Audemars Piguet Watches

Swiss

The story of celebrated family-owned manufacturer Audemars Piguet and its universally acclaimed, widely coveted luxury watches begins deep in the Jura Mountains in western Switzerland.

The Vallée de Joux has been a haven of watchmaking since the late 18th century, when the residents of farming communities began creating timepieces during the winter months.

Jules Louis Audemars (1851–1918) and Edward Auguste Piguet (1853–1919), both natives of the region, were already deeply entrenched in the world of watchmaking when they joined forces to form a new house of horology near the end of the 19th century, an alliance that would be the start of a multigenerational family company. With complementary specialties within the field, Audemars and Piguet made the perfect pair in 1875: Audemars, the more technically minded of the two, oversaw production, while Piguet specialized in quality control and led the business and marketing parts of the outfit.

Audemars Piguet’s first major milestone came in 1892, when it created the world’s first minute-repeating movement for a wristwatch. (It was sold to Omega, whose origins date to 1848.) That was soon followed in 1899 with the Universelle pocket watch, a masterpiece of horology that boasted a perpetual calendar, minute repeater, alarm and chronograph with jumping seconds. It is still said to be the most complicated timepiece that Audemars Piguet has ever designed.

Between 1918 and 1919, both founders of Audemars Piguet had died and were replaced by their respective sons, incidentally both named Paul. Under the leadership of Paul Louis Audemars and Paul Edward Piguet, the watchmaker continued to innovate. It retained an ever-evolving technical focus and found new praise for its efforts, producing the world’s thinnest pocket-watch caliber in 1925, the first skeletonized pocket watch in 1934 and the world’s thinnest wristwatch in 1946.

When the quartz crisis of the 1970s left many watchmakers in the lurch, Audemars and Piguet found a creative solution, tapping the Geneva-born Gérald Genta to conceive the first-ever luxury watch in stainless steel. Launched at what would become the Baselworld watch and jewelry fair in 1972, the Royal Oak, with its octagonal face and integrated bracelet, would come to define the look of Audemars Piguet and revolutionize the luxury wristwatch industry, setting a standard that continues to this day.

Find a collection of vintage Audemars Piguet wristwatches and pocket watches on 1stDibs.

Audemars Piguet watches for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a range of Audemars Piguet watches available on 1stDibs. Each of these unique items was designed with extraordinary care, often using gold. While looking for the most stylish antique or vintage Audemars Piguet jewelry to pair with your ensemble, you’ll find that Audemars Piguet diamond watches, from our inventory of 58, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look. We have 258 pieces in this collection as well as a number of other designs by this jeweler. While this collection reflects work that originated over various time periods, most of these items were designed during the 21st century and contemporary. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider watches by TAG Heuer, IWC, and Jaeger-LeCoultre. Prices for Audemars Piguet watches can differ depending upon gemstone, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $3,394 and tops out at $769,000, while pieces like these, on average, can sell for $47,533.

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Questions About Audemars Piguet Watches

Is an AP worth more than a Rolex?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2024
There is no hard-and-fast rule for whether an AP is worth more than a Rolex. The value of watches depends on a variety of factors, including their style, materials, condition and rarity. While Rolex generally has a lower entry-level price than Audemars Piguet, some limited edition and older models may be worth more than particular timepieces made by Audemars Piguet. Launched at what would become the Baselworld watch and jewelry fair in 1972, the Royal Oak, with its octagonal face and integrated bracelet, would come to define the look of Audemars Piguet and revolutionize the luxury wristwatch industry, setting a standard that continues to this day. Rolex's two most iconic models are sports watches. Although the Submariner, which debuted in 1953, was developed as a dive watch, its waterproof case, solid construction and good looks made it a favorite of adventurers and urbanites alike, including the fictional character James Bond, who wore it in film classics like Dr. No and Goldfinger. The Daytona, the racing chronograph made famous by Paul Newman, is especially sought after by collectors. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of Audemars Piguet and Rolex watches.
What does AP mean for watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
For watches, AP usually means that a watch was produced by the Swiss luxury watchmaker Audemars Piguet. Jules Louis Audemars (1851–1918) and Edward Auguste Piguet (1853–1919), both natives of the Vallée de Joux region in Switzerland, were already deeply entrenched in the world of watchmaking when they joined forces to form a new house of horology near the end of the 19th century. Their company's first major milestone came in 1892, when it created the world’s first minute-repeating movement for a wristwatch. That was soon followed in 1899 with the Universelle pocket watch, a masterpiece of horology that boasted a perpetual calendar, minute repeater, alarm and chronograph with jumping seconds. Nearly a century later, the quartz crisis of the 1970s left many watchmakers in the lurch. Audemars and Piguet found a creative solution, tapping the Geneva-born Gérald Genta to conceive the first-ever luxury watch in stainless steel. Launched in 1972, the Royal Oak, with its octagonal face and integrated bracelet, would come to define the look of Audemars Piguet and revolutionize the luxury wristwatch industry, setting a standard that continues to this day. Explore a selection of Audemars Piguet watches on 1stDibs.
Is Audemars Piguet a luxury brand?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, Audemars Piguet is a luxury brand. The term refers to brands that produce non-essential items with fine materials and sell them at aspirational prices. With their range of Swiss-made watches and clocks, Audemars Piguet fits the definition. Find a variety of Audemars Piguet watches on 1stDibs.
Is Audemars Piguet French?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2023
No, Audemars Piguet is not French. Although the watchmaker's name comes from the French last names of founders Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet, the company is actually Swiss. Audemars and Piguet started the company in 1875 in Le Brassus, Switzerland. Shop a wide range of Audemars Piguet on 1stDibs.
Who owns Audemars Piguet?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Descendants of founders Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet own Audemars Piguet as of January 2020. The partners started the Swiss watchmaker in 1875. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Audemars Piguet watches from some of the world’s top sellers.
How do I identify my Audemars Piguet watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
To identify your Audemars Piguet watch, first look for its case number. You'll find it on the back or inside of the case or in both places. For watches produced between 1951 and 1976, the number will begin with 10. More recent timepieces have case numbers that begin with a letter. Once you have the case number, you can consult trusted online resources to obtain the model number for your watch, and with that information, you can identify its name. Explore a selection of Audemars Piguet watches on 1stDibs.
Are there fake Audemars Piguet watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023
Yes, there are fake Audemars Piguet watches. While not as common as replicas of Rolex, Patek Philippe and Omega watches, convincing reproductions of Audemars Piguet timepieces exist. You can help assure your purchase is authentic by acquiring your timepiece from an authorized dealer or a trusted online platform. Shop a selection of Audemars Piguet watches on 1stDibs.
Does Audemars Piguet use gold?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 4, 2023
Yes, Audemars Piguet uses gold. The Swiss luxury watchmaker produces timepieces out of 18-karat white gold, yellow gold and rose gold. In addition to classic polished cases, Audemars Piguet offers a unique gold finish. Called frosted gold, it has a sparkling look reminiscent of diamonds. Artisans produce the effect by micro-hammering the gold. Find a variety of Audemars Piguet watches on 1stDibs.
Is it hard to buy Audemars Piguet?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023
Whether it's hard to buy Audemars Piguet watches depends largely on the model you wish to purchase. Stock levels at retailers vary based on how many timepieces the luxury watchmaker produces and current demand. As a result, some models may be easier to find than others at retailers. However, you can also find Audemars Piguet watches on trusted online platforms. Explore a variety of vintage Audemars Piguet watches on 1stDibs.
What is the dial on Audemars Piguet called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
The dial on the Audemars Piguet is simply called a dial. However, many Audemars Piguet timepieces feature an iconic textural effect known as Tapisserie. Watches with Tapisserie patterning on their dials show off raised squares arranged in a grid. Applying the patterning is a complex process that involves engraving, lathing and pantography, a method of reproducing drawings mechanically by increasing and decreasing their size. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Audemars Piguet watches.
How much is an Audemars Piguet watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
How much an Audemars Piguet watch is depends on a variety of factors. Among them are its age, materials, model and availability. Entry-level stainless steel chronograph watches made by the Swiss watchmaker often start between $45,000 and $55,000, and the highest-end AP offerings sell for upwards of $200,000. You may find pre-owned Audemars Piguet watches at reduced prices on trusted online platforms. Find a collection of Audemars Piguet watches on 1stDibs.
Who wears Audemars Piguet watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
Many notable people wear Audemars Piguet watches. The long list includes many athletes, such as Lebron James, Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, Michael Jordan, Neymar Júnior, Serena Williams, Roger Federer and Cristiano Ronaldo. Some other celebrities who sport AP watches are Usher, John Mayer, Mark Wahlberg, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Kylie Jenner, Janelle Monae and Jay-Z. Explore a collection of Audemars Piguet watches on 1stDibs.
How can I tell if my Audemars Piguet watch is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
To tell if an Audemars Piguet watch is real, examine its details closely. The dial is often a giveaway. On authentic timepieces, the tapisserie pattern consists of individual raised squares, while replicas often have the pattern drawn on or shallowly stamped onto the dial. A genuine Audemars Piguet timepiece will have an even polished finish all over. Any dull or rough spots on the case usually indicate a fake. If you're uncertain about the authenticity of a specific timepiece, consult a licensed appraiser or knowledgeable dealer. Explore a wide variety of Audemars Piguet watches on 1stDibs.
How do I find my Audemars Piguet serial number?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023
How you find your Audemars Piguet serial number depends on which model you have. The Swiss luxury watchmaker engraves the serial number in one of two places. On some watches, it appears along the side of the watch case near the 6 o'clock position. Others display the serial number on their casebacks. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Audemars Piguet watches.
How many Audemars Piguet Black Panthers are there?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023
There are only 250 Audemars Piguet Black Panthers in existence. Part of a collaboration with Marvel, the timepiece is a variation on the brand's popular Royal Oak model that features a unique pulsating tourbillon. The accessory has a sandblasted titanium case inspired by the iconic character's suit, a satin-brushed and polished black ceramic bezel, a sculpted figure on the dial and a purple rubber strap. Shop a wide variety of Audemars Piguet watches on 1stDibs.
Is Audemars Piguet a good watch brand?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
Yes, Audemars Piguet is a good watch brand. In fact, the Swiss luxury watchmaker's timepieces are almost universally acclaimed and widely coveted. Audemars Piguet emphasizes quality over quantity, producing a limited number of timepieces in accordance with strict quality standards, with movements designed and made in-house. The artisans at Audemars Piguet can spend a year crafting each watch that bears the brand name. Explore a wide variety of Audemars Piguet watches on 1stDibs.
Are Audemars Piguet watches made of gold?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
Yes, some Audemars Piguet watches are made of gold. The Swiss luxury watchmaker produces timepieces out of yellow, rose and white gold, as well as other materials like ceramic, platinum and titanium. One of Audemars Piguet's most acclaimed finishes is frosted gold. To create it, artisans employ an ancient Florentine hammering technique that gives the precious metal a sparkling diamond-like appearance. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Audemars Piguet gold watches.
How many grams of gold is an Audemars Piguet watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
How many grams of gold an Audemars Piguet watch is varies from timepiece to timepiece. The gram weight of gold in any timepiece depends on its size and the amount of gold it features. Over the years, Audemars Piguet has produced watches out of both solid gold and gold plating in a variety of sizes. Solid gold watches will contain more grams of gold than plated ones of similar sizes, and the larger the watch is, the more it will weigh. On 1stDibs, find a large collection of Audemars Piguet watches.
Who wears the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
Many celebrities wear Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore watches. Musician and entrepreneur Jay-Z is especially well known for sporting the Royal Oak and other Audemars Piguet pieces, and he has even made references to his admiration for the brand in his songs. Arnold Schwarzenegger also has a famed collection of Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore timepieces. The watch was also heavily featured in the HBO television series Entourage. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore watches.
What type of watch is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
It can be difficult to state exactly what type of watch the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is due to the very nature of its design. Before its release, most watches for men were either dress watches or sports watches. Its creator, Gérald Genta, intended for the Royal Oak to be a bridge between the two. It has sporty features like an octagonal case and specially designed bezel screws, but also has dressier details. Some people refer to it as a sports dress watch due to this unique blend of elements. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watches.
How can you tell if an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is fake?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
To tell if an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is fake, first examine the details of the case. A genuine timepiece will have even beveling and fluid edges. Irregular beveling or rough spots usually indicate a replica. Next, examine the dial with a magnifying glass. You should notice two distinct textures in the iconic "Tapisserie" pattern. Fake timepieces will often have raised squares that are smooth rather than textured. When in doubt, consult a licensed appraiser or experienced dealer for assistance with authentication. Shop a large selection of Audemars Piguet watches from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.
How can you tell a fake Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore apart from a real one?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
To tell a fake Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore apart from a real one, first closely examine the dial. The tapisserie pattern on the dial should feature raised squares in a regular pattern. On fakes, the dial is often just stamped with a grid to mimic the complex texture of an authentic Offshore. Also, look at the finish on the case. A real Oak Offshore will have an even finish all over with no variations in color or rough spots. Any flaws indicate that you're likely looking at a replica. When in doubt, a licensed appraiser or knowledgeable appraiser can assist you with authentication. Explore a collection of Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore watches on 1stDibs.

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