The Vallée de Joux is the geographical place where Audemars Piguet’s journey begins, the space where the passing of time is accompanied by the ticking of the hands of watches with complicated mechanisms and incredible designs. It all began in 1875, in a landscape surrounded by unspoilt and majestic nature, clear skies merging with cold alpine lakes, crisp nights and trees telling the passage of time… All this remains to this day the primary source of inspiration for AP’s watchmakers. Attention to detail is precisely the research that over time has begun to make each watch unmistakable and unique, making it a true masterpiece. The spirit of enterprise is what also allowed the Maison to choose the historic Milanese space of the former Garage Traversi to create their new AP House.
“Seven years after the birth of the first AP House, we continue to redefine the idea of hospitality, offering a space where people can meet, share their passions and immerse themselves in our long watchmaking tradition, all in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.”
Via Bagutta is historically known as the home of many great artists and intellectuals of past centuries, including Carlo Goldoni and Alessandro Manzoni. The space of the former Garage Traversi, on the other hand, is the first example of a multi-storey car park built in the city, an innovation at the time especially for the architectural novelty of its incredible car lift system. It is here that one recognises the common thread between the inventiveness of yesteryear and the ongoing exploration of Audermars Piguet’s master craftsmen. The style of the building is visibly rationalist, the facades are curved, and the windows all have a steel frame. The minimalist design is also reflected in the new layout conceived in collaboration with Lissoni & Partners, while maintaining the heritage and modernity of a structure so characteristic for the city of Milan. The Maison’s choice also falls on such a unique space for its strong connection with the artistic and cultural aspect, its proximity to the world of art, and its desire to broaden its horizons, nurture its creativity and encourage encounters between people and generations. The strong sense of rigour and simplicity is the same that can be recognised in the design of AP’s unique pieces. The attention to detail, the consistency of research, the elegance of materials and the harmony of colours. Everything pays tribute to the origins and heritage of the Maison, while winking at the frenetic modernity of the city of Milan. Seek beyond, is Audemars Piguet’s invitation.
