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Audemars Piguet History and Brand Overview

Audemars Piguet, often abbreviated as AP, stands as one of the 'holy trinity' of Swiss watchmaking, alongside Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin. Founded in 1875 by Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet in Le Brassus, Switzerland, the brand has remained family-owned throughout its history, a rarity in the luxury watch industry. This independence has allowed AP to maintain its commitment to innovation and craftsmanship without succumbing to external pressures.

From its earliest days, Audemars Piguet has been known for pushing the boundaries of watchmaking. They were pioneers in developing complicated watches, including grand complications that combine multiple functions like chronographs, perpetual calendars, and minute repeaters. AP’s dedication to innovation extends beyond complications to design, materials, and manufacturing techniques.

Iconic Audemars Piguet Watch Models

Audemars Piguet is best known for the Royal Oak, a revolutionary sports watch designed by Gérald Genta and introduced in 1972. The Royal Oak broke the mold by being the first luxury sports watch crafted from stainless steel and featuring an integrated bracelet. Its distinctive octagonal bezel, secured by eight hexagonal screws, and its 'tapisserie' dial pattern, have made it an instantly recognizable icon.

Other notable AP models include:

• Royal Oak Offshore: A larger, bolder version of the Royal Oak, introduced in 1993. It's known for its robust construction and use of unconventional materials.
• Royal Oak Concept: A futuristic and highly innovative collection showcasing AP's technical prowess. These watches often feature tourbillons, chronographs, and other advanced complications.
• Code 11.59: A more recent collection introduced in 2019, featuring a round case and a focus on elegant design and refined complications.
• Jules Audemars: A classic collection of dress watches paying homage to the brand's founder. These watches often feature elegant designs and traditional complications.

Audemars Piguet Watch Complications Explained

Audemars Piguet has a long history of creating watches with a wide range of complications. Some of the most notable include:

• Chronograph: A stopwatch function that allows you to measure elapsed time. AP chronographs are known for their precision and reliability.
• Perpetual Calendar: A calendar that automatically adjusts for the varying lengths of months, including leap years.
• Minute Repeater: A complication that chimes the time on demand, using a series of hammers and gongs. Minute repeaters are among the most complex and prestigious of all watch complications.
• Tourbillon: A rotating cage that houses the balance wheel and escapement, designed to counteract the effects of gravity on the accuracy of the watch.
• Moon Phase: A display that shows the current phase of the moon.

Audemars Piguet Watch Materials and Craftsmanship

Audemars Piguet uses a wide range of materials in its watches, including stainless steel, titanium, gold, platinum, ceramic, and carbon fiber. The brand is known for its meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. AP watchmakers hand-finish many of the components in their watches, using techniques like polishing, beveling, and engraving.

The 'tapisserie' dial, a signature feature of the Royal Oak, is created using a pantograph machine, which engraves a repeating pattern onto the dial. This intricate process requires skilled operators and precise machinery.

Audemars Piguet Watch: Recommended Models and Use Cases

Here are a few specific Audemars Piguet models with detailed information:

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500ST (Stainless Steel)

Description: The quintessential Royal Oak. Stainless steel case and bracelet, blue 'tapisserie' dial, automatic movement. A versatile watch suitable for everyday wear and special occasions.

Use Case: A stylish and sophisticated watch that can be dressed up or down. Ideal for business meetings, casual outings, or evening events.

Comparison: Compared to the older 15400, the 15500 features a slightly wider case and a new movement with a longer power reserve. It's considered a more refined and modern version of the classic Royal Oak.

Price: Approximately $35,000 USD (retail, but often sells for significantly more on the secondary market)

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 26470ST (Stainless Steel)

Description: A bolder and more sporty version of the Royal Oak. Stainless steel case, chronograph function, rubber strap. A robust and eye-catching watch.

Use Case: Ideal for active individuals and those who prefer a more casual and rugged look. Suitable for weekend adventures, sports activities, or everyday wear.

Comparison: Compared to the standard Royal Oak, the Offshore is larger and thicker, with a more aggressive design. It features a chronograph function and is often paired with a rubber strap.

Price: Approximately $30,000 USD (retail, but availability varies)

Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar

Description: A dressier option from AP, featuring a round case and a perpetual calendar complication. Elegant design, sophisticated movement, and luxurious materials.

Use Case: Perfect for formal occasions and those who appreciate fine watchmaking. The perpetual calendar complication adds a touch of horological prestige.

Comparison: The Code 11.59 is a departure from the Royal Oak's iconic design. It's a more traditional and elegant dress watch with a focus on refined complications.

Price: Approximately $80,000 USD (retail)

Audemars Piguet Watch: Buying Considerations and Investment Potential

Audemars Piguet watches are a significant investment. Factors to consider when purchasing an AP watch include:

• Budget: AP watches range in price from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
• Style: Choose a watch that matches your personal style and the occasions you'll be wearing it.
• Complications: Consider which complications are important to you.
• Condition: If buying a pre-owned watch, carefully inspect its condition.
• Authenticity: Purchase from a reputable dealer to ensure authenticity.

Certain Audemars Piguet models, particularly the Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore, have strong resale value and can be considered an investment. However, watch values can fluctuate, so it's important to do your research before making a purchase.

Audemars Piguet Watch: Care and Maintenance Tips

To keep your Audemars Piguet watch in top condition, follow these care and maintenance tips:

• Clean your watch regularly with a soft cloth.
• Avoid exposing your watch to extreme temperatures or magnetic fields.
• Have your watch serviced by an authorized AP service center every few years.
• Store your watch in a safe place when not in use.

Audemars Piguet vs. Other Luxury Watch Brands

Audemars Piguet competes with other top-tier luxury watch brands like Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, Rolex, and Richard Mille. Each brand has its own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Audemars Piguet vs. Patek Philippe: Both brands are considered part of the 'holy trinity' of Swiss watchmaking. Patek Philippe is known for its classic designs and traditional complications, while Audemars Piguet is known for its bold designs and innovative complications.

Audemars Piguet vs. Rolex: Rolex is a more widely recognized brand with a broader range of models. Audemars Piguet is more exclusive and focused on high-end complications.

Audemars Piguet vs. Richard Mille: Richard Mille is a relatively new brand known for its avant-garde designs and use of unconventional materials. Audemars Piguet has a longer history and a more established reputation.