We witness one of the most exciting moments in the history of Audemars Piguet. CODE 11.59 chronograph, which we reviewed in full detail, is a rare work that blends the brand's long-established heritage with modern watchmaking.
How much can you change a design that achieved perfection years ago, not just 3-5 years but decades ago? More importantly, why would you change it? For example, 911. I don’t have to tell you what I am talking about. The legendary Porsche 911 has already appeared in your mind. It is possible to find a similar situation for Audemars Piguet. Introduced to the world of watches in 1972, Royal Oak is known as a legend not only for AP but also among all watch models. The situation has become such that the name Royal Oak has overpowered the brand image.
AP engineers, whom I am not sure whether they are bothered by this or just wanted to spice up the things, introduced the CODE 11.59 series after a long research and development process. It is exciting but risky to introduce a brand new collection for a legend like Audemars Piguet. Just like the bands, that produce 911 manufacture a diesel-powered SUV. When it is about the automobile industry, it is possible to talk about serious profitability. However, are things the same in the world of luxury watchmaking?
I have to admit that when I first saw the series, I made very negative comments. CODE 11.59, which I brutally criticized previously, is a product of Audemars Piguet's "new" watchmaking concept. Now let's look at what is included in these innovations. The CODE 11.59 series, in which round and octagonal design details are used together, presents the familiar lines with a brand new interpretation. The theme of Audemars Piguet and octagonal geometry is an architecture we already remember from Royal Oak. In CODE, the lines that the years cannot wear are reinterpreted and an image obtained that does not forget the roots it is attached to, but succeeded to stand against the traditions. It is possible to see the same extraordinary design in the lugs as well. The lug connection points and skeleton form, which are in line with the thin bezel and the case back, appear as an immortal design that comes to life with the superior workmanship of the AP.
Crystal is one of the most striking details about the watch. Double curved crystal takes its final form at the end of a rather complicated production process. While the part of the crystal on the dial side is domed, it is possible to observe the vertically positioned curve on the outer surface between the positions of 6 and 12 o'clock. For those who don't understand what I'm talking about, I think the photos will be enough to tell. The case is made of 18K pink gold; measuring 41mm x 12.6mm, with sapphire crystals on both the front and back surfaces, and the waterproof level of the model is limited to 30 meters.
We also encounter unusual details on the dial. The 3D printed Audemars Piguet logo, along with the gold appliques on the black lacquer dial, continues to reinforce the “new” approach. I am sure that the tachymetric scale has attracted the attention of sports watch enthusiasts at first sight.
An alligator strap with a very large cross-section and a clasp made of 18K pink gold, are among the elements that reinforce the sporty emphasis of the watch. It is possible to have extra straps in countless colors and materials produced exclusively for the CODE 11.59 series in Audemars Piguet boutiques.
The Caliber 4401, which may be a subject for a review of its own, is a masterpiece in which Audemars Piguet shows all its skill. It has an integrated Flyback chronograph complication with column wheel coordinator and instant progressing date display. The automatic 40-jewel movement, consisting of 367 parts, operates at 28800vph and offers a 70-hour power reserve.
The Audemars Piguet logo on the dial of CODE 11.59 is a source of pride for some watch lovers and a confusing label for others. The deep-rooted history of the AP, its extraordinary level of workmanship and its prestige in the world of watchmaking, cannot be ignored by anyone. On the other hand, it may not be easy to be acquainted with a brand new model that deals with the AP design approach we are accustomed to with such a different perspective. My advice is to give this new time machine some time. Even those who are still unfamiliar with it will soon appreciate its unique design.
