The New Gold & Ceramic Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Chronograph

Even though it has only been unveiled 2 years ago, Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet has already been presented in multiple iterations, whether with complex movements, high-end dials, two-tone cases or bold colours. Today, as part of the 2021 collection, Audemars Piguet is releasing a new version that is showing the true potential of this watch, a new combination of materials that reveals the beauty and complexity of its case. Here is the new Gold & Ceramic Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Chronograph.

It certainly took a bit of time to fully understand AP’s idea with the Code 11.59 collection. The inaugural models, mostly the time-and-date and selfwinding chronograph, were probably a bit too conservative and shy. But a year later, the brand reacted and brought some boldness to this collection, by bringing two-tone cases and smoked dials in an array of bright colours. This when the complexity of this watch and the sheer nature of its architectural case started to reveal to the world. This year, Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet is receiving new materials and, by playing on contrasts, the brand has managed to give this watch its most handsome edition so far – at least, in our books.

With the inaugural editions, where all the elements of the case were made in white or pink gold, this complexity was somehow a bit lost. Today, the addition of a black ceramic middle case brings the attention on some of the elements of the design only, namely the ultra-thin bezel with its hollowed lug modules, the complex design of the pushers and the superb details of finishing, alternating between brushed surfaces and polished accents.

Despite being made of black ceramic, the middle case retains its architectural and oh-so AP octagonal shape with brushed and polished accents. This black middle case makes the watch visually lighter, more aerial, somehow fully hollowed and suspended in the air. This Gold & Ceramic edition of the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Chronograph is delivered on a casual textile strap that, once again, adds more spices to the overall design. It will be available either in pink gold as presented here, but also in white gold.

Another new element on this gold/ceramic version is the dial. The base is here grey with a smoked/gradient effect, yet this dial is unique to this edition, thanks to a vertically brushed surface and a colder grey hue – it isn’t the same as used in this edition. All the elements of the dial are executed in gold, for the hands, the applied markers and the rings framing the sub-counters. It is also true for the ultra-detailed applied Audemars Piguet logo at 12 o’clock.

No changes regarding the mechanics, as these ceramic/gold editions of the Code 11.59 still rely on the recently-launched in-house selfwinding and integrated flyback chronograph calibre 4401 – a modern movement with column wheel, unique reset mechanism and strong energy storage. It is beautifully decorated and visible through a sapphire crystal.

Availability & Price

The new Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Chronograph gold & ceramic (ref. 26393NB.OO.A002CA.01 in white gold and ref. 26393NR.OO.A002CA.01 in rose gold) will be available as of May 2021 in boutiques and priced at CHF 38,650 (excl. taxes).

More details at www.audemarspiguet.com.