Introduction
Audemars Piguet is a Swiss luxury watch brand known for its high-quality and innovative timepieces. The company was founded in 1875 and has since become one of the most respected and recognizable names in the watch industry. With a commitment to craftsmanship and design, Audemars Piguet has created some of the world’s most iconic watches, coveted by collectors and enthusiasts around the globe.
Founder and Early History
Audemars Piguet was founded in 1875 by two young watchmakers, Jules-Louis Audemars and Edward-Auguste Piguet, in the small village of Le Brassus, Switzerland. Both men came from families of watchmakers and had a passion for creating precise and beautiful timepieces.
Jules-Louis Audemars was born in 1851 and was described as a skilled watchmaker and a man of integrity. Edward-Auguste Piguet, born in 1853, was known for his technical expertise and his eye for design. Together, they formed a partnership that would lay the foundation for one of the most respected watch brands in the world.
History
Audemars Piguet has a long and storied history, marked by both triumphs and challenges. During World War II, the company faced many obstacles as demand for luxury goods declined and resources became scarce. However, the brand persevered and continued to produce high-quality timepieces that were admired by watch aficionados around the world.
In the 1970s, Audemars Piguet made a bold move by creating the Royal Oak, a watch that defied convention with its octagonal shape and integrated bracelet. The watch was an instant success and helped to solidify the brand’s reputation as a leader in luxury watchmaking.
Today, Audemars Piguet continues to innovate and push the boundaries of watch design with its cutting-edge technology and exceptional craftsmanship. From the Royal Oak to the Millenary and beyond, the brand has created a legacy of excellence that has stood the test of time.
Watch Collections
Audemars Piguet offers a wide range of watch collections, each with its own unique style and features. Some of the most popular collections include:
Royal Oak: The iconic Royal Oak is perhaps the most famous of all Audemars Piguet watches. First introduced in 1972, it features an octagonal shape and a distinctive integrated bracelet.
Millenary: The Millenary collection features oval-shaped cases and complex, multi-layered dials. It is known for its innovative design and technical prowess.
Jules Audemars: This collection is named after the brand’s co-founder and features classic, elegant designs with traditional watchmaking techniques.
CODE 11.59: This collection was introduced in 2019 and features a contemporary design with a round case and sleek lines. It is named after the code used by watchmakers to denote the end of a workday.
Audemars Piguet also offers a variety of movements, including mechanical, automatic, and manual winding. The brand is known for its commitment to precision and accuracy, and its watches are highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Pricing
Audemars Piguet watches are considered some of the most exclusive and expensive timepieces in the world. Prices can vary widely depending on the model and features, but some of the most popular collections have starting prices as follows:
Royal Oak: $19,000 to $140,000+
Millenary: $20,000 to $300,000+
Jules Audemars: $10,000 to $90,000+
CODE 11.59: $27,000 to $350,000+
Popularity
Audemars Piguet is a brand that is highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts all over the world. While the brand has a global presence, there are certain models that are more popular in specific regions. For example, the Royal Oak is particularly popular in the United States, while the Millenary is more popular in Asia.
Production
Audemars Piguet produces its watches in Switzerland, at its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Le Brassus, Le Locle, and Meyrin. The brand takes great pride in its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, and every watch is made with the utmost care and attention to detail.
Location of Head Office
The Audemars Piguet head office is located in Le Brassus, Switzerland. This is where the brand was founded and where many of its watches are still produced today.
Factory Warranty Provided
Audemars Piguet offers a two-year warranty on all of its watches, which covers any manufacturing defects or issues with the watch’s functionality. This warranty is valid worldwide and can be serviced at any authorized Audemars Piguet service center.
Conclusion
Audemars Piguet is a brand that has stood the test of time, thanks to its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and design. From the Royal Oak to the Millenary and beyond, the brand has created some of the world’s most iconic and sought-after timepieces, coveted by collectors and enthusiasts around the globe.
While the brand’s watches are certainly not cheap, they are considered to be some of the most exclusive and high-quality timepieces in the world. Whether you’re a watch aficionado or simply appreciate fine craftsmanship, an Audemars Piguet watch is a true investment in luxury and style.