Audemars Piguet (AP) is a high-end watchmaking brand founded in 1875 in the Vallée de Joux, Switzerland. Established by Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet, it has always been managed by the founding family and is committed to creating at least one grand complication timepiece every year, renowned for its pioneering design and complex craftsmanship.
Brand Roots: Craftsmanship and History
Core DNA: Specializing in complex functions and hand-finishing, it has never left its manufacturing center in the Vallée de Joux, adhering to the development philosophy of “complete timepieces.”
Milestones: Gained attention in 1889 with the exhibition of a grand complication pocket watch; launched its first minute repeater wristwatch in 1892; released its first perpetual calendar wristwatch with a leap year display in 1955; celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2025.
Two core series: each with a distinct style and its own unique charm
Table Series: Royal Oak (CODE 11.59)
Design Language: Designed by Gérald Genta in 1972, featuring an octagonal bezel, exposed hexagonal screws, a tapisserie dial, and a monocoque stainless steel bracelet. This revolutionary design elevated stainless steel to a top-tier, prestigious status. Audemars Piguet’s modern two-tone case structure (such as a black ceramic middle layer + precious metal bezel/lugs), and upgraded dial with ripple patterns and applied hour markers, emphasizes contemporary architectural aesthetics and ergonomics.
Classic Models: 15510ST (41mm stainless steel, classic “Jumbo” size); 26331ST (chronograph, large tapisserie dial); 26674SG (18K aventurine perpetual calendar, winner of the Grand Prix de Geneva)
6393NB (CODE 11.59 chronograph, Calibre 4401) Flyback movement); Universelle (combining 40 functions and 23 complications, a masterpiece of seven years of R&D)
Technical Highlights RD#2 (the world’s thinnest automatic perpetual calendar, movement 2.89mm); RD#3 (39mm stainless steel automatic floating tourbillon, paying tribute to the 50th anniversary) Audemars Piguet[12] Calibre 2980 automatic floating tourbillon movement; Calibre 4401 integrated column wheel + flyback function, balancing complexity and everyday ease of use
Must-Know for Enthusiasts
Royal Oak Offshore: launched in 1993, larger in size and more rugged in style, it is a sporty branch of the Royal Oak, full of presence.
Material Innovation: extensive use of stainless steel, 18K gold, ceramic, aventurine enamel and BMG block metal glass, combining craftsmanship and texture. Contemporary Positioning: A fusion of complex functions, avant-garde design, and modern aesthetics, representing the epitome of luxury and individual expression.
Key Highlights:
Founding Family: Independent lineage, 1875 to present
Iconic Design: Octagonal bezel + exposed screws + checkered dial (Royal Oak); two-tone case (CODE 11.59)
Technological Pinnacle: Grand complications, ultra-thin movement, floating tourbillon, perpetual calendar
