Owning an AP (Audemars Piguet) watch means more than just possessing a timepiece; it is holding a piece of art and craftsmanship steeped in history and classic elegance. Audemars Piguet watches stand as symbols of luxury and the unique identity of the high-end watchmaking industry, which has endured for decades. Pixiu Watch recognizes these values and is ready to bridge the gap between collectors and enthusiasts of pre-owned AP watches through transparent, reliable trading conducted by true experts.
Audemars Piguet: From Humble Beginnings to a Great Legend of the Horological World
The legend began in 1875 when 23-year-old Jules Louis Audemars and 21-year-old Edward Auguste Piguet, two young watchmakers with grand dreams, joined forces to establish a watch manufacturing factory in the Vallée de Joux, the heart of Switzerland's finest watchmaking region. Audemars was responsible for producing and quality-controlling complex components, while Piguet oversaw final assembly and precision.
During their first decade, the brand built its reputation by producing complicated watches. In 1882, they created a pocket watch with a "Grande Complication" function, which integrated a perpetual calendar, minute repeater, and chronograph into a single piece—a monumental achievement showcasing the brand's high-level expertise.
In 1892, they made history again by producing the world's first minute repeater wristwatch, followed by the patenting of many key innovations, such as the Zero-Reset Seconds mechanism in 1921 and the world's thinnest skeleton wristwatch in 1934.
The most significant turning point occurred in 1972, when the brand faced a crisis due to the advent of quartz watches. Georges Golay, the executive at the time, made a historic decision to hire the legendary designer Gérald Genta to create an unprecedented luxury sports watch. The result was the first Audemars Piguet Royal Oak (Reference 5402), featuring an octagonal steel case inspired by a diver’s helmet, priced 10 times higher than gold watches of that era. Despite heavy initial criticism, the AP Royal Oak became an overwhelming sales success and an icon that forever changed the face of the luxury watch industry.
Throughout more than 140 years, Audemars Piguet remains a family business run by the 4th generation of the founders' descendants. Producing no more than 40,000 watches per year to maintain the highest manufacturing standards, each piece remains unique and highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
Popular Audemars Piguet Models
-
Royal Oak: Considered the flagship model of Audemars Piguet and a symbol of the luxury watch revolution. With its unique octagonal dial designed by Gérald Genta in 1972, the Royal Oak is known not only for its durability but also for a timeless, modern design that remains popular among watch lovers.
-
Royal Oak Offshore: A model evolved from the Royal Oak, enhanced for greater robustness and water resistance, perfect for those who love adventure and desire a durable watch with a bold style.
-
Millenary: With a design that perfectly balances classic and modern aesthetics, the oval-shaped dial makes this model a head-turner. Coupled with a complex yet harmonious movement, it is the ideal watch for those who appreciate unique luxury.
-
Jules Audemars: Named after one of the co-founders, this model features a classic design crafted with finesse, offering a touch of elegance and history.
For Buying or Selling Audemars Piguet Watches, Come to Pixiu Watch
If you are looking for a place to buy or sell Audemars Piguet watches with the best price appraisal and a guarantee of authenticity, look no further than Pixiu Watch. We are leaders in watch trading, offering AP watch procurement, appraisal, and competitive pricing based on condition. We also provide comprehensive consultation for buying and selling pre-owned watches. You can be confident that every purchase or sale of your favorite timepiece will be handled with the utmost care as it is passed on to the next enthusiast. With in-depth knowledge you can trust, you can purchase AP watches at great prices, as well as other high-end brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, and many more, through our website. Alternatively, inquire about pricing through the following channels:
