The New "CODE 11.59 by AUDEMARS PIGUET" Collection, the First in 26 Years | AUDEMARS PIGUET
AUDEMARS PIGUET
Captivating from every angle.
Endlessly fascinating.
Audemars Piguet's new collection, unveiled at SIHH 2019, is difficult to capture fully in photographs due to its unique shape. Now, with its launch in Japan, anyone can experience its allure firsthand in stores. We introduce this year's "growth stock," born to become the future hallmark of Audemars Piguet.
Text by KOIZUMI Yoko
Showcasing modern precision engineering across six calibers and 13 models.
Twenty-six years after the "Royal Oak Offshore" was introduced in 1993, Audemars Piguet has finally launched a new collection: "CODE 11.59 by AUDEMARS PIGUET." The collection name is read as "Code Eleven Fifty-Nine by Audemars Piguet."
CODE is an acronym for "Challenge," "Own," "Dare," and "Evolve," while 11.59 refers to the last minute before a new day begins. Viewed head-on, "CODE 11.59 by AUDEMARS PIGUET" presents a classic facade: a round case, baton hour markers, and a refined Arabic numeral font.
Looking only at the photos, I almost made a mistake. While classic is good, I wondered if it might be too authentic, getting lost among the more distinctive collections. At the same time, I felt the series name was perhaps a bit grandiose.
But once the watch is on the wrist and the dial is tilted, "!"
The sapphire crystal reveals multiple lines, rippling like waves. What a wonderful gimmick! Not only these ripples, but the dial itself shows different expressions depending on the viewing angle, making you want to look from every perspective, and never tire of it. It brings joy every time you look at the watch. This model appeals to such primitive sensibilities.
This gimmick is achieved through the latest sapphire crystal cutting technology. The inner surface of the crystal is a dome shape, curved in all directions, while the outer surface is curved only vertically, connecting 12 and 6 o'clock. This difference in curvature creates a unique visual effect. Furthermore, by keeping the rehaut upright and the bezel thin, the sapphire crystal is maximized. This design also enhances the effect.
Top: The octagonal middle case, case back, and lugs integrated with the bezel form a three-piece structure. The bezel extends to the lugs, but the rear legs are merely attached to the case, not connected. This deliberate separation allows for more intricate finishing, such as distinct polishing and satin finishes within the complex design. Bottom left, center, and right: The brand logo is applied using industry-first 3D printing. The sense of depth is incredible!
Meanwhile, the case, composed of multiple parts, also features an innovative design. An octagonal middle case is sandwiched between round parts on both the front and back. The lugs are attached to the bezel and case on the surface. Being separate from the middle case, each component is exceptionally well-crafted. Even from a distance, the "CODE 11.59 by AUDEMARS PIGUET" is recognizable by its presence.
The visual effect of the ripples and the meticulously crafted case contrast with the classic dial, greatly stimulating the imagination. At this point, the collection's name finally made sense. 11:59. The precious time connecting today and tomorrow, leading into a new day. This must be what it means for "tradition and innovation to coexist."
In addition to the Automatic and Chronograph models introduced below, the collection includes complex and ultra-complex timepieces such as the Perpetual Calendar, Flying Tourbillon, Tourbillon Openworked, and Minute Repeater Supersonnerie, showcasing the brand's full capabilities. This lineup should convey Audemars Piguet's passion. It will undoubtedly form a pillar of the brand, following the "Royal Oak" and "Millenary."
CODE 11.59 by AUDEMARS PIGUET AUTOMATIC
Ref: 15210BC.OO.A002CR.01 (Black dial), 15210BC.OO.A321CR.01 (Blue dial), 15210OR.OO.A002CR.01 (Black dial), 15210OR.OO.A099CR.01 (White dial)
Movement: Self-winding (Cal.4302)
Case Material: 18K white gold, 18K pink gold
Case Diameter, Thickness: 41mm, 10.7mm
Strap Material: Alligator
Water Resistance: 30m
Price: ¥2,800,000 (excluding tax)
CODE 11.59 by AUDEMARS PIGUET CHRONOGRAPH
Ref: 26393BC.OO.A002CR.01 (Black dial), 26393BC.OO.A321CR.01 (Blue dial), 26393OR.OO.A002CR.01 (Black dial), 26393OR.OO.A321CR.01 (Blue dial)
Movement: Self-winding (Cal.4401), chronograph with instant jump date display and flyback function
Case Material: 18K white gold, 18K pink gold
Case Diameter, Thickness: 41mm, 12.6mm
Water Resistance: 30m
Price: ¥4,450,000 (excluding tax)











