelve: The Christopher Ward The Twelve is a more premium option that directly embraces the integrated bracelet sports watch style. It features a twelve-sided bezel (slightly different from an octagon but in the same spirit), a beautifully textured dial, and high-quality finishing, placing it in a higher price bracket but still significantly more affordable than a Royal Oak.
• Bulova Royal Oak (Vintage): Interestingly, Bulova produced a watch in the 1970s actually named "Royal Oak" before Audemars Piguet trademarked the name in the US. These vintage Bulova Royal Oaks are now sought after by collectors and represent a fascinating piece of watch history. However, they are vintage and can be harder to find and maintain.
• Casio Edifice (Certain Models): Some Casio Edifice models with octagonal bezels and integrated bracelet styles offer a more budget-friendly entry point into the "AP look alike" category. They are typically quartz watches but provide a robust and stylish option for everyday wear.
• Pagani Design PD-1690: Brands like Pagani Design, often categorized as "homage brands," offer very affordable watches that directly mimic the Royal Oak design. While quality may vary, they provide a very accessible entry point for those primarily interested in the visual style. Exercise caution and read reviews before purchasing from such brands.

This is not an exhaustive list, and many other brands offer watches that capture elements of the Royal Oak style. Exploring different brands and models within your budget is key to finding the perfect "AP look alike" for you.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an AP Look Alike

Beyond just aesthetics, consider these factors when selecting your "AP look alike":

• Budget: Determine your budget upfront. "AP look alikes" range from under $100 to several thousand dollars. Higher budgets generally allow for better quality materials, movements, and finishing.
• Movement Type: Consider whether you prefer a quartz or automatic movement. Quartz watches are generally more affordable and low-maintenance, while automatic movements offer a more traditional watchmaking experience and often have a smoother seconds hand sweep.
• Quality and Materials: Pay attention to the materials used in the case, bracelet, and crystal (sapphire crystal is preferable for scratch resistance). Read reviews and research the brand's reputation for quality.
• Brand Reputation: Opting for established and reputable brands, even in the "look alike" category, generally provides better quality control, warranty, and customer support.
• Features and Functionality: Consider any desired features, such as water resistance, date function, or chronograph.
• Personal Style and Fit: Ultimately, choose a watch that you personally like and that fits comfortably on your wrist. Consider the case size, bracelet adjustability, and overall wearability.

Where to Buy AP Look Alike Watches

You can find "AP look alike" watches from various sources:

• Authorized Dealers: For brands like Tissot, Seiko, and Christopher Ward, purchasing from authorized dealers ensures authenticity and warranty coverage.
• Online Retailers: Reputable online watch retailers like Amazon, Watchmaxx, and Jomashop (exercise caution with grey market dealers and ensure they are reputable) offer a wide selection of brands and models.
• Brand Websites: Directly purchasing from the brand's website is often a good option, especially for brands like Christopher Ward and Tissot.
• Watch Forums and Communities: Watch forums and online communities can be valuable resources for recommendations and finding pre-owned "look alikes" in good condition.

Conclusion: Embracing the Royal Oak Style Affordably

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is an iconic timepiece that has inspired countless watch enthusiasts and designers. While owning a genuine Royal Oak may be out of reach for many, the world of "AP look alike" watches offers a fantastic alternative. By understanding the key design elements of the Royal Oak and carefully considering your budget and preferences, you can find a watch that captures the essence of this legendary design without compromising on style or breaking the bank. Embrace the sporty-luxury aesthetic, explore the options available, and enjoy the satisfaction of wearing a timepiece that echoes the iconic Royal Oak, making its distinctive style accessible to a wider audience.

FAQ: Common Questions About AP Look Alike Watches

Are "AP look alike" watches legal?

Yes, "AP look alike" watches are legal as long as they do not infringe on trademarks or copyrights. Legitimate "look alikes" operate under their own brand names and do not attempt to pass themselves off as genuine Audemars Piguet watches. Counterfeit watches, on the other hand, are illegal.

Are "AP look alike" watches good quality?

Quality varies greatly depending on the brand and price point. Watches from reputable brands like Tissot, Seiko, and Christopher Ward generally offer good quality for their price. Very cheap "homage" brands may have lower quality materials and movements. Research and read reviews before purchasing.

How much do "AP look alike" watches cost?

Prices range from under $100 for very affordable options to several thousand dollars for higher-end "look alikes" from brands like Christopher Ward. The price depends on the brand, materials, movement, and overall quality.

Are "AP look alike" watches considered "homage watches"?

Yes, in the watch community, well-executed "AP look alike" watches are often referred to as "homage watches," acknowledging their inspiration from the Royal Oak design while being distinct products in their own right.

Where can I find the best "AP look alike" watches?

Reputable brands like Tissot, Seiko, and Christopher Ward offer excellent "AP look alike" options. Explore online retailers, authorized dealers, and brand websites. Watch forums and communities can also provide recommendations.

Is it ethical to buy an "AP look alike" watch?

Yes, it is ethical to buy a legitimate "AP look alike" watch that is not a counterfeit. These watches are legal products that offer a design inspired by the Royal Oak but are sold under different brand names. It is unethical and illegal to buy counterfeit watches.

References and Sources:

1. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Collection (Official Website)
2. Tissot PRX Collection (Official Website)
3. Christopher Ward The Twelve Collection (Official Website)
4. Seiko 5 Sports Collection (Official Website)
5. Fratello Watches - The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak at 50: A Retrospective (Watch Blog - Historical Context)
6. Hodinkee - A Complete Guide to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak (Watch Blog - In-depth Information)