Unveiling the Timeless Legacy: A Deep Dive into Audemars Piguet's Historical Archives

The Enduring Legacy of Audemars Piguet: A Historical Overview

Since its establishment in 1875, Audemars Piguet has cultivated a rich and multifaceted history, much of which remains undiscovered. Sébastian Vivas, who has led the Audemars Piguet Museum since 2012, will elucidate how his dedicated Heritage team systematically organizes, enhances, and meticulously researches the brand's historical collections and archives. This ongoing exploration often yields surprising discoveries, necessitating thorough re-evaluation and deeper investigation.

Exploring the Genesis and Principles of Audemars Piguet's Heritage Department

Vivas's lecture will address pivotal questions surrounding the brand's heritage initiatives. Attendees will gain an understanding of the foundational concepts behind the Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet, the core principles guiding watch restoration, and the strategic considerations influencing the brand's acquisition decisions at auctions. Furthermore, he will shed light on the creative forces driving major anniversary exhibitions. This presentation will offer an exclusive look into the operations of a historically significant yet dynamically evolving brand, where the Heritage Department is responsible for notable publications such as "The Watch – Stories and Savoir Faire" and the AP Chronicles collectors' platform.

Meet Sébastian Vivas: A Custodian of Horological History

Sébastian Vivas earned his Master's in Modern History from the University of Neuchâtel in 2001. His subsequent work on the history of the Journal Suisse d'Horlogerie was recognized with the Fritz Kunz prize. From 2001 to 2012, Vivas served as Heritage Manager at Jaeger-LeCoultre, where he played a crucial role in numerous exhibitions, publications, and the establishment of the in-house Heritage Gallery museum, which opened in 2007.

Since 2012, as the Heritage & Museum Director at Audemars Piguet, Vivas has overseen the research, organization, preservation, and communication of the brand's rich heritage. He is supported by a diverse team comprising restoration watchmakers, historians, and archivists.

Among his significant achievements, Vivas directed "The Watch," a book published for the company's 150th anniversary. He also co-authored and directed "Audemars Piguet 20th Century Complicated Wristwatches," published in 2018, and launched the APChronicles web platform in 2022. Additionally, he managed the development of the Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet, which opened in 2020, and continues to curate its permanent and temporary exhibitions. His curatorial work includes prominent exhibitions like "Beyond Watchmaking" (Shanghai 2016, Tokyo 2019) and "The House of Wonders" (Shanghai 2025, Dubai 2025).

Secure Your Spot: Event Logistics and Ticket Information

Due to limited availability, tickets for this exclusive event will be released in phases. Gold Members can access tickets on February 24 at 3 PM ET, followed by Silver Members on February 25 at 3 PM ET, and Bronze Members on February 26 at 3 PM ET. The general public will have access to tickets starting February 27 at 3 PM ET. Each membership tier will receive a dedicated email containing a unique code, with a limit of two RSVPs per member.

Join the Conversation: Event Location and Accessibility

The HSNY lecture, scheduled for March 2, 2026, will be held at the General Society Library in Midtown Manhattan, located at 20 West 44th Street, New York, NY, 10036. Admission is free, but required tickets are essential for entry. Doors will open at 5:30 PM, with the lecture commencing at 6 PM. All HSNY lectures are free, open to the public, and recorded for later viewing. Recorded lectures are made available to HSNY members immediately, and to the general public after a two-month dela