Investing doesn't come with guarantees, especially in the world of luxury watches, which keeps evolving. Despite this unpredictability, specific luxury watches stand out as potentially strong investments. Collectors and experts often believe these will increase in value over time.

One such brand with a stellar reputation for investment potential is Audemars Piguet. Renowned worldwide, Audemars Piguet has a dedicated fan base and a significant luxury watch market share. Many collectors consider owning an Audemars Piguet watch not just for luxury but also as a wise investment choice.

Here’s why investing in Audemars Piguet is a smart choice.

A Brief History Of Audemars Piguet

In 19th-century Switzerland, many villages relied on farming for income. During winters, when farming slowed down, people needed another way to earn money. That's when watchmaking became popular, as artisans could work from home.

Two locals, Jules Louis Audemars, and Edward Auguste Piguet, were trained watchmakers. Audemars dad, a farmer and watchmaker, had a workshop on their farm. In 1874, when Piguet was 21 and Audemars was 23, they started Audemars Piguet & Cie in 1875, using Audemars' farm workshop.

Piguet was great at business and sales, while Audemars was skilled in watchmaking. This combo made their brand grow fast. Their first factory, built in 1907 next to the farm, is still part of their headquarters today.

Is Audemars Piguet Worth the Investment?

Audemars Piguet is one of the top luxury watch brands globally, but it can be pretty expensive, especially if you're new to collecting watches. 

So, what makes it worth the investment? 

1. Intricate Craftsmanship

Audemars Piguet is not just a luxury watch brand but a symbol of unmatched craftsmanship and innovation in the watch industry. What sets Audemar Piguet apart is their unwavering dedication to perfection. 

The brand is known to take as much time as needed rather than rush to ensure that every watch it produces meets its high standards of quality and excellence. This meticulous approach earns it its reputation for producing some of the finest watches in the world.

2. Quality Materials for Premium Watches

When investing in an Audemars Piguet watch, you're not just buying a luxury timepiece but top-notch quality materials and craftsmanship. From the finest metals for the case to the intricate movements and even the smallest screws, every component is carefully selected and crafted to perfection. 

3. Limited Production Adds Value

One reason Audemars Piguet watches are highly coveted is their limited production. Unlike mass-produced watches, Audemars Piguet releases only a small number of watches each year. This scarcity adds to their exclusivity, making them even more desirable among collectors and watch enthusiasts. 

The Best Audemars Piguet Watches to Investment On

The Royal Oak stands out when discussing the best Audemars Piguet watch for investing. Whether the classic ref, 15202ST, or the slim 'Jumbo' Extra Thin, these models are pretty popular and can be great investments.

The Royal Oak has been a hit since it was first introduced at the Swiss watch show in 1972. It has been highly popular since its 50th-anniversary celebrations in 2022.

Audemars Piguet released new editions to mark this occasion and discontinued the steel versions of the Royal Oak watches. This move has made every new release highly sought after, while interest in the older steel models has surged.

Some of the top Audemars Piguet watches for investing right now include:

1. Royal Oak REF. 15202ST

The Royal Oak REF. 15202ST is a modern watch from Audemars Piguet that can be quite expensive. Getting a new REF. 15202ST these days is nearly impossible, so it's sold at around twice its original price on the second-hand market. 

While this might seem like a lot now, if Audemars Piguet stops making it, the cost could skyrocket, reaching six figures over time if the demand stays high.

2. Reference 5402

The Reference 5402 is a vintage model from what some call Audemars Piguet's golden era. Designed by the renowned watch designer Gerald Genta, these early models have become highly popular and valuable in recent years. It's believed that only about 2000 of these references were ever made.

3. “Jumbo” Extra Thin Reference 15202

The "Jumbo" Extra Thin Reference 15202 is a remarkable new release from Audemars Piguet that quickly sold out when it first came out in 2019. Its enduring appeal has made it a must-have for collectors. The prices for this model have risen significantly, far surpassing its original price of around *$31,000. Given its attractiveness, it's likely to keep increasing in value in the future.

4. Royal Oak Selfwinding 15400ST

Despite some design changes, the Royal Oak Selfwinding 15400ST reference is designed with a nod to the past. It features a classic, smaller logo instead of the more prominent logo seen on many new Audemars Piguet watches. The return of the double-baton index on this model was a pleasant surprise for fans when it was first released.

Conclusion

When it comes to buying luxury watches, it's not just about investment but also a profoundly personal experience. Finding that perfect watch that speaks to you and complements your style is a feeling that's unique to watch enthusiasts.

Luxury Time NYC is here to assist you if you want to add an Audemars Piguet watch to your collection, whether for investment or personal enjoyment. With our expertise in luxury timepieces, we're well-equipped to help you find your dream watch. 

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you find the perfect Audemars Piguet.