Le Brassus, Switzerland – Reported by Elite Traveler, the Private Jet Lifestyle Magazine – On July 8, 2010, the eve of the traditional Swiss watch industry vacation, legendary artist, trumpeter, composer and producer Quincy Jones made a special visit to the Manufacture Audemars Piguet in Le Brassus, Switzerland to explore the watch-making workshop, talk about “Project Q,” and work on developing ideas for charity.
While taking a workshop tour, Jones admired the work of the Audemars Piguet watch-making artisans, praising their ability to “impress [him] by their precision and expertise they display in shaping these timeless gems.” He declared that they are “great creative talents and passionately dedicated artists.”
Jones’ admiration and respect for the Swiss manufacture, however, did not grow over night. The producer and the manufacture have had close ties for several years, even joining forces to develop “Project Q,” an organization aimed at raising political and public awareness of young people’s need for self-expression and the means that must be provided to ensure they fulfill their potential. In fact, Audemars Piguet honors prominent public figures or social organizations that have played a central role on behalf of children with an international award called the “Q Prize.”
Further indicative of the strong ties between Jones and AP is the Millenary Quincy Jones watch. The striking tribute timepiece was released in January and features contemporary lines matched with a sophisticated design meant to echo the notes on the keyboard of a piano, an instrument dear to the artist’s heart. Jones will donate proceeds from this watch to raising funds for his Quincy Jones Foundation, an organization committed to helping children by improving their well-being, health and dignity.
The respect Jones has for Audemars Piguet is mutual, as evidenced by CEO Philippe Merk’s reflection on the highly emotional visit by the artist, describing Quincy Jones as an “amazing artist and daring entrepreneur, but above all a man with a big heart.” Merk went on to say “one cannot help but admir[e] his career, especially considering the difficulties he encountered during his childhood. He gives us an important life lesson and naturally inspires profound respect.”
A relationship based on know-how, artistic passion and empathy, Jones’ visit to Audemars Piguet helped resurface these vales and further strengthen ties between the music legend and famous Swiss watch manufacturer.
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Visit www.audemarspiguet.com.
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