In February 2023, Audemars Piguet, the prestigious Swiss watchmaker based in Le Brassus, unveiled six new additions to its CODE 11.59 series, introducing the use of stainless steel for the first time in the collection’s history. Among these releases, four models are entirely crafted from stainless steel, while the remaining two feature black ceramic middle layers in the case, complemented by stainless steel bezels, lugs, and case backs. Beyond the introduction of new materials, these new timepieces showcase ergonomic design principles alongside clear timekeeping functionality, with innovative dial designs developed specifically for this collection. The launch of these new additions to the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 series once again highlights the seamless fusion of modern watchmaking technology with traditional craftsmanship.
“The introduction of stainless steel is one of the natural moves to achieve the long-term development and evolution of the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 series.”
François-Henry Bennahmias
Audemars Piguet Global CEO
CODE 11.59 series introduces modern new materials
Since its launch in 2019, the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 series watches have been mainly made of 18K white gold or rose gold. From 2021 to 2022, some models in this series will use gold cases with black or blue ceramic case middles, highlighting a more distinctive modern style. This year, the CODE 11.59 series introduces fine steel material for the first time. Four of the six new models are made entirely of stainless steel, while the other two are made of a combination of stainless steel and black ceramic, with beige dials, creating an elegant contrast.
Stainless steel, which has been successfully used in other Audemars Piguet series, is much more difficult to process than solid gold. This time, Audemars Piguet adheres to its expertise in stainless steel processing and finishing to design and produce the CODE 11.59 series of watches using this new material.
The CODE 11.59 series timepieces seamlessly integrate ultra-thin bezels, distinctive lugs, and octagonal middle case layers, presenting a sophisticated architectural beauty that ranks among Audemars Piguet‘s most intricate case constructions to date. The mechanical production of the case and the meticulous hand finishing of each component showcase the exquisite fusion of cutting-edge technology and traditional craftsmanship. Following rigorous procedures, skilled professionals employ specialized tools to achieve the intricate details, while the stainless steel components embody the extraordinary ingenuity of designers, engineers, and master craftsmen. Continuing Audemars Piguet’s time-honored tradition, the stainless steel elements undergo alternating polishing and satin-brushed finishes, creating captivating visual contrasts amidst subtle interplays of light and shadow.
New dial design
The six new 41mm diameter timepieces feature a brand-new dial design, embossed with a specially developed decorative pattern composed of countless concentric circles radiating outward to create a layered wave motif. This pattern, making its debut on the dials of the CODE 11.59 series, offers a unique texture and enhances readability. Developed in collaboration between Audemars Piguet and Swiss engraving master Yann von Kaenel, the new pattern adds another iconic aesthetic element to the CODE 11.59 series timepieces.
In order to create a beautifully decorated dial, Yann von Kaenel needs to use an extremely complex and delicate process to hand-carve the stamping template. The wave pattern swings outward from the center of the dial, and light penetrates through hundreds of tiny grooves, reflecting the rich details of the dial pattern and reflecting the exquisiteness of this decorative craftsmanship.
The dials undergo coloring processes to enhance the vibrancy of the patterns. Specifically, blue and green hues are achieved through physical vapor deposition (PVD) techniques, while the beige tone is colored through electroplating. These techniques ingeniously highlight the depth of the embossed patterns, allowing the monochromatic blue and green dials to exhibit subtle gradients and a smoky texture.
Innovation in aesthetic design and ergonomics
This time, Audemars Piguet has injected new ideas into the design of the new CODE 11.59 series of self-winding watches and self-winding chronographs, paying more attention to wearing comfort and readability. The new extended hour markers replace the Arabic numerals that have been used in the CODE 11.59 series since its inception. The hour markers and hands are made of 18K white gold and are ground, faceted and polished to contrast with the dark-toned dial pattern. To improve readability, the hour markers and hands are coated with Super LumiNova fluorescent paint, which is clearly visible in the dark.
The inner bezel of the ultra-thin bezel has also undergone a redesign. The slope of the inner bezel has been reduced to minimize the height difference with the dial, while it has been widened to create smoother inclines, enhancing visual aesthetics. Previously, the CODE 11.59 series timepieces featured 5-second interval numeral hour markers on the inner bezel. The new models have refined this feature by adding more precise second markers, enhancing accuracy while imbuing a modern touch. Additionally, adjustments have been made to the font of the numeral hour markers.
Furthermore, the design of the crown and clasp introduces fresh perspectives. Compared to previous styles, the crown exhibits a more rounded shape with shallower yet more prominent grooves. Crafted from stainless steel, the crowns of the two beige models are complemented with black ceramic crown caps. The new timepieces come with either a pin buckle or a folding clasp, both engraved with the brand’s full name (AUDEMARS PIGUET), replacing the abbreviation “AP” traditionally used in this series.
These design updates on the details will gradually extend to the future introduction of gold models and watches with complex functionalities in this series.
Elegant and restrained color scheme
Six new watches use three classic colors to interpret the elegant and refined aesthetic style of the series. The color of the dial echoes the strap. The strap has a textured pattern and is lined with calfskin.
The iconic “Night Blue” hue from the Royal Oak collection makes its debut in two new additions to the CODE 11.59 series. The self-winding wristwatch, featuring hour, minute, second, and date displays, pairs a grey inner bezel that harmonizes with the stainless steel case, providing a soft complement to the deep blue dial. The platinum hour markers and hands create a striking contrast against the dial’s tone. The self-winding chronograph features dual-tone sub-dials in blue-grey at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions, while a grey sub-dial at 6 o’clock enhances readability while exuding elegance. The dials of the other two timepieces are adorned in a mysterious green tone reminiscent of khaki, paired with matching inner bezels. The chronograph’s sub-dial outer rings are rhodium-colored, injecting dynamic variation into the overall monochromatic design.
The remaining two timepieces boast vibrant beige tones. A smoked effect along the dial’s periphery enhances its captivating depth, paired with a black inner bezel. Following the design approach of the blue and green models, the beige self-winding chronograph features black-ringed beige sub-dials at 3 and 9 o’clock, complemented by a black small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock. Continuing this dual-tone aesthetic, the stainless steel case contrasts sharply with the black ceramic middle case and crown.
The sub-dials of the three self-winding chronographs undergo subtle sandblasting, accentuating the textured relief of the dial pattern.
Two new generation movements and a new exclusive oscillating weight
The six new watches cleverly combine cutting-edge watchmaking technology and traditional craftsmanship. They are all equipped with the latest generation movements, including Caliber 4302 with seconds and date display, and automatic winding with column wheel device and flyback chronograph function. Chain chronograph movement Caliber 4401. Both movements have patented setting mechanisms to ensure that the adjustment of watch functions is more stable and precise. The large size design with a diameter of 32 mm ensures more stable movement performance.
Caliber 4401 movement is equipped with a vertical clutch mechanism to prevent the hands from shaking when the chronograph function is started or stopped. The patented zero-return mechanism ensures that the hands of each chronograph sub-dial are returned to zero smoothly. Through the sapphire crystal case back, you can see the exquisite decorative details of the movement and the new CODE 11.59 series exclusive 22K rose gold hollow automatic oscillating weight.
“Born in Le Brassus, raised around the world.”
About Replica Watches
Undoubtedly, the classic styles of Audemars Piguet watches leave a deep impression. However, authentic Audemars Piguet watches can be quite expensive, making many admirers of their fashionable designs and exceptional quality hesitant to purchase. Fortunately, replica AP watches are now available to satisfy those who desire the classic Audemars Piguet style.
Replica AP watches are meticulously crafted replicas AP watches, known for their high degree of resemblance to the original models’ exquisite details. These replica watches not only resemble the appearance but also excel in craftsmanship and technology. Whether it is the Royal Oak series, Royal Oak Offshore series, or Tradition series, replica AP watches offer nearly perfect alternatives.
The superb craftsmanship and high-quality materials exhibited by replica AP watches ensure improved accuracy and reliability compared to genuine watches. These replica watches adopt high-quality materials such as stainless steel, ceramic, and precise mechanical movements to ensure normal operation and long-lasting use.
In addition to highly resembling the appearance and craftsmanship, replica AP watches provide more choices and flexibility. Consumers can choose different colors, materials, and dial styles according to their personal preferences, fulfilling their unique fashion needs. This flexibility makes replica AP watches an ideal choice for Audemars Piguet enthusiasts, whether for daily wear or as accessories for special occasions.
However, when purchasing replica AP watches, certain considerations should be taken into account. Firstly, ensure selecting reliable suppliers to guarantee the purchased replica watches’ quality. Secondly, clarify one’s budget and requirements to avoid sacrificing quality in pursuit of low prices. Lastly, understanding relevant laws and regulations is crucial to ensure legal and compliant purchasing behavior.
In conclusion, the ranking of Audemars Piguet watch models includes classic styles such as the Royal Oak series, Royal Oak Offshore series, and Tradition series, each with unique designs and characteristics. For those who admire the Audemars Piguet style, replica AP watches offer an affordable and highly faithful choice. These replica watches not only closely resemble the appearance and craftsmanship of the originals but also provide more choices and flexibility. However, when purchasing replica AP watches, consumers need to carefully select suppliers and ensure their purchasing behavior is legal and compliant. Let’s experience the classic charm of AP watch series together through replica AP watches!