Why Choose Louis Martin Jewelers
Featured Vintage Audemars Piguet
Our Vintage Audemars Piguet Buyer’s Guide
Why Collect Vintage Audemars Piguet Watches?
- Known for pioneering designs like the Royal Oak's octagonal bezel
- Strong legacy in luxury sports watch innovation
- Meticulous in-house movements and finishing
- Appreciated globally by collectors and investors
- Limited production increases exclusivity and long-term value
Founded in 1875, Audemars Piguet has been at the forefront of horological innovation. The Royal Oak, introduced in 1972, redefined luxury sports watches with its integrated bracelet and industrial design.
At Louis Martin Jewelers, we focus on authenticated vintage Audemars Piguet models from the 1920s through late 1900's—each selected for its originality, condition, and long-term collectibility
Authenticating Vintage Audemars Piguet Watches
As AP has grown in recognition, so has the number of counterfeit or modified pieces in circulation. Verifying a vintage Audemars Piguet’s authenticity protects your investment and preserves the brand’s integrity. Our process is designed to deliver peace of mind by confirming originality at every level.
- Genuine Audemars Piguet watches are crafted from high-grade materials, with precise case finishing and weight that reflects authenticity.
- The Royal Oak’s iconic bezel must exhibit crisp lines and uniform screws.
- We inspect internal movements to confirm original calibers, often manufactured in-house by AP.
- Movement finishing, bridge configuration, and rotor details are evaluated against reference records.
Serial sequences follow a specific alphanumeric format. We verify against production logs and placement standards.
- The “Tapisserie” dial of Royal Oak models is highly detailed and difficult to replicate. We assess printing quality and subdial layout.
- Hands are evaluated for correct style, polish, and size according to reference guides.
- Crowns should be signed and aligned properly. Pushers on chronographs must function smoothly.
- Casebacks are examined for engraving depth, font style, and consistency with production year.
- The integrated bracelet must align seamlessly with the case.
- Clasp engravings are assessed for sharpness, clarity, and placement.
- While original boxes and papers increase value, our authentication does not rely on documentation alone.
- Every watch includes our in-house certificate of authenticity and condition report.
Brief and clear answer
Understanding Vintage Audemars Piguet Watches as an Investment
Investment-Grade Vintage Audemars Piguet Models
A highly collectible "Jumbo" reference closely tied to Gerald Genta’s original design.
Mid-century chronos with historic significance and limited production.
These showcase AP’s expertise in complicated watchmaking and are often produced in small batches.
Caring for Vintage Audemars Piguet Watches
- Manual and automatic AP models should be serviced every 3–5 years.
- Avoid shocks, moisture, and magnetic fields—especially for early sports models.
- Always wind manually with gentle pressure; avoid over-tightening.
- Store flat in a padded, climate-controlled case.
- Keep away from UV exposure and strong magnets.
- If not worn regularly, rotate watches to maintain power reserve and lubrication.
- Use a microfiber cloth for daily cleaning.
- Condition leather straps as needed; avoid direct water contact.
- Wash steel bracelets gently with soapy water and dry thoroughly.
FAQs About Vintage Audemars Piguet Watches
Every piece we sell goes through a multi-point inspection. We verify serial numbers, movement caliber, dial originality, and bracelet configuration.
Not necessarily. While they help with resale value, the key to investment-grade pieces is authenticity, condition, and historical accuracy which is something we verify thoroughly.
Yes. In particular, early Royal Oak models and vintage chronographs have shown strong year-over-year appreciation.
We typically recommend the Royal Oak “Jumbo,” early QPs (perpetual calendars), and mid-century chronographs.
Yes, though we recommend caution with older models. Use gently and avoid high-impact activities.
We recommend inquiring through our service team at Louis Martin. We partner with experienced watchmakers who specialize in vintage AP calibers.