Audemars Piguet, one of the most prestigious names in haute horlogerie, has been synonymous with excellence, innovation, and craftsmanship for over a century. At the heart of this legendary brand are the master watchmakers whose dedication and passion bring each Audemars Piguet timepiece to life. Their work goes beyond mere assembly; it’s an intricate blend of art, precision, and mechanical expertise that reflects the brand’s enduring commitment to both tradition and innovation.
In this exclusive feature, we delve into the lives and stories of Audemars Piguet’s master artisans, exploring their journeys, techniques, and philosophies. Through a series of candid interviews, these craftsmen reveal the passion that fuels their creations and the meticulous processes behind some of the world’s most coveted timepieces.
The Legacy of Audemars Piguet’s Master Watchmakers
Since its founding in 1875 in the Vallée de Joux, Switzerland, Audemars Piguet has prided itself on maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship. Every timepiece that leaves its atelier is a testament to centuries of horological expertise. But what truly sets Audemars Piguet apart is its community of master watchmakers who are guardians of this legacy.
The artisans behind Audemars Piguet’s masterpieces are more than skilled technicians—they are storytellers, with each watch they create serving as a chapter in the brand’s rich narrative. Whether working on grande complications or designing avant-garde pieces like the Royal Oak, these watchmakers blend traditional techniques with cutting-edge innovation to craft timepieces that stand the test of time.
1: The Art of Complication with Jean-Luc, Master Horologist
Q: What drew you to the world of haute horlogerie?
Jean-Luc: I was born and raised in the Vallée de Joux, where watchmaking is part of the local culture. My fascination with mechanical objects began when I was very young, watching my father repair clocks. Eventually, this fascination turned into a passion, and I was fortunate enough to apprentice at Audemars Piguet. I’ve been with the company for over 25 years now, focusing on crafting complicated watches, particularly those with minute repeaters and perpetual calendars.
Q: What sets Audemars Piguet apart in the world of complications?
Jean-Luc: It’s the attention to detail and the respect for tradition. Each complication is hand-assembled, which allows us to ensure the highest level of precision. We also embrace innovation—our complications are not only technical marvels but also aesthetically beautiful. For example, creating a minute repeater involves over 300 components, all of which are meticulously designed and assembled by hand. The sound of the chimes is tested multiple times to ensure it meets our standards, and that’s what makes Audemars Piguet unique.
Interview 2: The Royal Oak Revolution with Elise, Case and Dial Artisan
Q: The Royal Oak is one of the most iconic designs in watchmaking. What is your role in crafting these iconic cases?
Elise: I’ve been working on the Royal Oak for over a decade, focusing primarily on the finishing of the case and bracelet. The Royal Oak is famous for its octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet, and ensuring that each piece matches the precise standards of Audemars Piguet is both a challenge and a joy. The finishing process is what really brings the design to life—each bevel is hand-polished to a mirror finish, and the satin-brushed surfaces are delicately applied to create a contrast that’s instantly recognizable.
Q: What is your favorite part of working on the Royal Oak?
Elise: Definitely the bracelet. It’s composed of so many small links, and each one has to be perfectly aligned and polished. The interplay of light on the bracelet is stunning when it’s done right. It’s a difficult process, but knowing that you’re contributing to a watch that has been a design icon for over 50 years is very fulfilling.
Interview 3: The Art of Movement Assembly with Olivier, Master Movement Specialist
Q: Can you describe the process of assembling a movement at Audemars Piguet?
Olivier: Assembling a movement is like conducting an orchestra. Each component must be in perfect harmony with the others. It starts with receiving the components, which are all manufactured and finished by hand. My role is to ensure that everything works seamlessly. One of the most challenging aspects is assembling tourbillon movements. The precision required is incredible, as even the smallest miscalculation can throw off the accuracy of the entire watch.
Q: How has technology influenced the way you work?
Olivier: Technology has certainly made our lives easier in terms of testing and refining the movements, but the actual assembly is still done by hand. There’s something irreplaceable about human touch when it comes to watchmaking. For instance, when I’m adjusting a tourbillon, I rely on both the feel and the sound of the components coming together, something machines simply can’t replicate.
Interview 4: A Passion for Finishing with Marc, Master Engraver
Q: What does it mean to be a master engraver at Audemars Piguet?
Marc: Being a master engraver is all about patience and precision. At Audemars Piguet, we believe that even the parts of the watch that are hidden from view, like the bridges and movement plates, should be beautifully finished. My job is to add intricate engravings and decorative motifs to these components. It’s a painstaking process—sometimes it takes several days just to complete one part—but the result is worth it.
Q: How do you balance tradition and innovation in your work?
Marc: Audemars Piguet is a brand that respects tradition, but we also embrace new techniques. For example, while we still use traditional engraving tools, we also experiment with laser technology for more complex designs. The key is to keep pushing boundaries without losing the craftsmanship that defines us.
Craftsmanship That Lasts a Lifetime
These interviews offer just a glimpse into the dedication and artistry that define Audemars Piguet. Every master watchmaker at the company brings their own unique expertise and passion to the table, ensuring that each watch is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. From crafting intricate complications to designing iconic cases and dials, these artisans are the driving force behind the brand’s continued success.
As luxury watch collectors and enthusiasts around the world continue to seek out Audemars Piguet timepieces, it’s the master watchmakers who keep the brand at the pinnacle of horological excellence. Through their hands, Audemars Piguet continues to create watches that are not only functional but also works of art that transcend time.
Conclusion
Audemars Piguet’s master watchmakers are the true custodians of the brand’s legacy. Their unwavering commitment to excellence, combined with their passion for innovation, ensures that each timepiece reflects the pinnacle of craftsmanship. As we’ve seen through these interviews, their artistry, skill, and dedication are what make Audemars Piguet a leader in the world of luxury watchmaking.
