6 things we love about the new AP House Singapore

Those of us with fond memories of Raffles Hotel’s iconic Bar & Billiard Room will be glad to know that Audemars Piguet has done it the utmost justice in its transformation into AP House Singapore. A long-awaited AP House for local horology aficionados, it is the 22nd such venue globally and the brand’s Southeast Asian flagship.

Joining the ranks of a diverse number of cosmopolitan cities where every AP House is a fusion of each location’s unique character with Audemars Piguet’s Swiss heritage and spirit of modernity, the Lion City’s edition is in a class of its own.

Stefanie Ng, CEO of Audemars Piguet Southeast Asia, explains, “Singapore boasts a vibrant and passionate community of watch lovers, and we are thrilled to extend a warm welcome at our new AP House. This space reflects our commitment to innovation and craftsmanship while celebrating the diverse spirit of Singapore.”

Here are six standout features that will make horology enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and anyone seeking an exceptional experience, swoon.

1. Set in Singapore’s grand dame

Raffles Hotel, founded in 1887, is what hospitality legends are made of. Apart from hosting royalty, celebrities, literary luminaries, and dignitaries, its Bar and Billiard Room, established in 1896, is one of the most storied landmarks in our history.

Despite its transformation into a contemporary AP House, the venue has retained its historic charm and refined ambience — with all its well-loved heritage architectural elements, such as the terraces, tall windows, and high arched ceilings, preserved.

2. Showcase of horological heritage

From the moment guests enter the 1,000sqm space, they are immersed in Audemars Piguet’s horological mastery. Near the entrance are three Watch Totems displaying an evolving selection of heritage pieces, ranging from early pocket watches to modern masterpieces, such as a single-piece commissioned Merlion-themed gold and diamond watch.

Taking pride of place in the heart of the house is a bright and airy atrium, which showcases a Watch Wall offering a glimpse of the current collection. Dedicated Client Consultants are on hand to guide visitors through these exceptional timepieces, ensuring a personalised and immersive experience.

3. Home away from home

Designed to feel like a sophisticated yet welcoming retreat, the AP House concept prioritises comfort and human connection with its expansiveness, natural light, and warm materials.

A magnificent marble bar, helmed by staff from Native bar at Amoy Street, sits opposite the Watch Wall, with a 5m long communal dining table in-between. Tucked behind the wall is a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, which serves the needs of private functions, which can range from cocktail appreciation to Swiss wine dinners.

Flanking this central space on one side is an elegant sitting lounge, while one the other is is a billiard area that doesn’t just honour AP House’s heritage location, but hides a surprise. Depicted on a mosaic carpet under a cream-and-wood billiard table is a tiger, in honour of the circus creature that was last shot in Singapore, in 1902, in a storage area under this very building, which was elevated back then.

4. Nature-inspired design

Drawing inspiration from Le Brassus, the home of Audemars Piguet, and Singapore’s Garden City ethos, the AP House’s interiors seamlessly integrate natural elements.

Locally sourced Rain Tree wood features prominently in the design that includes a stylised coffeetable, the centrepiece dining table, and a striking feature wall within an experiential corridor in the centre of the venue. In this walkway, towering Norfolk Pine trees and a running river rendered digitally evoke the spruce forests of Switzerland’s Jura Mountains, while muted greens and gold accents enhance the serene atmosphere.

5. The world’s first AP Cafe

Also a winner for AP House Singapore is the watchmaker’s first-ever AP Cafe, a public space that offers a curated menu blending Swiss culinary traditions with Singaporean flavours. Signature dishes reimagine classics with local twists, with must-try items such as Chicken Rice Club Sandwich with garlic chilli sauce on the side, small medallions of gold-leafed Golden Roesti, and of course, a vanilla sponge Swiss Roll served with honeycomb and honey ice-cream.

With its inviting atmosphere and a kitchen run by Burnt Ends, the AP Cafe has proved to be a popular addition to Raffles Singapore. Apart from Audemar Piguet collectors in-the-know and hotel guests, some wandering tourists have already had the good fortune of experiencing this venue’s wonderful fusion cuisine and cocktails, such as the Swiss Sling.

6. Spaces celebrating art and culture

Beyond horology and gastronomy, AP House Singapore has also incorporated contemporary art and music into its offerings. On the far end of the venue are three beautifully decorated, sun-lit private salons.

The Night Room features a wall painting of stars glowing over a spruce forest at night, while the Day Room’s painting portrays a day scene overlooking a round dining table. The last room is dedicated to music, boasting a high-fidelity audio system and curated vinyl records that mirror the precision and artistry of watchmaking.

A rotating exhibition space in the basement is also set to showcase immersive displays that highlight craftsmanship and innovation across disciplines.