Audemars Piguet, well known in the world of luxury watches, has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. The brand was founded by two men, Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet, back in 1881 in the small village of Le Brassus, Switzerland. Their original building was set up in 1868, where they began working on their first designs, and from there, the company grew to become one of the most respected names in watchmaking.
If we take a look at the price history of Audemars Piguet, we see that over time, their watches have not just maintained their value but often increase in price. This is partly due to their reputation for crafting watches with exceptional quality and complicated movements. For instance, in 1892, the brand introduced the first minute repeater wristwatch, a major milestone. By 1899, they unveiled the Grand Complication pocket watch, which featured numerous advanced functions like the minute repeater, perpetual calendar, chronograph, and even a split-seconds hand. These innovations helped set Audemars Piguet apart from other watchmakers.
In the years since, Audemars Piguet has continued to evolve and innovate. They produce fewer watches compared to other brands like Rolex, which makes their pieces more scarce and often more valuable. Watches from Audemars Piguet, especially those with complex features or limited editions, tend to see their prices rise over time.
When looking at the price of Audemars Piguet watches today, you can see a clear trend. Older models, especially rare ones, can fetch incredibly high prices at auctions. Even their newer releases, such as the Royal Oak, have seen prices increase significantly since their introduction. The Royal Oak, first launched in 1972, was initially considered controversial due to its bold design, but today, it’s one of the most iconic watches in the world and one of the most expensive.
In conclusion, Audemars Piguet is a brand that not only carries a prestigious history but also offers watches that are a smart investment. Whether you’re a collector or simply someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, Audemars Piguet watches tend to hold or increase in value, making them a prized possession for many.
Tags:[Audemars Piguet, watch history, luxury watches, Royal Oak, minute repeater, Swiss watches, watch investment, timepiece value, Le Brassus, watch collectors]