Advice on Audemars Piguet watches

[rolexloverwatchlover]

Hi Guys,

Hope to understand this brand a bit more. Especially those with experience with it can share freely.

1. Do they hold value at all? I know not all models hold value but specifically does the Royal Oaks and Royal Oaks Offshore holds value after say 5-10 years or more. Comparing to Rolex sports watches, where do they stand?

2. I read in horror that the movement is rather unreliable. I cannot understand if its a premium product, why does it not have a certain standard of quality?

3. For Rolex, it is possible to do a servicing at a trusted 3rd party shop. Is it true that for AP, most only go back to AP for servicing?

If the above 3 are all negative answers, why does it still command a premium pricing?

Please respond kindly and don't flame as I am asking genuinely and for information sake.

Thanks.

[Oceanklassik]

Hi Guys,

Hope to understand this brand a bit more. Especially those with experience with it can share freely.

1. Do they hold value at all? I know not all models hold value but specifically does the Royal Oaks and Royal Oaks Offshore holds value after say 5-10 years or more. Comparing to Rolex sports watches, where do they stand?

2. I read in horror that the movement is rather unreliable. I cannot understand if its a premium product, why does it not have a certain standard of quality?

3. For Rolex, it is possible to do a servicing at a trusted 3rd party shop. Is it true that for AP, most only go back to AP for servicing?

If the above 3 are all negative answers, why does it still command a premium pricing?

Please respond kindly and don't flame as I am asking genuinely and for information sake.

Thanks.

Though I have not experienced owning and using an AP, I have heard several 'negative stories' about it's reliability in movements and designs (selective models). For a brief period, not too long ago, I was looking to buy an AP only to be put off by the hefty service and repair costs if I need to send the watch in to the agent. For example, a simple change of stainless steel bezel for a Royal Oak (if no servicing is required), can cost "a few thousand dollars" (quoted by a female staff in AP boutique). Despite me asking for the exact amount, she refused to furnish one.

Let's hear from people who have owned and used AP watches.