When it comes to luxury watches, Audemars Piguet (AP) often stands at the top. Many people wonder why these watches carry such high price tags. Is it the craftsmanship, the rare materials, or the brand’s reputation that makes them so valuable? The truth is—it’s a mix of all these factors and more.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at why Audemars Piguet watches are considered some of the most expensive and exclusive timepieces in the world.
A Quick Introduction to Audemars Piguet
Audemars Piguet has been in the watch business for more than 100 years. Two youthful watchmakers, Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet, began the brand in the Swiss village of Le Brassus in 1875. In the very beginning, they wanted to create some watches that would perfectly combine technical excellence and works of art.
Audemars Piguet has remained loyal to its traditions over the years and has continually challenged the limits of watchmaking. Today, it has a well-known bold design, amazing craftsmanship, and breakthrough innovations that have reshaped how individuals view luxury watches.
A Glimpse Into the History of Audemars Piguet
From its early days, Audemars Piguet built a reputation for creating complex watch movements. In 1892, the brand introduced the world’s first minute repeater wristwatch, a feat that marked its entry into the spotlight.
The biggest turning point came in 1972 with the launch of the Royal Oak. Designed by Gérald Genta, this model was unlike anything the industry had ever seen. Instead of using gold or platinum, AP made it in stainless steel—a bold move at the time. Its octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet broke all the traditional rules and created an entirely new category: the luxury sports watch.
This spirit of innovation and risk-taking is what has kept Audemars Piguet ahead of the game for generations.
Why Are Audemars Piguet Watches So Expensive?
Several key factors explain the high prices of Audemars Piguet watches. Let’s explore them one by one.
1. Exceptional Craftsmanship
Every Audemars Piguet watch is a masterpiece of artistry and engineering. Unlike mass-produced watches, AP timepieces are built using age-old techniques combined with modern innovations. Each detail—from the polished case to the engraved movements—is carefully done by hand.
This level of craftsmanship requires years of training to perfect and entails hundreds of hours of work for each watch. The result is not just a watch, but a wearable piece of art.
2. Precision Handwork
The accuracy in an Audemars Piguet watch does not occur by chance. The watchmakers spend hundreds of hours adjusting every bit of the mechanism. The smallest details are refined and painted by hand. The finishing (such as Cotes de Genève) and its beveled edges add to the movement and its characteristic beauty.
This dedication ensures that every AP watch not only looks extraordinary but also performs with unmatched accuracy.
3. Skilled Artisans and Generational Knowledge
Behind every Audemars Piguet watch is a team of master artisans—watchmakers, engravers, jewel setters, and designers—who dedicate their lives to perfecting their craft. Many skills have been passed down through generations in Le Brassus, where AP’s workshops still operate today.
This combination of heritage, expertise, and innovation gives each watch its soul, explaining why the brand is held in such high regard.
4. Premium Materials
Audemars Piguet does not wedge on materials. They are made of the finest 18-carat gold, platinum, titanium, hi-tech ceramics, and even custom alloys. Diamonds and gemstones are carefully selected for brilliance and durability.
In addition to traditional luxury materials, AP invests heavily in research to develop new, innovative materials that enhance the durability and reliability of its watches. This includes scratch-resistant sapphire crystals and lightweight, hypoallergenic metals.
5. Strict Quality Control
Every Audemars Piguet watch goes through a rigorous inspection process before it reaches the market. Each component, movement, and case is tested for accuracy, durability, and water resistance.
Unlike many other brands, AP rejects pieces that don’t meet its extremely high standards—even if they would be considered “perfect” elsewhere. This commitment to perfection ensures that only the best watches carry the AP name.
6. Innovative Design and Complications
Audemars Piguet has no fear of innovating. The brand is famous for making complex watches with the best mechanisms like tourbillons, perpetual calendar watches, and minute repeaters. The elements involved in them are very skilled and might take months or even years to finish.
The Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore collections show AP’s design genius. Their bold looks, unique case shapes, and integrated bracelets set them apart from anything else in the market. Models like the Millenary also highlight AP’s ability to mix traditional watchmaking with modern design.
7. Cutting-Edge Technology
While craftsmanship is rooted in tradition, Audemars Piguet also embraces technology. The brand continually invests in new machinery and techniques to enhance precision and efficiency, while maintaining the handmade essence of its watches.
This blend of modern innovation and old-world artistry ensures every watch is both reliable and timeless.
8. Limited Production and Exclusivity
Compared to other brands that produce watches in large quantities, Audemars Piguet produces a small number of watches annually. This would render their timepieces very desirable. There is never enough supply, but demand increases value.
The watches are also made by hand, which limits production. This defines having an Audemars Piguet as a factor of not only keeping time, but also having something special and exclusive.
Final Thoughts – Why Are Audemars Piguet Watches So Expensive
Audemars Piguet watches are expensive because they represent the pinnacle of watchmaking, encompassing heritage, craftsmanship, precision, innovation, and exclusivity. Every detail, from the choice of materials to the finishing of the watch, reflects the brand’s pursuit of perfection.
At Superlative Watch Company, we understand the fascination behind Audemars Piguet watches. Whether you want to purchase, sell, or service your timepiece, our expertise ensures you get the guidance and care you deserve.
Contact us today and let us assist you with all your luxury watch needs.
