Answer: The reference 16402 does not appear in Audemars Piguet's official Royal Oak catalog. Replica sellers use it as a label for a counterfeit Royal Oak that often copies the 15400 or 15202. Before you buy, identify the actual reference being copied and inspect the case, dial, movement, and paperwork against that genuine model.

Prerequisites

  • Reference photos of the genuine Royal Oak 15400 or 15202 from Audemars Piguet or an authorized dealer.
  • A 10x loupe or macro lens.
  • Digital calipers.
  • The seller's photos of the caseback, dial, bracelet, and movement.

Step-by-step evaluation

  1. Ask for a straight-on photo of the caseback engraving. The engraving shows the reference number the replica claims to copy. A blurred or missing engraving is a red flag.
  2. Compare that reference number to the official Audemars Piguet catalog. If the number is 16402, the listing is not tied to a real AP model. Use the closest genuine reference, 15400 or 15202, for the remaining checks.
  3. Measure the case diameter with calipers. The 15400 is 41 mm and the 15202 is 39 mm. A case labeled 16402 that measures 42 mm or more does not match either reference.
  4. Check the bezel screws. Genuine Royal Oak screws sit flush and align in a continuous slot line. Replica screws often sit proud, misalign, or use fake slots cut into the screw head.
  5. Inspect the dial grid with a loupe. The genuine Grande Tapisserie pattern is raised and sharp. Replica dials show shallow stamping, soft edges, or a printed pattern.
  6. Verify the bracelet taper and link finish. Genuine Royal Oak bracelets taper from the case to the clasp and have alternating brushed and polished links. Replicas often use uniform brushing, sharp edges, or loose spring bars.
  7. Request a photo of the movement. A genuine 15400 uses AP calibre 3120; the 15202 uses calibre 2121. Most replicas in this class use a Chinese clone or a decorated Miyota. No replica movement matches either calibre.
  8. Ask for a timestamped video of the watch running. The seller should show the watch next to a handwritten date card. This confirms the watch exists and is not a stock photo.
  9. Confirm the legal risk in your jurisdiction. In the US, buying or selling counterfeit goods violates trademark law. Customs can seize the watch.

Common red flags

  • Seller uses 16402 but cannot name the genuine reference.
  • Photos show no caseback engraving or a blurred serial.
  • Price is far below other replicas of the same tier.
  • Seller refuses video or timestamped photos.

Use the steps above to separate a replica that copies a real Royal Oak reference from one that hides behind a made-up number. The reference check is the fastest filter.