The finish on that octagonal bezel just mesmerizes me every time I see it. It's not just the mirror shine, but the incredibly subtle and barely perceptible curvature.
Regardless of the technical improvements that arrived with the 16202, I think in the long run, collectors will put a premium on the 15202 monobloc Royal Oaks and earlier models because as Tim said, the movement is better finished and it is truely an iconic movement that is not coming back.
I have since been curious as to how a 26240ST would compare to a 26331ST, would really appreciate you juxtaposing the two if you ever get the chance! You inform us so meticulously and such requests pop up, thanks Tim!
The easiest way to distinguish between the two at a glance is via the date windows. The new one has the right side of the frame in line with the edges of the tapisseries.
The new movement is historically irrelevant... the beauty of the 15202 was the homage to the original... 16202 is now just an ultra thin 39mm... over time I think collectors will shun the 16202
The 16202 date don’t does seem a tad bigger or perhaps more bold than the 15202. My imagination or …? Nice comparison Tim. Best wishes from Singapore Marc
