Audemars Piguet represents the peak of Swiss luxury watchmaking. As a proud partner of the Holy Trinity alongside brands Vacheron Constantin and Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet has dutifully created phenomenal timepieces renowned for pushing boundaries in both design and technical innovation.
From the revolutionary Royal Oak to the avant-garde Code 11.59, Audemars Piguet collections showcase distinct facets of horological excellence, each representing unique design elements and complications that cater to diverse preferences and lifestyles.
Whether you seek a sophisticated dress watch or a classic sports piece, Audemars Piguet offers something truly exceptional for every type of watch enthusiast. Below, weâve selected the 25 best watches from the Maison that will appeal to both seasoned collectors and those just beginning their horology journey.
Without further contemplation, letâs get into it.
25 Audemars Piguet Watches For Every Watch Enthusiast
1. Royal Oak Offshore âEnd of Daysâ, Ref: 25770SN
For his 1999 film âEnd of Daysâ, Arnold Schwarzenegger collaborated with Audemars Piguet on a watch, the AP Royal Oak Offshore Ref: 25770SN. The watch was a Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph crafted in black PVD-coated stainless steel, with the bezel, clasp, and crown pushers all made of black PVD steel. The watch in the movie featured a black dial with yellow Arabic numerals, a date window at 3 oâclock and three sub-dials. With a limited production run of only 500 pieces, this large and bold watch is culturally and historically significant.
2. Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon GMT, Ref: 26580I0
Released in 2014, the Royal Oak Concept 26580I0 immediately earned the nickname âStormtrooperâ upon its release due to its white colourway and sci-fi looks. In horology, itâs uncommon to find a tourbillon and a GMT complication together, and thatâs where this striking chunk of titanium and ceramic stands out. This was APâs third Concept model, boasting a commendable 237-hour power reserve, meaning you can easily go out on a holiday and come home to find itâs still ticking.
3. Royal Oak âJumboâ, Ref: 5402
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ref. 5402, also known as the âJumboâ, was the first generation of the Royal Oak line, introduced in 1972. Designed by Gerald Genta in 1970, this is where it all started for AP. This groundbreaking timepiece was characterised by its 39mm size, featuring an octagonal bezel with exposed screws, a blue âtapisserieâ dial, an integrated bracelet, and housing the Calibre 2121 movement. This AP sports reference is incredibly rare, making it one of the most sought-after Rolex Oak models.
4. Royal Oak Offshore Diver Chronograph, Ref: 26703ST.OO.A027CA.01
AP combines two of its best-selling mechanisms, the chronograph and the diver, to create a pure tool for Divers, but of course, with a luxurious AP feel. Coming on a steel case with the iconic octagonal bezel, a blue dial featuring polished hands, indexes, white markers, and an inner bezel with a bold yellow 60-minute scale, the Ref. 26703ST.OO.A027CA.01 is bright, funky and purposeful. Even with the chronograph feature, it offers a water resistance of 300 metres and a minimum power reserve of 50 hours.
5. Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon Extra Thin, Ref: 26660ST.OO.1356ST.01
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Royal Oak in 2022, Audemars Piguet made several launches throughout the year and why not! Not many watches can claim to be an icon for over half a century. The Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon Extra Thin model was one of the most eye-catching releases in steel, featuring a regal-looking plum dial with the signature Petite Tapisserie pattern. The case size shrinks by 2mm, and the piece embodies APâs first-ever self-winding flying tourbillon in 37mm. Itâs worth every pound.
6. Jules Audemars Extra-Thin, Ref: 15180OR.00.A002CR.01
Looking for a quintessential, no-frills dress piece? This understated pink gold Audemars Piguet, released in 2014, is a true gem. Itâs a highly regarded dress watch known for its classic design and slim profile. Featuring a 41mm rose gold case, a black dial, and a matching leather strap, this model is powered by the ultra-thin Calibre 2120, visible through the sapphire case back. It epitomises elegant aesthetics and comfortable wear.
7. Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar, Ref: 25554BA
During the peak of the Quartz Revolution in the early 1980s, few high-end Swiss brands demonstrated their defiance by releasing mechanical timepieces that were way more luxurious and technically advanced than any of their earlier releases. The AP 25554BA was one such example. The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar made its first appearance with a moon phase in this model, available in steel, yellow gold, and platinum. Out of the 279 units released across all metals, 223 were delivered in yellow gold, making it a sought-after piece.
8. Royal Oak Selfwinding Ref. 15500ST
For those seeking a more contemporary interpretation, the Royal Oak 15500ST brings the collection firmly into the modern era. With a 41mm case size and signature octagonal bezel, the watch offers an enhanced presence on the wrist, while the Calibre 4302 provides superior performance. The Grande Tapisserie dial has luminescent markers highlighting how thoughtfully AP has curated the piece for todayâs collectors. This modern take on the classic Royal Oak is versatile, suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
9. Royal Oak Black Ceramic Perpetual Calendar, Ref: 26579CE.OO.1225CE.01
This all-black ceramic perpetual calendar version, made its debut in 2017, is far lighter than its stainless steel siblings and also virtually scratchproof. This Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar features date, day, month, astronomical moon and week of the year. The leap year indication is also incorporated by the brand on the slate grey âGrande Tapisserieâ dial. APâs attention to detail on this all-black ceramic Royal Oak is unmatched in terms of aesthetics and comfort.
10. Minute repeater with jump hour, Ref. 26356PT.00.D028CR
This minute repeater with a jumping hour complication, housed in a 43mm platinum case, doesnât enjoy the attention as certain Royal Oaks get, but it definitely should. The skeletonised beauty from the Jules Audemars collection features an openwork design, revealing the intricate Calibre 2907 movement. This stunningly finished hand-wound movement is responsible for both the jumping hour and minute repeater functions. Itâs a testament to APâs expertise in haute horlogerie, appealing to collectors who appreciate mechanical complexity.
11. Code 11.59 âStarwheelâ, Ref: 15212NB.OO.A002KB.01-AB
The Code 11.59 âStarwheelâ offers a modern reinterpretation of the wandering hours tradition with an ultra-contemporary dual-layer timepiece that combines black ceramic with 18ct white gold. At 41mm, it has a blue aventurine dial, reminiscent of the night sky. The constellation imagery that surrounds the edge of the dial face provides the ideal stage for the trio of black PVD-coated aluminum wandering hour discs. These wandering discs replace the indices and hands present on most watches. Can it get any more avant-garde?
12. Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon âCompanionâ, Ref: 26656TI.GG.D019VE.01
Another remarkable piece from the Concept collection, this Audemars Piguet timepiece was produced in collaboration with KAWS, the renowned New York-based artist. Made from titanium, the watch features a peripheral time display that highlights KAWSâ 3D âCompanion, and its hands appear to press against the skeleton dialâs crystal, making it a work of art. At the very core of the Companionâs chest rests the tourbillon, showcasing the timepieceâs core mechanism. This 250-piece limited edition creation pays tribute to KAWSâ dissected series and is highly collectable.
13. Royal Oak Concept Black Panther, reference 26620IO.OO.D077CA.01
This time, Audemars Piguet collaborated with the Marvel superhero franchise to create something that excited both Marvel enthusiasts and watch enthusiasts. Inspired by the âBlack Pantherâ universe, this Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon is crafted in titanium and features a futuristic dial that boasts a spectacular hand-painted 3D Black Panther positioned over the tourbillon at 6 oâclock. The purple rubber strap and the matching inner bezel mimic the heroâs colours. Limited to only 250 pieces, it is a rare collectorâs piece.
14. Code 11.59 Flying Tourbillon with Black Onyx Dial, Ref: 26396NB.OO.D002KB.01
Audemars Piguet describes the Code 11.59 as sophisticated by nature and unconventional by design, and upon examining this watch, we can see that itâs a pretty accurate description. Thanks to the black onyx dial, rose gold numerals, and a tourbillon at 6 oâclock, weâre a fan of this model. Designed in a stylised two-tone case, interweaving black ceramic with 18ct white gold, this Code 11.59 model is in its most elegant, refined, and discreet attire.
15. Royal Oak Tantalum & Rose Gold, Ref: 14470TR.O.0902TR.01
The key highlight of this model is the use of tantalum, a rare metal due to its high melting point and hardness, which is rarely used in watchmaking. According to reports, Audemars Piguet first produced a tantalum watch at the request of King Juan Carlos of Spain, who wanted a Royal Oak made from a less shiny and stealthier material for hunting. The model is made of warm 18ct rose gold and strikes a perfect balance with its grey dial and pink gold accents. Powered by the self-winding Calibre 2150, this is a rare find.
16. Jules Audemars Grande Complication Ref: 25866OR.OO.D002CR.02
The Jules Audemars Grande Complication charms the avid enthusiasts. Released in 1995, it features a number of complications, including a moon phase indicator, perpetual calendar, and minute repeater. The model looks classy in a yellow gold case and features yellow gold elements on the dial, which are nicely accentuated against the white dial. The dial consists of four sub-dials in the 3-6-9-12 oâclock positions. The Grande Complication catalogue is APâs playground, showcasing absolute horological mastery.
17. Vintage Chronograph
Does it look unusual in comparison to the usual minute repeaters from AP? Although the brand was an early pioneer of minute repeaters and now boasts an advanced research department, the chimes from AP were rather muted in the 20th century. It is said that Audemars Piguet released fewer than ten minute-repeaters before the mechanical revival in the 1990s, making this platinum model from 1960 extremely rare and collectable. Adding to its exclusivity are the diamond hour markers and the incredible platinum bracelet.
18. Platinum Minute Repeater, Ref: 5538
Does it look unusual in comparison to the usual minute repeaters from AP? Although the brand was an early pioneer of minute repeaters and now boasts an advanced research department, the chimes from AP were rather muted in the 20th century. It is said that Audemars Piguet released fewer than ten minute-repeaters before the mechanical revival in the 1990s, making this platinum model from 1960 extremely rare and collectable. Adding to its exclusivity are the diamond hour markers and the incredible platinum bracelet.
19. Royal Oak âCamouflageâ, Ref: 15514BC.YY.1284BC.02
Launched in 2024, the Royal Oak âCamouflageâ with its jewel-festooned design is a sheer contradiction in terms. Paved with no less than 861 baguette-cut sapphires, smoky quartz and tsavorites, with even the crown adorned with gems, this 41mm white gold Royal Oak creates a homogeneous camouflage pattern. Even the gold bracelet is adorned with precious gemstones. The Calibre 4309 can be admired through the sapphire case back, providing a 70-hour power reserve, ideal for contemporary lifestyles.
20. Edward Piguet, Ref: 25947OR
Getting its name from co-founder Edward-Auguste Piguet, this is the kind of watch that strikes the mind when you think of Audemars Piguet. Moreover, if the luxury sports watch revolution had never happened in the first place, this is the type of watch weâd associate AP with. Not many high-end watchmakers can craft skeletonised tourbillons in pink gold, and rectangular timepieces from the brand are another rarity. When the model was introduced around 2008, it was another trendsetter.
21. Millenary Frosted Gold, Ref: 77266BC.GG.A326CR.01
An unconventional case, finish, and way of reading the time define the Audemars Piguet Millenary Frosted Gold Philosophique. The 39.5mm white gold oval case mixes polish and frosted finishing techniques with an elegant Mother-of-Pearl dial, creating a stunning interplay of textures that highlights APâs mastery in decorative arts. Itâs fascinating how the single hand glides around the dial, without being fixed in the dial centre as convention would dictate. Moreover, the case and bracelet are hammered to create a frosty surface, as if it was taken out of the freezer. Ingenious, we say!
22. Royal Oak Offshore Rubens Barrichello II, Ref: 26078IO.OO.D001VS.01
This Royal Oak Offshore model was released in honour of the former Brazilian Formula 1 race car driver Rubens Barrichello II. Three editions were released in titanium with 1000 pieces produced. The case measures 42mm and features a design inspired by F1, with a wheel-shaped case back and a bezel that could easily be mistaken for a ventilated brake disc. The dial is open-worked, and the specially designed Mega Tapisserie is a tribute to its racing heritage. As a nod to Barrichelloâs racing career, the Barrichello II replaces traditional octagonal bezel screws with wheel nut-inspired screws.
23. Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon GMT, Ref: 26589IO.OO.D056CA.01
APâs wildest travel watch gets an earthy makeover with this model. Completed with a flying tourbillon surrounded by green ceramic and pink gold accents, the watch features a 44mm sandblasted titanium case. It is fitted with sapphire crystals on both the front and back to showcase the remarkable movement. Green CVD-coloured inserts highlight the black architectural movement, which matches the bezel. The skeletonised dial features a GMT display at 3 oâclock and a flying tourbillon at 9 oâclock. With its green rubber strap, the watch achieves a seamless look.
24. First Self-Winding Tourbillon, Ref: 25643BA
Acclaimed as the worldâs first automatic tourbillon, this AP model also held the title of the thinnest automatic tourbillon for many years. At 11 oâclock on the sun-ray dial, you can see the tourbillon housed in a titanium cage. AP uses the watchâs case back as the mainplate for the Calibre 2870 movement, ensuring the watch is thin. It also has the crown integrated into its case back, rather than on the side, which adds to its sleek aesthetic. This phenomenal timepiece was designed by female designer Jaqueline Dimier.
25. Royal Oak Selfwinding, Ref: 15550BA.OO.1356BA.01
Based at 37mm, this Royal Oak Selfwinding model is the ideal size for the modern man who doesnât want a chunky piece on his wrist. The turquoise blue dial is the main talking point, set within an 18ct yellow gold case. AP has produced the turquoise dial from the shores of Mexico, and therefore, every dial is unique due to the varying texture of the stone. With such a unique dial, the watch is already one of a kind!
Conclusion
Acquiring an Audemars Piguet is more than a purchase; itâs an investment in horological excellence. Each model here is a unique interpretation of APâs innovative spirit, from the artistic Millenary to the groundbreaking Royal Oak series.
Ultimately, the AP watch you choose depends on your personal style, practical needs and collecting goals. However, rest assured that whether youâre a seasoned collector or a novice, thereâs an Audemars Piguet that speaks to every kind of enthusiast out there. So, which of these would you want ticking on your wrist?
