The Fascinating History of Audemars Piguet: From Humble Beginnings to Global Luxury Watches – The Origin Story of Audemars Pigeut
Audemars Piguet is a world-renowned Swiss luxury watchmaker that has been at the forefront of watchmaking innovation for over a century. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the fascinating history of Audemars Piguet. From its humble beginnings to its status as a global luxury watch brand.
Founding Fathers: Early Innovations by Audemars Piguet
Audemars Piguet was started by two young men, Jules-Louis Audemars and Edward-Auguste Piguet, who shared a passion for watchmaking. They were both born into families with a long tradition of watchmaking. Then joined forces to create a company that would produce high-quality mechanical watches.
Their focus on producing complicated watch movements, such as perpetual calendars and minute repeaters, set them apart in the industry. One such watch was the groundbreaking Grande Complication, launched in 1891, which featured a minute repeater, perpetual calendar, and chronograph. As a result, the watch was a huge success and established Audemars Piguet as one of the top watchmakers in the world.
Iconic Breakthroughs: The Royal Oak & the Royal Oak Offshore
Audemars Piguet continued to innovate, and in 1972, they launched their most iconic watch, the Royal Oak, which was designed by legendary watchmaker Gérald Genta. The watch was a radical departure from traditional luxury watches with its sporty design, octagonal bezel, and exposed screws. As a matter of fact, the Royal Oak became one of the most celebrated models in the history of watchmaking.
In 1992, Audemars Piguet expanded the collection, introducing the Royal Oak Offshore. The Offshore boasted an oversized case and sporty design, which proved to be a bold and daring move for the company. Nonetheless, the watch was a hit with watch collectors and enthusiasts, cementing Audemars Piguet’s reputation as a cutting-edge watchmaker.
Continued Innovation: Audemars Piguet Today
Today, Audemars Piguet is still owned by the founding families and has continued to produce exquisite watches. The company is committed to producing the finest mechanical watches in the world and continues to innovate, designing and producing watches with unique complications and stunning designs.
Audemars Piguet watches are highly sought-after by watch collectors and enthusiasts. Therefore, they are widely regarded as some of the most beautiful and well-crafted watches in the world. The company’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship is apparent in every watch it produces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Audemars Piguet has a rich history and a long tradition of excellence in watchmaking. The company’s commitment to producing high-quality mechanical watches and their groundbreaking innovations, including the Royal Oak and the Royal Oak Offshore, have made them a global luxury watch brand. Furthermore, Audemars Piguet will continue to innovate and produce exquisite watches that have respect and admiration by watch enthusiasts around the world.
If you own a prestigious watch like an Audemars Piguet, and you require a repair. Then contact us today for a free estimate on all Audemars Piguet watch repairs. We have a same day watch repair branch at The Shard Retail Arcade.