The Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection recently introduced seven new pink gold references in diameters of 38mm and 41mm; besides showcasing Audemars Piguet’s unparalleled craftsmanship, the new watches exhibit new intricate guilloché dials. This signature embossed dial pattern, which was first seen on the 2023 stainless steel timepieces, is the result of hand-engraved concentric circles and tiny holes that play with light.

Enhanced by a variety of classic colors, namely in black, green and Audemars Piguet’s signature dark blue known as “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50”, the lineup also introduces a standout in light blue, a pastel hue that’s complemented by pink gold accents and case in the same metal. This particular reference is among one of two new 38mm Selfwinding models, expanding the range introduced in October 2023. The other being the “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” variation that’s accentuated with pink gold details, adding depth and sophistication.

Since its inception in 2019, the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection has been designed to appeal to a new generation of watch enthusiasts, while maintaining the brand’s core values of craftsmanship and technical excellence. With its modern aesthetic and sophisticated engineering, the collection has become a significant part of Audemars Piguet’s portfolio, reflecting the brand’s ability to evolve and innovate.

Continuing a legacy of innovation

Let’s reel it back to five years ago. I remember being in the auditorium at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in the Winter of 2019 when Audemars Piguet announced the launch of the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet. The brand unveiled then a striking lineup of 13 new references (along with three new calibers) that collectively exhibited a design that was refreshing and, I daresay, avant-garde of the Manufacture. Quiet gasps rippled across the room as a slew of new Selfwinding models and Chronographs, a Minute Repeater Supersonnerie, Tourbillon, and a Perpetual Calendar were presented to us. At first glance, our eyes were caught by the complex geometry and contemporary aesthetic of the case design. This very structure, composed of an octagonal case within a round bezel and caseback which included an intricate sapphire crystal, became home to new in-house calibers, including high complication movements.

While the audience was buzzing from excitement from the impressive number of new watches, it was also in recognition that we were witnessing a brand-new chapter that was unfolding before our very eyes. It was history in the making.

Since then, the collection has seen remarkable advancements. High complications were introduced, including the Grande Sonnerie Carillon Supersonnerie in 2020 and the Flying Tourbillon Chronograph in 2021. A significant addition came in December 2022 with the Starwheel, reintroducing the iconic wandering hour complication to Audemars Piguet’s repertoire. This was followed by the unveiling of the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Ultra-Complication Universelle RD#4 in February 2023, which with 40 functions and 23 complications was the most complicated watch ever produced by the Manufacture, and also exhibited advancements in ergonomics and user-friendliness.

The collection epitomizes Audemars Piguet’s forward-thinking mindset, as it continues to push the boundaries of watchmaking, blending tradition with innovation to create unexpected timepieces.

Modernizing new shapes

Central to the design of Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet is, of course, the abovementioned octagonal case middle that’s seamlessly integrated between the round caseback and extra-thin bezel. In fact, this play on integrating organic and rigid shapes into a singular timepiece breaks the monotony of the conventional watch shape as we know it. The multifaceted architecture of the case has allowed for the mixing of metals, such as in creating two-tone designs, and in recent years, the introduction of a ceramic case middle. In 2023, the collection expanded to include its first models in stainless steel, bringing a sportier material to the line.

As with the case of the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet, the multi-layered structure is state-of-the-art. The hollowed lugs are separate pieces that are forged from stainless steel or precious metals such as 18K white or pink gold, which thereafter are individually satin-brushed and polished. Now here’s where it requires an extraordinary level of precision during assembly. The upper part of the lugs is soldered to the extra-thin bezel, while the bottom part of the lugs leans against the caseback in perfect alignment.

Such craftsmanship is the Manufacture’s effortless sleight of hand when it comes to designing and molding new shapes. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the lugs are not just functional components, but they are also integral to the watch’s visual identity and ergonomic comfort, enhancing the overall architectural aesthetic of the watch.

A platform for creative design

The evolution of the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection has been marked by significant advancements in both materials and design, particularly in its dials. Since its inception, the collection has introduced a vibrant array of colors with sunburst and smoked finishes, enamel dials and gem-set versions, while also debuting dials in natural stone, aventurine and its first sapphire crystal dials, the latter effectively showcasing the intricate Minute Repeater Supersonnerie movement.

The latest patterened dials in this case add dimension to the colored canvas, allowing the elongated and faceted hour markers to emphasize legibility. The typography of the seconds scale and crown have been slightly updated to reinforce the modern style. Additionally, the logo is presented in relief — one created through a galvanic growth process, akin to 3D printing, where thin layers of 24K gold form the letters of the Audemars Piguet signature and are connected by hair-fine gold threads that are nearly invisible to the naked eye. All these details are housed under a double-curved sapphire crystal that offers a unique visual experience.

New generation in-house movements

The 38mm self-winding models feature the caliber 5900, known for its slim profile at 3.9 mm, high frequency of 4Hz, and a 60-hour power reserve. This movement, introduced in 2022, epitomizes precision and reliability.

The 41mm models are equipped with either the caliber 4302, which offers hours, minutes, seconds and date functions, or the caliber 4401, an integrated self-winding chronograph with a column wheel and flyback function; its vertical clutch system ensures smooth operation of the chronograph, while its patented reset mechanism guarantees precise hand positioning.

The sapphire crystal casebacks reveal the intricate haute horlogerie decorations, including a 22K pink gold oscillating weight. Components are adorned with polished angles, vertical satin-finishing, Côtes de Genève, circular graining and chamfering.

With these demonstrations of ability, Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet embodies a lineup that is technically sophisticated as it is visually stunning. Undoubtedly, Audemars Piguet is set to uphold its legacy of excellence for generations to come.

Discover the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection here.