If you're new to the world of luxury watches, Audemars Piguet is a name you’ll want to know. Known for their bold and intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship, Audemars Piguet has become one of the most respected watchmakers in the industry.
In this crash course, we'll explain the history and more and see what makes AP watches unique. Whether you're a watch enthusiast or just curious, this guide will give you a clear understanding of why Audemars Piguet stands out.
Audemars Piguet’s History
Audemars Piguet was founded in Le Brassus in 1875, a small village near Geneva, known for its rich watchmaking history. The founders, Edward Auguste Piguet and Jules Louis Audemars, both came from watchmaking families and began learning the craft at a young age. Although they officially started the company in 1875, it wasn’t until 1881 that the name Audemars Piguet et Cie was registered.
From the beginning, Audemars Piguet made a mark in the watch world. In 1882, they created the world’s first-minute repeater wristwatch movement. Over the years, they continued to push boundaries, developing the first jumping hours wristwatch in 1921, the thinnest wristwatch in 1938, the thinnest automatic perpetual calendar in 1967, and the first ultra-thin automatic tourbillon in 1987. These groundbreaking innovations helped establish Audemars Piguet as a leader in high-end watchmaking.
However, the brand’s defining moment came in 1972 with the launch of the Royal Oak, designed by Gérald Genta. Released shortly after the rise of quartz watches, the Royal Oak was the most expensive steel sports watch at the time.
Instead of retreating, Audemars Piguet focused on creating high-end watches, and the Royal Oak became its signature model. Today, the brand is best known for the Royal Oak and its popular variation, the Offshore.
Audemars Piguet’s Design Detail
The best way to understand Audemars Piguet's design is by focusing on the Royal Oak, which has had a massive influence on the watch industry. The Royal Oak's design is known for its slim profile and durability. Even though it was created when dress watches were popular, it maintained an uncommon elegance for sports watches. Over time, collections like the Offshore and Concept expanded on this design, offering more modern sizes, but the classic Royal Oak has remained a slim watch.
The Royal Oak's standout feature is its octagonal bezel with broad, polished facets. The bezel is held in place by unique geometric screws that are polished on top, adding to its iconic look. The bracelet is also bold, tapering from the case down to the clasp in a way that feels both industrial and refined.
A key part of the Royal Oak's design is how functional elements, like screws and gaskets, are not hidden but used as design features. This concept of making utility part of the design has also influenced other collections, like the Offshore.
Another important part of Audemars Piguet's design is the experimental Concept series. This high-end collection pushes boundaries by testing new materials, techniques, and bold design choices, often receiving both praise and criticism.
Audemars Piguet’s Internal Working
Before the Royal Oak, Audemars Piguet was famous for its watch movements. Although it often used movements from other brands like Jaeger LeCoultre, Audemars Piguet modified, enhanced, and finished them in-house to meet its high standards.
One of their main goals was to develop ultra-thin movements. In addition to making their own watches, they also supplied movements and parts to other smaller watchmakers, becoming both a watchmaker and a trusted supplier.
The first Royal Oak models were powered by the caliber 2121 based on the earlier AP caliber 2120. Introduced in 1967, this movement was the thinnest automatic movement with a date feature at the time. The 2121 also included a shock absorption system, which helped make the Royal Oak more durable.
Today, Audemars Piguet continues to produce some of the most beautifully crafted movements in the watch industry. Like the 3120 used in the current Royal Oak Jumbo, their modern calibers feature stunning details. The gold rotor, for instance, sits atop beautifully decorated bridges, showcasing the brand’s dedication to fine finishing and traditional Swiss craftsmanship.
Audemars Piguet’s Personality
Audemars Piguet collectors are a diverse group with varying tastes. Traditional watch enthusiasts often seek out vintage and neo-vintage AP models that feature classic complications like perpetual calendars and minute repeaters. These early models are highly sought after, and these collectors are more likely to choose a Code 11.59 over a Royal Oak when exploring modern options.
On the other hand, Audemars Piguet’s hype side has made the steel sports watch a stylish choice. With the rise of the integrated bracelet trend, the Royal Oak has become a favorite for social media influencers and wristwatch enthusiasts. But beyond the hype, the Royal Oak remains a stunning piece of design, blending Audemars Piguet’s history of fine watchmaking with a fresh, bold aesthetic created by designer Gerald Genta.
If you love the Royal Oak but prefer a more understated look, consider exploring vintage models with smaller case sizes for a more classic appeal.
Conclusion
Audemars Piguet is widely respected in the luxury watch world. While some traditional collectors have mixed feelings about the brand’s focus on the Royal Oak, there’s no denying AP's impact on the modern watch industry. Audemars Piguet earns a spot in any serious watch collection with its rich heritage and technical mastery.
If you want to add an Audemars Piguet timepiece to your collection, On Demand Luxe in Miami, FL, is here to help. Our team can assist you in finding the perfect model that suits your taste and style.
Contact us today to learn more and find your ideal Audemars Piguet watch.
