History of Audemars Piguet

The History of Audemars Piguet is unique. Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet, childhood friends, joined forces to create mechanical timepieces in the 1870s. In 1875, they joined forces to create the brand we know today as Audemars Piguet. Few watchmakers have revolutionized the world of horology, such as Audemars Piguet. The company’s motto, “To Break the Rules, You Must First Master Them,” ensures continual innovation and top-quality luxury watches. If you want to invest in an Audemars Piguet watch, Atlanta Luxury Watches can help you find the ideal model. Let’s look at the history of this iconic brand to help you decide when you visit our watch store.

1874-1881: Founding Years of Audemars Piguet

The story of Audemars Piguet begins in the Swiss village of Le Brassus in the Vallée de Joux, where two childhood friends, Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet, rekindled their friendship in the early 1870s. These two visionary watchmakers joined forces in 1875, establishing the brand that would later become Audemars Piguet. Their shared passion for crafting intricate mechanical luxury watches led to creating a company that would shape the industry’s future.

1910s-1960s: Continuing a Legacy

Audemars Piguet continued to make strides in watchmaking at the start of the 20th century, solidifying its reputation for crafting exceptional luxury watches. The brand is synonymous with intricate complications and high-quality craftsmanship, making timepieces sought-after by collectors and connoisseurs. A notable Audemars Piguet watch from this era was the first-ever minute-repeating wristwatch in 1892, showcasing the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of horology.

The 1970s: Challenge Requires Innovation

The 1970s posed significant challenges for the Swiss watch industry because of quartz technology and the Quartz Crisis. However, Audemars Piguet refused to succumb to adversity, embracing innovation to design the Royal Oak in 1972 by the legendary Gerald Genta. This iconic stainless steel luxury sports watch defied conventions and redefined the industry. The timepiece features a bold octagonal bezel, and an integrated bracelet, symbolizing audacity and creative vision.

1990s: Ingenuity at Its Best

In the 1990s, Audemars Piguet continued to innovate groundbreaking complications and materials. One notable achievement during this period was the Royal Oak Offshore collection, a more robust and sporty extension of the Royal Oak line. The Swiss company also delved into the world of haute horlogerie, producing exquisite luxury watches with intricate complications like perpetual calendars and minute repeaters. Audemars Piguet proved its commitment to preserving the art of traditional watchmaking while embracing modernity.

2000s and On: Modern Day Releases and Innovations

In the 21st century, Audemars Piguet has kept its quest for innovation. The Swiss brand has continued to produce remarkable luxury watches that blend traditional craftsmanship with innovative technology. The Royal Oak Concept collection, introduced in the 2000s, exemplifies this fusion, featuring unique designs and materials like forged carbon and titanium. In addition, the brand has explored new avenues through collaborations, such as the Audemars Piguet x LeBron James partnership, which created exclusive timepieces.

The history of Audemars Piguet is a testament to the enduring legacy of two visionary watchmakers who defied conventions and embraced innovation. From its humble beginnings in the 19th century to its position as a global leader in horology today, Audemars Piguet has consistently pushed the boundaries of watchmaking. Contact us at Atlanta Luxury Watches or visit our watch store to access top-tier pieces from your favorite brands.