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Audemars Piguet Mini Cobra - Onyx Dial

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This is the Cobra reduced to its essentials

The Mini Cobra takes everything that made the original Cobra interesting and compresses it into a smaller, sharper package. Fluid lines, integrated bracelet, and a case that feels more sculpted than assembled. It is compact, but it never feels dainty. The proportions are deliberate, and the white gold gives it real weight for its size.

This is a jewelry watch, but it is still unmistakably AP.

Why this configuration matters

The onyx dial is the anchor. Flat, deep black, and unforgiving, it gives the watch a sense of seriousness that lighter dials never manage. Onyx was never an easy choice, and many did not survive intact. This one remains in good shape, which is the first thing that matters.

The integrated 18k white gold bracelet is just as important. Cobra bracelets are all about flow. If they stretch or lose definition, the entire watch suffers. This example remains in very good condition and wears as intended. The manual movement keeps the profile slim and preserves the clean lines that define the design.

This is not a common configuration, especially in white gold at this scale.

What you need to know before wearing it

Condition is very good overall. The onyx dial is intact and presents cleanly. The bracelet is in very good shape and fits approximately a 6 to 6.25 inch wrist. The watch is running properly.

Why this watch still works

This is a Cobra for someone who understands AP beyond the obvious references. Small, sculptural, and confident without needing size or complication to make its point.

It works as a refined jewelry watch, a conversation piece, or a subtle addition to a serious collection. Distinct, well preserved, and increasingly hard to find in this condition.

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

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

Key Specs

Model: Mini Cobra

Year: 1980s

Movement: Manual wind

Case Size: 22 × 24mm

Bezel: 18k white gold (integrated)

Bracelet: Integrated 18k white gold

Dial: Onyx

Wrist Size: Fits 6–6.25 inches

SKU: 327

History

A year before the Royal Oak, Audemars Piguet quietly introduced another integrated‑bracelet design.  In 1971 the reference 5403, nicknamed the “Cobra”, debuted as an ultra‑thin automatic watch with a distinctive Polonaise mesh bracelet .  Designed by Gérald Genta, the Cobra’s case flowed seamlessly into its woven bracelet, whose v‑shaped links resembled snake scales .  The watch earned its moniker from this sinuous form and from the way the bracelet hugged the wrist.  Powered by the same calibre 2121 used in the Royal Oak, the Cobra combined a thin, roughly 34‑mm gold case with a variety of stone or lacquered dials .

The Cobra embodied Audemars Piguet’s response to the changing tastes of the early 1970s.  Rather than embracing steel, the brand crafted the watch exclusively in 18‑carat yellow or white gold and focused on artisanal bracelet making.  Roland‑Gilbert Gaschen’s workshop wove the Polonaise bracelets by hand, and the integration between case and bracelet created a seamless silhouette .  A day‑and‑date version, reference 5587, arrived in 1984 with the calibre 2124/2810 .  Both models were produced in small numbers and never became mainstream, especially once the Royal Oak captured public attention .

Today the Cobra is recognised as one of Genta’s most daring pre‑Royal Oak designs.  Collectors appreciate its unusual bracelet architecture, ultra‑thin movement and variety of dials.  Its rarity—stemming from limited production and the technical complexity of the bracelet—contributes to its mystique.  As a relic of Audemars Piguet’s experimental phase during the quartz crisis, the Cobra shows how the brand explored opulent forms even as it prepared the more utilitarian Royal Oak.

Audemars Piguet Mini Cobra - Onyx Dial
Audemars Piguet Mini Cobra - Onyx Dial Sale price$13,500.00 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!!!