Zitat:
I have a Love/Hate Relationship with @audemarspiguet
Growing up I remember always wanting a Royal Oak, a timeless piece that was so versatile and could be worn in any occasion.
About 3 years I had purchased 2 woman’s Royal Oaks from an authorised retailer. Both watches were in precious metals and with diamonds- they were not considered to be “Hot models”
Over the last few years AP has significantly reduced their retail and distribution network, as a result my AD no longer has AP.
I have never managed to purchase a men’s Royal Oak through their official retail network.
I had visited multiple AP houses and retailers globally to explain to them my current situation and potentially see what the best course of action would be to finally add a piece to my collection.
My experiences at AP houses were well (No sugar coating here) frustrating and disrespectful.
I had gone to AP house london - (without an appointment) just to have a chat a potentially speak to a sales assistant, I was met with a very stern face at reception saying I don’t have an appointment and I’m not allowed inside. I asked could I make an appointment… His response was “I’m sorry but there’s a 7 week waiting list for appointments and we’re not taking any more appointments at this moment.” I was gobsmacked and bewildered by who was giving these instructions to the receptionist.
A few weeks ago I was in Zurich and decided to pass by AP house Zürich, I had turned up with intention was to see if they had a free slot to speak with someone during my trip. I mentioned to sales associate I am already a Client with AP and have 2 womens watches under my account, however unfortunately my AD no longer has AP and would like to have a continued relationship with the brand.
This time I was confronted with a rather confusing statement “we don’t have any appointments for the next couple of weeks, however we can’t see you until we make sure you fit our brand.“ i then asked “what does it mean to fit your brand?” And she replied “we need to know if we want you as our client.”
I was truly perplexed as I am already a client of AP.
The sales assistants have a been trained to be very kurt and borderline rude to clients. During neither interaction did they take the time even offer me a seat or water. The so called luxury experiences are far from anything consider to be luxury.
There’s one thing trying to be exclusive and there’s another thing biting the hands that feed you, as it really makes you question if it’s worth spending your hard earned money with brands that don’t appreciate you as a client.
Audemars Piguet still make phenomenal watches but they need to learn something about customer service.
:dr: