Audemars Piguet Code 11.59: A Comprehensive Analysis of AP's Contemporary Masterpiece
The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 represents a bold departure from the brand's iconic Royal Oak lineage, introducing a contemporary design philosophy that marries traditional Swiss watchmaking with modern aesthetics. Launched in recent years, this collection features innovative case architecture with octagonal midsections, ultra-thin bezels, and complex crystal constructions. Housing in-house manufactured movements including chronographs and perpetual calendars, the Code 11.59 targets collectors seeking AP's technical excellence in a more classic yet modern form factor, positioning itself as the brand's evolving aesthetic statement for the 21st century luxury watch market.
The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 made its debut at the 2019 SIHH watch fair, marking one of the most significant launches in contemporary haute horlogerie. This collection represents AP's strategic initiative to expand beyond the overwhelming success of the Royal Oak, demonstrating the brand's capability to innovate while maintaining its signature technical excellence. The name itself—Code 11.59—symbolizes the minute before new beginnings (11:59 PM leading to midnight), reflecting AP's forward-looking vision. With case diameters ranging from 38mm to 44mm and utilizing precious metals like white gold, rose gold, and platinum, the collection encompasses time-only models, chronographs, tourbillons, and grand complications, all featuring the distinctive double-curved sapphire crystal and complex case construction that required five years of development.
Code 11.59 Selfwinding
Advantages
- Superb legibility with ultra-thin bezel design
- In-house Calibre 4302 with 70-hour power reserve
- Exquisite finishing with alternating brushed and polished surfaces
- Comfortable 41mm case diameter suitable for most wrists
- Superior water resistance (30m) for dress watch category
Considerations
- Higher price point compared to entry-level luxury competitors
- Limited brand recognition outside Royal Oak models
- Some collectors find the design polarizing initially
- Lower water resistance than sports watch counterparts
Technical Specifications
- Movement
- Calibre 4302
- Power Reserve
- 70 hours
- Case Material
- 18-carat white or rose gold
- Case Diameter
- 41mm
- Water Resistance
- 30 meters
- Frequency
- 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
- Jewels
- 32
- Functions
- Hours, minutes, seconds, date
Code 11.59 Chronograph
Advantages
- Integrated column-wheel chronograph movement
- Vibrant lacquered dials with sunburst finishes
- Excellent chronograph pusher tactile feedback
- Flyback functionality for timing consecutive events
- Manufacture Calibre 4401 with vertical clutch system
Considerations
- Substantial thickness (12.6mm) may limit cuff clearance
- Premium pricing positions it against established chronograph icons
- Limited strap options compared to customizable competitors
- Heavier weight due to complex movement architecture
Technical Specifications
- Movement
- Calibre 4401
- Power Reserve
- 70 hours
- Case Material
- 18-carat white, rose, or yellow gold
- Case Diameter
- 41mm
- Water Resistance
- 30 meters
- Frequency
- 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
- Jewels
- 40
- Functions
- Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph, flyback, date
Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar
Advantages
- Ultra-thin perpetual calendar complication (2.89mm movement height)
- Moonphase display with exceptional astronomical accuracy
- Instantaneous date changes at midnight
- Grande Sonnerie capable variants available
- Exhibition caseback showcasing exquisite movement finishing
Considerations
- Significant price premium over simpler complications
- Complex setting procedures require manufacturer servicing
- Limited production numbers affecting availability
- Higher maintenance costs due to complication complexity
Technical Specifications
- Movement
- Calibre 5134
- Power Reserve
- 40 hours
- Case Material
- Platinum or 18-carat gold
- Case Diameter
- 41mm
- Water Resistance
- 20 meters
- Frequency
- 19,800 vph (2.75 Hz)
- Jewels
- 38
- Functions
- Hours, minutes, perpetual calendar, moonphase, day, date, month, leap year
Model Comparison
| Model | Price Range (USD) | Movement | Complications | Target Collector |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Code 11.59 Selfwinding | $28,000 - $32,000 | Calibre 4302 | Time + Date | Entry-level AP enthusiast seeking beyond Royal Oak |
| Code 11.59 Chronograph | $45,000 - $52,000 | Calibre 4401 | Chronograph + Date | Technical watch lover valuing integrated movements |
| Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar | $85,000 - $120,000 | Calibre 5134 | Perpetual Calendar + Moonphase | Serious collector investing in haute horlogerie complications |
Final Verdict
The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 collection successfully establishes AP's contemporary design language while maintaining the brand's uncompromising technical standards. While initially controversial among traditionalists, the collection has gained significant traction among collectors seeking sophisticated complications in wearable, modern cases. The innovative case construction, exceptional movement finishing, and thoughtful ergonomics justify its position in the upper echelon of luxury watchmaking. For collectors considering alternatives, the Code 11.59 offers distinct advantages in movement technology and contemporary aesthetics compared to more traditional competitors, though it commands premium pricing reflective of AP's manufacture pedigree. Ultimately, this collection represents a compelling proposition for those seeking both technical excellence and forward-thinking design in the ultra-luxury segment.
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