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Audemars Piguet Bamboo - Two Tone Grey Dial

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This is AP at its most sculptural

The Bamboo is one of Audemars Piguet’s most recognizable jewelry designs from the 1980s. AP saw contrast between the  historical construction style and the highly refined use of precious metal in this piece to create something completely fresh.  The bracelet mimics articulated bamboo segments, giving the watch a sense of movement and texture that no standard link design can replicate. AP saw contrast between a somewhat rudamentary and historical construction style and the highly refined use of precious metal in this piece and birthed this. 

In this configuration, the effect is more restrained. The two-tone execution blends white gold with subtle yellow gold accents, softening the visual impact while preserving the character of the design. It’s expressive, but not overworked.

Why this configuration matters

Unlike the more jewelry-forward pavé examples, this Bamboo features a brushed grey dial with applied indices that have developed light, natural patina. It shifts the watch away from high-gloss presentation and into something more wearable and balanced. The design still reads as intentional and sculptural, but less overtly decorative.

The integrated two-tone bracelet is essential. Bamboo references are entirely dependent on bracelet condition, and this example remains tight and well preserved. The bracelet has been extended on one side, but overall structure and integrity are strong, something increasingly difficult to find today. Another standout feature of this pieces is it's inclusion of both box and papers. 

What you need to know before wearing it

Condition is very good overall. The case and bracelet show light wear consistent with age. The dial indices shows aforementioned patina on the indicies. The quartz movement is running properly with a fresh battery. It comes with its original box and papers, which is uncommon for Bamboo references.

Why this watch still holds up

The Bamboo was never meant to be subtle, but this execution shows how well the design ages when done with restraint. It represents a period when Audemars Piguet explored form, texture, and material without forcing the watch into pure jewelry territory.

This is for someone who appreciates 1980s AP design at its most sculptural, but wearable. Distinct, well preserved, and increasingly hard to find complete with box and papers. A true design piece that still wears confidently today.

Every watch we offer has been authenticated and mechanically checked to ensure immediate usability.

Bracelet sizing, extension, or reduction is available upon request through our professional in-house jewelers.

Key Specs

Reference: 5620CA

Model: Bamboo

Year: 1980s

Movement: Quartz

Case Size: 23x25mm

Bezel: 18k two-tone gold

Bracelet: Integrated 18k two-tone gold

Dial: Grey brushed

Wrist Size: Fits 6.5–7 inches

History

During the early 1980s Audemars Piguet introduced a series of dress watches whose bracelet links resembled the stalks of bamboo.  The so‑called Bamboo line, produced exclusively in 18‑carat gold, paired extra‑thin cases with cylindrical bracelet links, polished repeatedly to achieve a pearl‑like sheen .  Each link was shaped and assembled to evoke the flexibility and grace of bamboo, and the case seamlessly integrated into the bracelet .  The range was offered in three sizes—approximately 27 mm, 22 mm and 20 mm—and fitted with automatic, manual‑wind or quartz movements .  Production codes indicate that the models were made from the late 1970s through the 1990s .

The Bamboo watches appeared at a time when Swiss houses were experimenting with design to counter the quartz crisis.  Audemars Piguet’s designers drew inspiration from the natural lightness of bamboo; intertwined golden canes formed a supple bracelet whose rhythm was echoed by the octagonal case .  Some versions were elaborately gem‑set, while others used plain metal to highlight the sculptural links.  A 1986 company brochure described the watch as combining elegance and water‑resistance despite its thinness and emphasised the artisanal polishing required .

These watches, though never produced in large numbers, illustrate Audemars Piguet’s willingness to blur the line between jewellery and watchmaking.  The Bamboo’s artistry appealed to clients who sought distinctive precious‑metal dress watches rather than steel sports models.  Collectors today value the line for its craftsmanship, variety of movements and the way it captures the exuberant design language of the 1980s .  The Bamboo remains a testament to the brand’s flexibility in responding to changing tastes while maintaining its focus on quality.

Audemars Piguet Bamboo - Two Tone Grey Dial
Audemars Piguet Bamboo - Two Tone Grey Dial Sale price$52,500.00 USD

What Our Clients Say About Us

Dan Young
4 months ago

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)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

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.

Zee06
2 months ago

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….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

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!!!