On this video, Eric reviews the 42-mm stainless steel version of the AP Diver, which comes with a rubber strap.
The Audemars Piguet Diver is a very versatile luxury watch that can be worn with any non-formal attire. It’s a sports watch that is perfect for boating or another leisure occasion.
Is the AP Diver an Extreme Diver’s Watch?
Even though the AP ROO Diver is technically a diving watch, Eric wouldn’t put it at the same level as an extreme [more traditional] diving timepiece like the Rolex Sea-Dweller. Unlike the Sea-Dweller, the watch does not have a helium escape valve. Instead, it has an offset crown on the left hand side that you need to unscrew in order to actuate the inner bezel before you can rotate it. This is a similar function to the Submariner, with the difference that the Sub’s bezel is external, so it can be rotated without unscrewing the crown; something that can be done underwater without damaging the watch. Unscrewing the offset crown underwater on the AP Diver would flood and damage the watch.
Because of this limitation, Eric wouldn’t recommend the watch to hardcore divers. Instead, he recommends it if you want to buy an amazing looking watch that’s made for the water in order to sport it on the boat, use for casual diving, or strap on while participating in water activities.
A Great Introduction to Audemars Piguet Watches
The Audemars Piguet brand of watches is one that’s synonymous with high end, ultra luxury. As a result, quite a few of the company’s pieces are out of the reach of many luxury watch collectors on a budget. However, given that the Diver is one of the more “basic” models of the AP line, its relatively lower price might make it a good introductory watch for someone wishing to venture into the AP brand and the ROO models.
Eric mentions this on the video when he says,
“So if you’re planning on purchasing an entry level Royal Oak Offshore, the Diver is one you may want to consider.”
Other AP Diver Models
Eric also mentions that AP Divers are not limited to the stainless steel model only. There’s also a white ceramic version and one boutique edition in rose gold. These two additional models are a lot more difficult to find than the stainless steel version of the Diver, but very exquisite nevertheless.
Price of the AP Diver
In general, you can find a pre-owned stainless steel Diver anywhere from $12,500 to $13,500 (price circa August 2015 when the video was released), depending on the condition of the watch, year, whether it comes with box and papers, etc.
In conclusion… If you are thinking of getting your first watch from Audemars Piguet, the AP Diver might be a great choice. It is versatile, comfortable and elegant with a classic AP look. It is a luxury watch that will definitely add quite a bit of weight to your Watch Game!
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