Audemars Piguet

AlexSunrise
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The Presidential Connection

Hello, fellow friends and AP aficionados.

Here's a little story I would like to share with you all on how the Royal Oak became a cultural icon in Mexico.

Back in 1976, when the Royal Oak had already taken the watch world by storm, a Mexican entrepreneur gifted one to then President Jose Lopez Portillo, who immediately fell in love with it. Rumor has it, that the President complemented the business man on his AP, and that a couple of weeks later, this said business man gifted one to the President.

After the President was given this gift, he proceeded to use his Royal Oak on a fairly regular basis, and as such, sparking a trend among fellow politics and businessmen for wearing watches manufactured by AP that has endured to the present day.

In the end, AP and Mexico have had an association for well over 35 years (maybe even more), not only in the business sense, but also in social causes, as the Audemars Piguet foundation has benefited charities in the country, as well as in cultural pursuits, due to the fact that back in 2009/2010, just before the launch of the ROO Pride of Mexico, AP invited several known artists to express through their work, their interpretations of Mexico in time.

Even famed AP designer Octavio Garcia has Mexican roots.

Pic taken from www.

In this particular picture you can see what appears to be the flat bezel and case of the Royal Oak.

(Photo by corbis images)

During this visit of Fidel Castro to Mexico, President JLP appears to be wearing a Rolex Submariner, which will be even more noticeable in the following photograph.

(Pic from www)

To conmemorate the 200th anniversary of the Mexican Independence, and the 100th anniversary of the Revolution, AP launched three LE ROO's which helped even more to strengthen the bond between country, enthusiasts, and brand.

Pic by DRMW.

Isn't it interesting how the last two generations have carried the interest and passion for AP, particularly the Royal Oak?

I guess that when you grow up being exposed to certain objects and images, it is only a matter of time before you put your grain of sand to perpetuate the relationship and tradition.

Has there been a similar phenomenon in your country?

Thanks for reading,

Alejandro

Ps. I apologize for not showing a clear photograph of the former late President wearing his AP, but all my efforts in finding one proved unsuccessful.