Audemars Piguet is a Swiss luxury watchmaker that has been in operation for over 145 years. The company was founded in 1875 by two young men, Jules-Louis Audemars and Edward-Auguste Piguet, in the town of Le Brassus in the Vallée de Joux, Switzerland. The company has since become one of the most prestigious and revered brands in the world of luxury watches. Audemars Piguet’s legacy is one of innovation, exceptional craftsmanship, and timeless design.
History and Founding of Audemars Piguet
Jules-Louis Audemars and Edward-Auguste Piguet were both born in the Vallée de Joux, where they grew up surrounded by the watchmaking industry. In 1875, at the age of 23, they decided to combine their skills and knowledge and start their own watchmaking business. The company was named Audemars Piguet & Cie, and it quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality timepieces with innovative designs.
The company’s success continued throughout the 20th century, and in 1925, Audemars Piguet produced the world’s first minute-repeater wristwatch, which featured a striking mechanism that chimed the time on demand. The company continued to innovate, introducing the first skeletonized wristwatch in 1934, and the first self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch in 1955.
Design and Innovation
Audemars Piguet is known for its exceptional design and innovation in the world of luxury watches. The company’s timepieces feature a unique combination of traditional watchmaking techniques and modern technology. Audemars Piguet watches are handmade by skilled craftsmen using only the finest materials, including precious metals, diamonds, and sapphires.
One of the most iconic designs in Audemars Piguet’s collection is the Royal Oak, according to The Watch Exchange London. The Royal Oak was introduced in 1972 and was the world’s first luxury sports watch. The watch features a bold octagonal bezel, visible screws, and an integrated bracelet. The design was inspired by a ship’s porthole, and it has since become one of the most recognizable watch designs in the world.
Audemars Piguet’s dedication to innovation is apparent through its incorporation of cutting-edge materials and technology. The company has introduced watches made from materials such as carbon fibre, forged carbon, and ceramic. Audemars Piguet also incorporates advanced technology in its timepieces, such as tourbillon movements and minute repeater mechanisms.
Craftsmanship and Quality
Audemars Piguet’s commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and quality is evident in every timepiece it produces. The company’s watches are made by hand by skilled craftsmen, and each watch is assembled and finished with meticulous attention to detail.
Audemars Piguet has its own in-house manufacturing facility where it produces many of the components used in its watches. The company also works with other top manufacturers to ensure that every component meets its exacting standards.
Audemars Piguet’s commitment to quality is reflected in its warranty policy. Every Audemars Piguet watch comes with a two-year warranty, and the company also offers an extended five-year warranty for select watches.
Legacy and Prestige
Audemars Piguet has a long-standing legacy of excellence in the world of luxury watches. The company’s commitment to exceptional design, innovation, and quality has earned it a reputation as one of the most prestigious brands in the industry.
Audemars Piguet’s watches have been worn by royalty, celebrities, and watch enthusiasts around the world. The company has also received numerous awards for its exceptional design and innovation, including the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève, which it has won multiple times.
Audemars Piguet’s commitment to social responsibility is also reflected in its partnerships with organizations such as the Only Watch charity auction, which supports research into Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and the Green Auction, which raises funds for environmental organizations.
Conclusion
Audemars Piguet is a legendary Swiss watchmaker that has established a legacy of excellence in the world of luxury watches. The company’s commitment to exceptional design, innovation, and quality is evident in every timepiece it produces. From the iconic Royal Oak to the advanced technology incorporated in its watches, Audemars Piguet continues to push the boundaries of watchmaking.