Audemars Piguet 5388 - Integrated WG Blue Sunburst Dial
Mid-Century Audemars At Its Purest
Before the Royal Oak redefined the brand as a sports watch powerhouse, Audemars Piguet was the master of the ultra-thin, integrated dress watch. This Ref. 5388 is a definitive example of that 1970s mastery. It is a seamless piece of white gold architecture where the distinction between the case and the bracelet effectively disappears. In an era where most luxury houses were playing with yellow gold, this white gold execution offers a much cooler, more industrial aesthetic that feels surprisingly contemporary fifty years later.
Blue Sunburst And White Gold
The dial is a deep blue sunburst that provides a sharp, metallic contrast to the monochrome white gold surroundings. It’s a configuration that shifts dramatically depending on the light, moving from a bright electric blue to a nearly black navy. The integrated 18K white gold bracelet is the highlight here; the weave is tight and heavy, giving the watch a substantial weight of nearly 92 grams. This is not a flimsy dress watch—it has the physical presence and wrist-feel of a much larger piece despite its refined 31mm diameter.
Condition And Reality
The overall condition of this piece is excellent. The 18K white gold case and integrated bracelet have been well-preserved, maintaining their original texture and tension without the excessive stretch often found in 70s gold bracelets. There is a small amount of dust visible under the crystal, which we have noted but left as-is to preserve the watch’s current state. Mechanically, the automatic movement is running well after passing our test bench.
Why It Works
This watch works because it represents a specific, high-water mark of Audemars Piguet's history that is currently being rediscovered by serious collectors. It offers the same integrated-bracelet DNA as more famous sport models but in a format that is far more elegant and rare. It is for the person who wants the weight and prestige of an AP from the golden era without the ubiquitous octagonal bezel. It’s a heavy, white gold statement piece that remains tucked away and subtle until you catch the sunburst dial in the right light.
At Danny's Vintage Watches, we rigorously authenticate and inspect every watch to guarantee both its authenticity and exceptional quality. Your complete satisfaction is our utmost priority. We are dedicated to guiding you to the ideal timepiece that meets your desires. Should you have any inquiries, our team is ready to provide swift and comprehensive assistance.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
To get in contact directly with the team send us a text for the quickest response! 917-887-1584
If you are interested in trading or selling your watch please click here, and fill the form
Payments
We are committed to providing a secure and seamless payment experience. Our site features a built-in payment processor that accepts most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). U.S. residents also have the option to pay via Zelle. If you prefer to pay via bank wire, which will be slightly cheaper, please send a text to 917-887-1584 so we can reserve the item you wish to purchase.
Shipping
We ship via FedEx, USPS, UPS, and DHL, depending on the item's value and your location. All domestic shipments are fully insured.
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What Our Clients Say About Us
I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)
Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.
This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….
Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!