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ToggleAs with any valuable brand, counterfeiters frequently target Audemars Piguet watches. It’s crucial for potential buyers and collectors to distinguish between a genuine Audemars Piguet and a fake.
This article provides a detailed guide on how to verify the authenticity of an Audemars Piguet watch, ensuring your investment is genuine.
Key Features of Authentic Audemars Piguet Watches
When verifying the authenticity of an Audemars Piguet watch, focusing on several key features can guide you in identifying a genuine piece. Each aspect is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and excellence.
Material Quality and Craftsmanship
Audemars Piguet’s commitment to using only the highest quality materials is evident in every watch they produce. The metals are rich and substantial, whether it be 18-carat gold, polished platinum, or corrosion-resistant stainless steel. The craftsmanship is equally meticulous, with every edge and surface finished to a high standard. The screws are uniform and perfectly aligned, and the case back, bezel, and bracelet are seamlessly integrated.

Dial Details
The dial is one of the most distinctive features of an Audemars Piguet, especially in models like the Royal Oak, where the “Tapisserie” pattern is iconic. This pattern should be precise, with clear, sharply defined squares or lozenges, depending on the specific model. The printing of the logo, indices, and other text on the dial should be flawless, with no smudging or misalignment.
Movement
The movement of an authentic Audemars Piguet is engineered in-house, showcasing the brand’s pioneering spirit in watchmaking. The movement is often visible through a clear sapphire caseback, allowing the intricate mechanics to be admired. The engravings on the movement components, such as the brand name and calibre number, are crisp and clear. Each watch contains specific movements that are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior.
Serial and Model Numbers
Each Audemars Piguet watch carries unique serial and model numbers, deeply engraved into the metal. These are not merely printed but are etched with precision that makes them difficult to forge. These numbers can be cross-referenced with the company’s records to verify the watch’s provenance and authenticity.
⌚️ Learn more about Audemars Piguet serial numbers here.
How to Authenticate Your Audemars Piguet
To ensure the Audemars Piguet watch you intend to purchase or verify is genuine, follow these practical steps:
Step 1: Purchase from Reputable Dealers
The safest route to acquiring an authentic Audemars Piguet is to purchase from an authorised dealer or directly from the brand’s boutiques. These sources provide valid paperwork, authenticity certificates, and a full warranty. Buying from reputable dealers eliminates many risks associated with counterfeit watches.
Step 2: Examine the Watch Thoroughly
Carefully inspect the watch for the features outlined above. Pay close attention to the quality of the materials and the finishing of every component. Check the alignment of the screws and the clarity of the dial details. A magnifying glass can be helpful in inspecting the fine details that counterfeiters often overlook.
Step 3: Check the Weight
Genuine Audemars Piguet watches have a heft that reflects the solid construction and quality materials used. Counterfeit watches often feel lighter because they are made with inferior materials. The weight of the watch can be a significant indicator of its authenticity.
Step 4: Listen to the Movement
Hold the watch close to your ear. The movement of a genuine Audemars Piguet should be smooth and even, with no erratic ticking. High-quality mechanical movements produce a distinct, consistent sound that differs markedly from the cheaper movements found in fake watches.
Step 5: Verify the Serial Number
Finally, take the serial number found on the case back or other designated place and contact Audemars Piguet’s customer service to verify it. They can confirm whether the watch is registered and authentic. This step is crucial for secondary market purchases.

Don’t Get Caught Out
Owning an Audemars Piguet is not just about possessing a timepiece; it’s about embracing a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation. Ensuring the authenticity of your Audemars Piguet is crucial, not just for the value of the watch, but for the appreciation of the art and history it represents. Always approach the buying process with diligence and respect for the craftsmanship that goes into each watch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I suspect my Audemars Piguet is a counterfeit?
If you suspect that your Audemars Piguet watch is counterfeit, contact Audemars Piguet’s customer service immediately. They can guide you through the process of authenticating the watch. For additional assurance, consider having the watch examined by a professional watchmaker or an authentication expert.
Can the serial number on an Audemars Piguet be duplicated?
While it is technically possible for counterfeiters to duplicate a serial number, each genuine Audemars Piguet watch has a unique serial number that can be verified with the company’s records. Always check the serial number with Audemars Piguet directly or through an authorised dealer to ensure authenticity.
How often should I service my Audemars Piguet watch?
Audemars Piguet recommends servicing your watch approximately every five years. Regular servicing ensures the watch continues to operate correctly and maintains its value. Servicing includes cleaning, lubricating, and replacing worn parts, conducted by certified professionals to ensure optimal performance.
What is the most iconic Audemars Piguet model to look out for?
The most iconic model from Audemars Piguet is the Royal Oak. Designed by Gérald Genta in 1972, it features a distinctive octagonal bezel secured by eight visible hexagonal screws, an integrated bracelet, and the “Tapisserie” pattern on its dial. It’s celebrated for revolutionising the luxury watch industry and remains highly sought after today.
⌚️ You might like this guide: AP Royal Oak Basics: History, Production & Specifications.