THE FOUNDING YEARS: 1874-1881

Before the merger, Audemars and Piguet individually contributed to the world of watchmaking. Audemars specialized in crafting intricate watch movements, while Piguet focused on the final regulation. In 1875, their collaboration gave birth to Audemars Piguet & Cie, officially adopting the name in 1881. The duo's synergy marked the beginning of a legacy that would endure over a century. In 1892, Audemars Piguet achieved a milestone by creating the first-minute repeater wristwatch. The pinnacle came in 1899 with the release of the Grand Complication pocket watch, a masterpiece featuring a minute repeater, alarm, perpetual calendar, deadbeat seconds, chronograph, and split-seconds hand.

CONTINUING A LEGACY: 1910S-1960S

Despite the tragic loss of Audemars and Piguet in 1918 and 1919, the brand persevered under the stewardship of the next generation – Paul Louis Audemars and Paul Edward Piguet. The early to mid-1900s witnessed Audemars Piguet's commitment to innovation, marked by the release of the thinnest pocket watch caliber in 1925 and the world's thinnest wristwatch in 1946. In 1957, the brand introduced the first Audemars Piguet perpetual calendar wristwatch, setting the stage for more records with the thinnest self-winding automatic caliber in 1967.

CHALLENGE NECESSITATES INNOVATION: 1970S

The 1970s posed challenges for traditional watchmakers due to the quartz crisis. In response, Audemars Piguet, in collaboration with Swiss watch designer Gerald Genta, unveiled the iconic Royal Oak in 1972. Crafted from stainless steel with an integrated bracelet and a distinctive octagonal bezel, the Royal Oak revolutionized luxury sports watches and solidified Audemars Piguet's position as an industry leader.

INGENUITY AT ITS BEST: 1990S

While the 1990s may be considered quieter for Audemars Piguet, it was a period of creative brilliance. Notable releases included the Star Wheel Wandering Hours wristwatch in 1991, showcasing spinning discs mounted on star-shaped wheels. The Royal Oak Offshore collection, launched in 1993, marked a sportier evolution of the original model with enhanced water resistance.

MODERN DAY RELEASES AND INNOVATIONS: 2000S AND ON

Audemars Piguet continues to redefine watchmaking in the 21st century with a series of groundbreaking releases. The innovative use of materials, such as ceramic, has become a hallmark. The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar in black ceramic, introduced in 2017, exemplifies the brand's commitment to pushing boundaries. The Code 11.59 collection, introduced in 2019, represents Audemars Piguet's venture into a new design language. Featuring a circular case with octagonal flanks, skeletonized lugs, and a unique crystal design, the collection showcases the brand's dedication to pushing the boundaries of conventional design. The collaboration with Marvel in 2021 resulted in the Royal Oak Concept Black Panther Flying Tourbillon, a limited-edition masterpiece that fuses horology and pop culture.

PIONEERING IN QUARTZ

Audemars Piguet, despite its roots in traditional watchmaking, hasn't shied away from quartz movements. Notably, the brand employs quartz movements in ladies' watches under 35mm. Models like the Rose Gold Royal Oak with a blue dial and diamond bezel showcase the brand's versatility in catering to diverse preferences.

PRICING AND COLLECTIBILITY

Audemars Piguet, often considered a horological icon, commands varying prices based on collection, materials, gem settings, and whether purchased from a boutique or the secondary market. Secondary market prices in the WatchBox inventory range from $7,950 to $300,000, reflecting the brand's desirability and historical significance.

Owning an Audemars Piguet, especially a steel Royal Oak, has become a coveted achievement among collectors. The brand's commitment to craftsmanship, coupled with limited production and iconic designs, contributes to the sustained value of Audemars Piguet timepieces. As Audemars Piguet continues to shape the future of watchmaking, its legacy stands as a testament to innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological excellence. Each tick of an Audemars Piguet watch echoes through time, encapsulating the brand's journey from its inception in 1875 to the present day.