One of the most famous Swiss watchmakers, Audemars Piquet is mostly recognized for luxurious watchwear and craftsmanship. Collectors love them for their exclusive designs.
However, they come with comparatively bigger price tags. Audemars Piquet watches range from 22,906$ to 74,900$.
Today, we will discuss why Audemars Piguet is so expensive and how worthy it is as an asset.
10 Factors for Which Audemars Piquet Are So Expensive!
Audemars Piguet is more of a brand than a watch and here are the top 10 reasons that make Audemars Piguet so expensive.
1. Exquisite Craftsmanship
Audemars Piguet's watches go hand-in-hand to bring out the best of the watches. Every single part of the timepiece requires hundreds of hours under magnification.
Among them are:
- Anglage, or beveling
- Perlage, which is circular graining
- Côtes de Genève, or Geneva stripes—techniques used to enhance the look of the movement but also to function smoothly in operation.
This attention to detail boosts the overall aesthetics and even contributes to the smooth operation of their watches.
The watchmakers at Audemars Piguet are professionals and they come with outstanding experience and expertise.
Remarkable training and high brand standards ensure that only the most proficient get to work on these timekeepers.
This very fact in itself results in timepieces that are both aesthetically outstanding and reliably strong.
Making an Audemars Piguet watch is very time-consuming. From design to final assembly, months usually pass before a watch has been constructed.
Design can even take years as it is elaborately tested and prototyped. Once the design is approved, then each component is handcrafted and assembled. This is one of the reasons why the cost of the watch is so high.
2. Innovative Design and Technology
Audemars Piguet leads in watchmaking technology and puts in the latest developments into watches. For instance, certain models use silicon escapements, which reduce friction, thereby providing better accuracy. This makes each watch an artwork and a wonder of modern engineering.
The Audemars Piguet's designs are unique and innovative. Its octagonal bezel and "Tapisserie" dial are quite a demanding trend in the watchmaking industry.
This ability to create original timeless designs is what gives so much added value to their watches. Moreover, Audemars Piguet has also put on the latest materials and techniques to toughen their watches and improve their efficiency.
The watches are equipped with advanced ceramics, carbon composites, and forged carbon—things that look marvelous and are ultra-strong, with very high wear resistance. These innovative materials contribute considerably to the total cost of production, hence elevating the prices of their watches.
3. Limited Production and Exclusivity
Very often, Audemars Piguet releases limited editions of watches.
As there are only a few of these special models available for sale, they are highly demanded by collectors, making them very expensive. This is naturally price-enhancing, given the exclusivity of owning one of these watches.
This brand keeps the overall production volumes relatively low. Doing so gives a watch proper attention to detail and quality control. This is exactly what real masterpieces are made of; however, supply is naturally limited. A scarce offer of Audemars Piguet watches enhances their value and makes them more exclusive.
The concept of scarcity and demand drives this luxury watch market. It is in controlling production and unique design that Audemars Piguet ensures the watches are exclusive.
4. High-Quality Materials
Audemars Piguet only uses the finest metals, which are already quite precious: gold, platinum, and white gold. It's not used because it looks good; it is also for the fact that this material raises the value of timepieces.
The expensive materials are also one of the key factors that skyrocket the watch prices.
Besides precious metals, the brand also uses high-quality stainless steel and titanium. The reason for using these materials is durability and resistance to wear. High-grade stainless steel does not rust and also has a long service life.
Titanium is light yet strong, hence suitable for making sports watches. These high-quality raw materials increase the price of the whole watch.
The Audemars Piguet watch face is also made from sapphire crystals. Since this is one of the hardest materials, second only to diamond, there exists high scratch resistance that gives distinct clarity.
Other fine materials that help add to that sense of luxury, like adding a pricey value to their watches, are fine leather, alligator skin, and even rubber for the straps.
5. Brand Heritage and Legacy
Audemars Piguet was founded in 1875 by Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet. The company became quite recognized for its classic designs and overall value.
That’s not all; the brand also managed to make its name for its excellent watchmaking, quality and looks.
This overall history increases the prestige of the brand and, consequently, speaks to the prices for high-range timepieces.
The heritage and legacy of Audemars Piguet are inseparable from its value. It creates extraordinary timekeepers, one of which is Royal Oak, already an icon in its class.
Moreover, the heritage of innovation and craftsmanship gives Audemars Piguet watches special regard in the hearts of watch collectors. It preserves traditional watchmaking but conquers new technologies at the same time. This single fact makes it rather unique and attractive to watch connoisseurs.
Brand reputation is everything in luxury watchmaking. Audemars Piguet stands for something: creating some of the finest watches in the world, and hence, luxury prices are apt. One isn't buying a timepiece so much as a brand that speaks to quality, innovation, and ageless style.
6. Complex Movements
Audemars Piguet does the watch movements in-house. This ensures absolute control over the quality and precision of the components of movement.
It is more expensive to make the movements in-house as compared to buying from other companies, but the benefit is in assuring that each movement meets the very high standards of the brand.
With Audemars Piguet managing the entire production process, there is assurance of the highest level of watchmaking craft and reliability for watches under this brand.
The movements used by Audemars Piguet in watches are very complicated and highly accurate. Supreme complications, as in the case of perpetual calendars, minute repeaters, and tourbillons, characterize the brand.
These kinds of movements require a great deal of skill and expertise to produce, increasing the cost of the watches.
This brand itself is a class of exceptional technical capabilities through the precision and reliability of the movement.
Some of the iconic movements from Audemars Piguet would be the Royal Oak Offshore chronograph and the oval-shaped movement in the Millenary.
These are breathtaking movements that prove a justification for the price tag placed on these timepieces.
The attention to detail coupled with the precision of engineering truly makes for a wow factor when considering these movements.
7. Collaborations and Limited Editions
Quite often, Audemars Piguet cooperates with well-known artists and designers on the development of special watches, which often turn out to be exclusive.
Such collaboration, with famous artists or designers, gives rise to limited models and is highly sparking interest among collectors. Famous collaborators contribute to the fame and price of watches.
For example, cooperation with famous contemporary creators such as Romain Gauthier and Michael Schumacher gave birth to some of the most original models belonging to this brand.
These watches, which are a product of collaboration by these artists, are really created in very small numbers. In effect, it is the rarity and exclusiveness that increase their value even more, with collectors ready to pay more for such special pieces.
There is a story behind each limited edition watch, making the watch not just a time-showing device but an art and history in its own right as well.
Such collaborations with famous artists and designers are not only aesthetically pleasing to watches but also skyrocket their value.
Moreover, such collaborations include unique designs that can be released only in a limited volume, contributing to the high cost of Audemars Piguet watches.
These watches are often created as collector's items; this fact contributes much to their price.
8. Customization and Personalization
Audemars Piguet provides clients with the opportunity to personalize the watches according to their liking. This is done through the selection of materials, finishes, and features that create a unique watch.
This is what makes these customized watches very expensive. With the collaboration of skilled artisans from this brand, one-of-a-kind watches can be made.
Apart from custom designs, the engravings and features can also be personalized. Whether it be a message or some unique pattern, such personal touches add sentimental value to the watch and this further increases its price.
One of the major reasons for the value of this brand to be so high is due to the watch’s customization and personalization. The unique features of the watches make them so much in demand.
9. After-Sales Service and Maintenance
Audemars Piguet comes with one of the best after-sales services to ensure that the watches remain in good shape. It even offers routine maintenance, repair, and restoration services for the watches.
Such interest in after-sale service makes Audemars watches long-lasting and reliable. This level of after-sale service brings peace of mind to the owner, as they know their investment is well cared for.
Service and maintenance are second to none with Audemars Piguet. This brand has watchmakers who are skilled in dealing with the intricacies of such watches.
Regular maintenance will ensure that the watches keep their accuracy and showroom glow. In essence, this level of after-sales service detail adds value to the overall cost of the watch.
Audemars Piguet provides warranty services and very fine customer support for the watches. The warranty covers manufacturing defects and secures prompt attention to problems that may arise.
The customer support team works tirelessly to make sure the best service is accorded to their clients. This is where, through such support and warranty coverage, one can justify the price premium that characterizes these watches, bringing in long-term satisfaction and reliability.
10. Market Demand and Investment Value
Specifically, Audemars Piguet watches have become the target of many collectors and watch enthusiasts. The brand boasts very good prestige, coupled with small production levels and exclusive designs.
As a result of this high demand, there are often more buyers than available timepieces. In this respect, collectors appreciate the rarity and exclusivity of Audemars Piguet watches by their readiness to pay a premium price.
In many models, Audemars Piguet watches have not only a beautiful appearance and the capacity for high-quality performance but also investment potential.
This is why, many of them increase in value over time, therefore proving to be a good investment. Much of their resale value is higher than the price paid during the original purchase, more so for limited series and unique features. Its investment potential added in only increased the allure and expense of the watches.
The pricing of Audemars Piguet watches is tremendously helped by market trends and fluctuations. It is economic conditions, consumer tastes, and watch community trends that drive the luxury watch market.
How Audemars Piguet has adapted itself to these changing trends while being able to retain its heritage and exclusivity is what helps sustain and increase the value of its watches. It is this ability of the brand to maneuver with the market trends that keep its watches desirable and of value.
Ready To Get Into Luxury? - Contact Great Lakes Watch Today
Audemars Piguet watches come with a high price tag because of their top-notch craftsmanship, unique design, and high-quality materials. Their rich heritage, complex movements, and personalized options add to their allure. Owning one isn't just about luxury; it's a lasting investment in art and tradition.
Great Lakes Watch has a list of Audemars Piguet watches that can be an amazing addition to your collections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Audemars Piguet watches so expensive?
Audemars Piguet watches are made from some of the finest and most luxurious raw materials, metals, and stones. They even have ace craftsmen who ensure the top-notch quality of the watches.
Are Audemars Piguet watches worth the investment?
Yes, they are! Audemars Piguet watches easily retain their value when compared to other watch brands.
What makes Audemars Piguet different from other luxury watch brands?
It simply has to make use of the finest materials, and Audemars Piguet does just that. The timepieces created by this manufacturer represent an unbeatable range that starts from satin-polished steel models and finishes with luxurious ones made of precious metals like gold and platinum, all exuding class and style.
How does the brand ensure the quality of its watches?
Instead, where conventional watch brands would opt for stainless steel, it chooses black ceramic. The material goes through a labor-intensive process of both machine-finishing and hand-polishing to give it an ideal mix of satin-brushed and polished finishes.
Can I customize an Audemars Piguet watch?
Yes, this is possible. You can simply send the sample of your design to the makers and manufacturers and they will customize it for you.
What are some iconic models of Audemars Piguet?
The Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore still carry much of the ground-breaking spirit that epitomized their ancestors from 1972 and 1993, respectively.