Audemars Piguet has learned a lesson or two since launching the Code 11.59 in 2019 and is repeating the success story of its 2020 models with stunning smoky dials. While smoky blue dials appeared in 2020 in rose gold cases, for the first time this smoky blue lacquered sunburst dial is paired with a white gold case. The watches are available in automatic time and date indication versions and chronographs with specifications identical to previous versions, and the combination of white gold and the intense gradient blue color is simply magnificent.
HISTORY
Audemars Piguet has a history of provoking extreme reactions, starting with the Royal Oak in 1972, continuing with the high-testosterone Royal Oak Offshore in 1993, and then in 2019, the Code 11.59. However, once the dust settled and fans had time to digest the new Royal Oak offering and its "muscular brother" ROO, these models soon became some of the most sought-after watches on the market. Since 1972, AP, primarily relying on the Royal Oak model and its offshoots as its flagship product, decided it needed to move in a new direction and create an entirely new line of watches. The result was the Code 11.59, a bold step marking the brand's largest product and movement launch in 20 years. The Code 11.59 model has been around for three years and, like its RO siblings, is gaining more fans every day. Last year, the Code 11.59 collection models with chronographs and automatic winding with time and date indication acquired much-needed chic: beautiful lacquered dials in bright colors and two-tone cases.
COMPLEX CASE OF CODE 11.59
The complex architecture of the Code 11.59 case with an octagonal middle case, sandwiched between a thin bezel and a round caseback, is characteristic of both white gold models. The most notable feature of the 41mm case is the octagonal central container, paying homage to the iconic octagonal bezel of the Royal Oak model. When viewed from the side, the floating lugs are machined and welded to the bezel module. Impeccably executed case surfaces have satin-finished, faceted, and polished finishes.
FROM BLUE OCEAN TO PITCH DARKNESS
Gradient dials, also known as fumé or smoky dials, are fashionable these days: the light color at the center of the dial becomes more saturated, transitioning to a darker shade at the periphery. The blue chosen for the dials changes from light sky blue in the center to almost blue-black on the inner flange (60-minute scale on time and date indicator watches and tachymetric scale on the chronograph). Additionally, the smoky blue lacquer - obtained using eight layers of glossy lacquer and polished to a shine - is complemented by a sophisticated sunburst finish on the base, evoking a constantly changing play of light, similar to sun rays seen underwater.
Made from 18-carat white gold, the polished baton hands, rounded and applied gold hour markers, and Arabic numerals are distinguished by their elegance. Continuing the Midas line, the AP signature on the dial is also made of gold, but using a chemical process known as galvanic growth. Like a 3D printer, the process lays down layer upon layer of 24-carat white gold to create miniature letters. Connected by links no thicker than a human hair, the letters are applied to the dial manually and secured with tiny pins.
As with everything related to Code 11.59, the devil is in the details. The beautiful dial is protected by sapphire crystal with double anti-reflective treatment, domed on the underside and vertically curved on the outer surface from 6 to 12 o'clock. This complex double curvature provides a unique visual perception and even has a polished bevel.
NEXT-GENERATION MECHANICS
While the combination of the case metal and dial color is new, there is no evolution in the mechanisms. Recall that Code 11.59 also became an important milestone for AP in watchmaking, marking the introduction of new proprietary movements, especially the long-awaited integrated chronograph caliber 4401 with a column wheel and flyback function.
The Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet with self-winding and date is equipped with caliber 4302, an automatic movement with a large diameter of 32 mm. It includes modern solutions such as balance bridges and traditional decoration with polished bevels and Geneva stripes.
Quick Facts: 41 mm x 10.7 mm white gold case - water resistance up to 30 m - smoky blue lacquered dial with sunburst finish - automatic caliber 4302 - hours, minutes, seconds and date - black rubber-coated strap with white gold clasp - ref. 15210BC.OO.A002KB.01 - 30,400 EUR
The Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Chronograph is equipped with caliber 4401, an integrated chronograph movement with vertical clutch and column wheel. As we detailed here, this mechanism is an ultra-modern contemporary chronograph. It is very pleasant in terms of layout and design, as well as powerful with a 70-hour power reserve. Both calibers are equipped with an openworked rotor made of 22-carat pink gold and a sapphire caseback, allowing for an appreciation of the finish.
Quick Facts: 41 mm x 12.6 mm white gold - water resistance up to 30 m - smoky blue lacquered dial with sunburst finish - automatic caliber 4302 - flyback chronograph, hours, minutes, small seconds and date - black rubber-coated strap with white gold clasp - ref. 26393BC.OO.A002KB.01 - 48,000 EUR
More information on the Audemars Piguet website.