Buying, Selling, & Collecting: The Full Story Of Audemars Piguet's 'John Shaeffer,' A Neo-Vintage Classic
Audemars Piguet's "John Shaeffer" watch celebrates its 30th anniversary, highlighting its significance in the brand's heritage and the neo-vintage market. Originally produced in the early 1900s, the watch faced a long path to recognition, characterized by a series of modifications and a unique narrative involving its American industrialist owner. Despite initial obscurity and a common misspelling of its name, the watch has garnered attention for its intricate design and historical importance, particularly its minute repeater feature. The revival of the "John Shaeffer" in the 1990s coincided with a resurgence in complicated watchmaking, driven by technological advancements and a desire to produce smaller, intricate timepieces. The collection, though short-lived, showcased a variety of designs, including minute repeaters and jump hour watches, and produced approximately 670 pieces, making them quite rare in the market. As collectors increasingly recognize the charm and history of the Shaeffer models, their value has steadily risen, especially for those with unique features, indicating a growing appreciation in the watch community.
