New Code 11.59 Audemars Piguet Revealed

The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 launched to much fanfare – none of it particularly good. Even the usual suspects greeted the Code 11.59 with muted praise. The general consensus: dull. AP is too far along the line to sideline the Code 11.59. So AP’s doing what they can to revive its fortunes. Enter the new model variants . . .

The new model’s graduated lacquered (a.k.a., smoked) dial works with the Code 11.59’s “extra-thin” bezel and double curved glare-proof sapphire crystal to create an entirely different aesthetic effect.

It’s an excellent update. The previous models had way too much negative space in the dial, way too much nothing much going on.

I’m not saying the new dial colors – blue, burgundy, purple, light and dark grey – rescue the Code 11.59 from The Land of Ho-Hum, but they make a huge difference to the watch’s overall appeal, especially for the chronometer.

The Code 11.59 is no longer monolithic. It’s a blend of elements tied together by the dial and case. But wait, there’s more!

The Code 11.59 is now available in pink (a.k.a. rose) gold, white gold and two-tone cases.

As you can see, the combo brings out the watch’s previously subtle structural underpinnings, turning the watch from a round round get around, it’s really really round watch, to something far more interesting.

Folks this is history! Just ask AP . . .

Two-tone gold cases are extremely rare in the history of Audemars Piguet’s wristwatches. Out of the 550 wristwatches produced and sold between 1882 and 1969, only 8 examples combined two types of gold.

The blend of white and pink gold was particularly rare, with only one wristwatch recorded in the Manufacture’s archives before 1978. Although, this combination has become more prevalent today, it remains a distinct symbol of refinement and elegance.

Even without the two-tone effect, the new dial’s “smoked burgundy lacquered dial’s red shades and rich nuances” are fascinating. No doubt more so in the flesh.

Suddenly, it all makes sense. Audemars Piguet launching this watch without these design elements, not so much.

Whether or not the new dial and case material combinations rescue the Code 11.59 Audemars Piguet from ignominy – created by both the dull dials and the ridiculously pretentious ad campaign – remains to be seen.

One thing’s for sure: the new Code 11.59 Audemars Piguet dials are much better looking. I’d bet dollars to donuts the market will reward the update with previously denied sales Watch this space.