In today’s urban fashion landscape, the demand for luxury and individuality has skyrocketed. From high-end sneakers to designer bags, streetwear lovers are all about standing out. But nothing screams status and swag quite like an ice-out Audemars Piguet (AP) watch. While factory-set diamond APs are limited and priced for the ultra-elite, the aftermarket ice-out AP has become the go-to choice for style-conscious individuals looking to blend luxury with street style.
So, what exactly are aftermarket iced-out AP watches, and why are they booming in urban fashion? Let’s dive into the trend, its cultural roots, the pros and cons, and what it really says when you rock one.
What Is an Aftermarket Ice-Out AP?
An aftermarket ice-out AP is a genuine Audemars Piguet watch that has been customized with diamonds by a third-party jeweler—not by the brand itself. These modifications include adding diamonds to the bezel, bracelet, case, and sometimes even the dial. Unlike factory-set diamond APs that are limited in production and come at a sky-high price, aftermarket customizations are:
More accessible
Highly customizable
Tailored to personal taste
While AP purists may raise an eyebrow, the aftermarket scene has made this exclusive luxury more available to people who want the AP name and a fully iced-out aesthetic.
How Urban Fashion Embraced Iced-Out APs
Urban fashion has always celebrated self-expression, flash, and the pursuit of status. From the bling era of early 2000s hip-hop to the streetwear revolution of the 2010s, jewelry has remained a key fashion pillar. As AP watches gained popularity among rappers, influencers, and athletes, the aftermarket custom scene exploded to meet demand.
Wearing an iced-out AP isn't just about keeping time—it's about making a statement. In cities like New York, Los Angeles, London, and Atlanta, you’ll spot iced-out APs in clubs, fashion events, music videos, and even Instagram stories. It's a symbol of hustle, success, and individuality.
Influencers & Celebrities Leading the Trend
The rise of aftermarket APs in urban culture wouldn’t be what it is without celebrity endorsement. Some of the biggest names in entertainment have popularized these iced-out creations:
Lil Baby – Frequently shows off his fully iced Royal Oak custom jobs.
Drake – Owns both factory and aftermarket APs, always pushing boundaries in watch fashion.
Meek Mill & Moneybagg Yo – Proudly rock custom APs with unique diamond patterns and settings.
YouTubers & TikTokers – Emerging influencers are now joining the ranks, customizing APs to create their brand of luxury content.
With platforms like Instagram and TikTok putting visual fashion front and center, an iced AP has become a flex that speaks volumes.
Why Aftermarket Iced-Out APs Are So Popular
1. Affordability (Compared to Factory)
A factory-set iced AP can cost $200,000 or more. By contrast, an aftermarket ice-out AP may run $60,000–$100,000, depending on the watch model and diamond quality.
2. Customization
From baguette diamonds to colored gems, you can design your watch to suit your exact vibe—something you can’t do with factory models.
3. Instant Status Symbol
In streetwear and hip-hop culture, appearance matters. A fully iced AP is one of the most visible ways to show you’ve “made it.”
4. Availability
Factory diamond APs are extremely limited and difficult to buy even if you have the money. Aftermarket versions are more accessible and available on-demand.
The Craftsmanship Factor
Not all aftermarket jobs are created equal. The difference lies in the quality of diamonds, setting technique, and how well the customization preserves the original AP structure.
Reputable jewelers—like Johnny Dang, Avianne & Co., or Icebox—have built their reputations on high-end custom work. A poorly iced AP can ruin the integrity and function of the watch, while a skilled jeweler can create a masterpiece that rivals factory settings.
Risks and Considerations
While the trend is booming, buyers should be aware of the downsides to aftermarket iced-out watches:
❌ Voided Warranty – Modifying an AP voids the original manufacturer warranty.
❌ Lower Resale Value – Collectors prefer untouched models. An iced AP may not hold value like a Plain Jane.
❌ Authentication Issues – Some resale platforms or auction houses don’t accept aftermarket-modified watches.
❌ Fake Parts Risk – Low-end customizers may use fake or mixed parts, compromising authenticity.
To avoid these issues, always buy from a trusted jeweler with a track record and certifications.
The Streetwear Effect
As streetwear and luxury continue to merge, iced-out APs have become the bridge between both worlds. They sit at the intersection of:
Designer fashion (think: Balenciaga, Off-White, and Amiri)
Sneaker culture
Hip-hop jewelry aesthetics
Wealth flexing on social media
Whether it's paired with a $1,000 hoodie or a full designer suit, the iced-out AP continues to adapt, making it a timeless accessory in an ever-evolving fashion scene.
2025 Trends: What’s Next?
Looking ahead, here’s where the trend is going:
Colored Stones – Expect to see more rubies, sapphires, and colored diamonds entering the custom AP scene.
Skeleton Modifications – Jewels integrated with see-through AP mechanisms for a futuristic bling style.
Personal Logos – More wearers are adding their initials, brand logos, or icons to the dial or caseback.
Younger Buyers – Gen Z influencers and entrepreneurs are now entering the AP game, demanding fresh custom options.
Conclusion: A Watch That Tells More Than Time
Aftermarket ice-out AP watches are more than just luxury items—they’re symbols of ambition, creativity, and urban style. While they may not appeal to traditionalists, they speak directly to a generation that’s rewriting the rules of fashion and wealth.
In the world of flex culture, social media, and self-made success, rocking a custom iced AP tells the world: “I made it on my terms.”