Audemars Piguet is a brand that harmonizes the weight of history with innovation, and its commitment to continuous evolution has earned it a place among the world's top three luxury watch brands.
They are the originators of the now-commonplace stainless steel watch, and in 1972, they launched the Royal Oak, their original and ultimate model. They are also the driving force behind the luxury sports watch boom, commonly known as "ragsports watch," which continues to sweep the world.
The beginning of this innovation dates back to 1875. The brand, founded by Jules-Louis Audemars and Edouard-Auguste Piguet, split into two independent brands, Audemars and Piguet, each taking their own name. Audemars focused on movement development, while Piguet dedicated himself to sales, spreading the brand's reputation worldwide. The development of the world's first minute repeater elevated it to the status of a prestigious fashion house.
In the world of luxury fashion houses, where acquisitions and mergers into larger corporations are the norm, Audemars Piguet is a rare and valuable brand globally that has remained family-run since its founding. Even without capital and despite the uncertain times, Audemars Piguet's nearly 150-year history has continued uninterrupted, demonstrating its undeniable strength and the brilliance of a top-tier fashion house.
Characteristics of Audemars Piguet
Audemars Piguet is one of the world's top three watch brands and is also known as a "haute horlogerie" (a watchmaker with a penchant for luxury and high-end timepieces). In 1972, at a time when thin, small watches made of gold and platinum were the norm, the 39mm stainless steel Royal Oak was born, pioneering the "big and thick" watch trend that is now dominated by Panerai and Hublot. It wasn't just its size that was impressive; its high functionality as a sports watch was also recognized, capturing the hearts of watch enthusiasts.
The Royal Oak was designed by Gerald Genta, a watch designer who has worked on numerous famous timepieces, and is inspired by the portholes of the British Royal Warship HMS Royal Oak. It features an octagonal bezel and case, a case back secured with hexagonal screws, and a dial adorned with a delicate guilloché tapestry grid.
Harmony of tradition and innovation
As a leading Swiss watchmaker, Audemars Piguet maintains its family-run business while respecting its history, and is renowned for its groundbreaking watchmaking, with "the harmony of tradition and innovation" as its brand concept. Each Audemars Piguet watch is handcrafted by skilled artisans, resulting in a small annual production volume, and the brand boasts a rich collection of 42 different movements.
High rarity
Audemars Piguet strictly adheres to a limited production schedule, resulting in a restricted number of watches available on the market. This makes them difficult to obtain, and they consistently maintain high demand.
Exceptional technical skills
They manufacture their watches entirely in-house (manufacture), earning a very high reputation for their complex mechanisms and exquisite finishes. Their watchmaking, which balances tradition and innovation, is truly captivating.
Iconic design
The Royal Oak, with its distinctive octagonal bezel, is just one example of the brand's unique and highly original designs. Its style, which blends luxury and sport, is popular worldwide.
Audemars Piguet boutique exclusive model
A key characteristic of Audemars Piguet is that some models are offered exclusively at boutiques. These are special models that are not sold at authorized retailers and can only be purchased at the brand's own boutiques.
Boutique-exclusive models are extremely rare due to their even more limited production numbers, and opportunities to see them on the market are infrequent. Therefore, they often command premium prices in the second-hand market and are highly sought after by collectors. Furthermore, they frequently feature special designs and specifications, giving them a unique appeal that sets them apart from standard models.
A popular model from Audemars Piguet
Undoubtedly, the Royal Oak, the world's first luxury sports watch made of stainless steel, is Audemars Piguet's flagship model. Its numerous series, including the Extra-Thin, Offshore, Jumbo, and Dual Time models, have also garnered attention.
In 1993, the sportier and more powerful "Royal Oak Offshore" was born. As its name "Offshore" suggests, it boasts a water resistance of 100 meters, and its large case and bold use of color have earned it the nickname "The Beast." The original Offshore was designed by Emmanuel Gueh, then a 22-year-old employee of Audemars Piguet, who would later also design for Cellini and Harry Winston.
However, when it was first unveiled at Baselworld, there was overwhelming criticism from within the company, with many believing that an oversized stainless steel chronograph wouldn't sell. It is said that Gerald Genta, who designed the original Royal Oak, was furious, feeling that his design had been ruined.
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The Royal Oak 15500ST is an extremely popular model that represents the modern Royal Oak. With its substantial 41mm case and sophisticated design, combined with an in-house movement boasting approximately 70 hours of power reserve, it offers both practicality and a sense of luxury.
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For those seeking a bolder, sportier style, the Royal Oak Offshore is a popular choice. Based on the Royal Oak design, it features a large 44mm case and chronograph functionality, exuding a powerful presence. Many models utilize ceramic or rubber materials, giving them a modern and active appeal. As a timepiece that embodies the fusion of luxury and sport, it is also popular among younger generations and those who value individuality.
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Introduced in 2019, the "CODE 11.59" collection represents a new challenge for Audemars Piguet. Characterized by a design that blends classic and modern elements, it employs a highly original structure, such as incorporating an octagonal middle case within a round case. The simple yet profound dial and meticulously finished case construction demonstrate the brand's high level of technical expertise. It's attracting attention as a timepiece for connoisseurs, possessing a different charm from the Royal Oak.
Audemars Piguet prices are soaring.
Among Audemars Piguet's offerings, the Royal Oak remains difficult to obtain, and it is increasingly being traded at premium prices exceeding its official retail price. Furthermore, the rise in the number of wealthy individuals and increased interest in it as an investment have also contributed to an upward trend in prices in the pre-owned market. It is expected to maintain its high asset value in the future, given the limited supply.
