Audemars Piguet has unveiled a captivating addition to its Code 11.59 collection: the Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon, now in a refined 38mm case size. This introduction marks a significant milestone, as it's the first time
Audemars Piguet has offered a self-winding flying tourbillon in this particular diameter, demonstrating the brand's continuous pursuit of pushing technical boundaries while catering to a wider range of wrist sizes. This new model celebrates 150 years of the watch manufacturer.
The Code 11.59 collection, since its inception, has represented a bold step forward for Audemars Piguet. It's a collection that embraces contemporary design while honoring the brand's rich heritage. This new Flying Tourbillon model embodies that spirit perfectly. Encased in 18-carat sand gold, a unique alloy making its debut in the Code 11.59 line, the watch exudes a warm, subtle glow. This particular gold, a blend of gold, copper, and palladium, shifts its appearance depending on the light, offering a spectrum of hues between white and pink gold. The case's complex architecture, a hallmark of the Code 11.59 collection, is further enhanced by the meticulous alternation of satin-brushed and polished surfaces, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow.
Courtesy of Audemars Piguet
Adding to the watch's allure is the dazzling array of diamonds. The case middle, lugs, and crown are meticulously set with 235 brilliant-cut diamonds, totaling approximately 1.2 carats. These diamonds are carefully selected by Audemars Piguet's gemologists, ensuring they meet the highest standards of clarity and color. They are then precisely cut in varying sizes to perfectly complement the case's multifaceted geometry. The setting itself is a testament to the brand's gem-setting expertise, with each diamond flawlessly aligned to maximize its brilliance and create a seamless, harmonious composition.
The dial of the Code 11.59 Flying Tourbillon continues the theme of understated. A sand gold-toned finish, achieved through Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD), provides a warm and radiant backdrop. The collection's signature embossed pattern, composed of concentric circles emanating from the center, adds depth and texture. This intricate pattern is not merely printed; it's the result of a collaboration with Swiss guilloché artisan Yann Von Kaenel, who hand-engraved the original die. Hundreds of tiny holes are incorporated into the design, further enhancing the dial's visual interest and creating a captivating interplay of light.
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At the heart of the dial, and indeed the watch itself, lies the flying tourbillon. Positioned at 6 o'clock, it offers an unobstructed view of the watch's beating heart. The flying tourbillon, unlike a traditional tourbillon, is supported only from below, creating the illusion that it's floating freely. This intricate mechanism is not just a visual spectacle; it serves a crucial function. By constantly rotating the balance wheel and escapement, it counteracts the effects of gravity, thereby enhancing the watch's accuracy. The 18-carat sand gold hour-markers and hands blend seamlessly with the dial's color scheme, and the luminescent coating on the hands ensures optimal readability even in low-light conditions.
Powering this masterpiece is the Calibre 2968, an ultra-thin self-winding flying tourbillon movement. This movement, initially unveiled in 2022 for Royal Oak models, is a marvel of micro-engineering. Measuring a mere 3.4mm in thickness, it's a testament to Audemars Piguet's mastery of miniaturization. To achieve this remarkable thinness, the engineers had to rethink and reposition several components. A new escapement was developed to drive the titanium tourbillon cage peripherally, improving energy distribution and reducing the overall weight of the regulating organ. The balance wheel has an improved amplitude that boosts efficiency, accuracy, and dependability.
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The movement's beauty is not confined to its technical prowess. The sapphire caseback reveals the meticulously finished components. Rhodium-toned bridges, delicately openworked, expose the inner workings of the movement, creating a symmetrical and visually captivating architecture. The decoration combines traditional techniques, like V-angles, with modern finishes like traits tirés, a straight-graining technique that replaces the more common Côtes de Genève. The sand gold-toned 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight, visible through the caseback, harmonizes with the overall color scheme of the watch. Calibre 2968 has a power reserve of 50 hours, with 33 jewels, a total diameter of 29.6 mm, 226 parts and a frequencey of 3 hz 21600 vph.
The watch is presented on a beige alligator strap with large square scales. The strap's slightly darker shade provides a subtle contrast to the case and dial, further accentuating their play with light. The 18-carat sand gold AP folding clasp, also adorned with brilliant-cut diamonds, adds a final touch of refinement. The strap offers a connection between the wearer and the timepiece, it is also where comfort and aesthetic are key to a comfortable watch wearing experience.
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Audemars Piguet's history is deeply intertwined with the development of complicated movements. From its early days crafting highly complex pocket watches to its pioneering role in the creation of wristwatches, the brand has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible. The company played a pivotal role in reviving classic complications in the latter half of the 20th century, introducing the thinnest self-winding perpetual calendar in 1978 and the first self-winding tourbillon wristwatch in 1986. The flying tourbillon, a more recent development, first appeared in the Royal Oak Concept collection in 2018.
The introduction of the Calibre 2968 in 2022 marked a significant advancement, allowing Audemars Piguet to incorporate a flying tourbillon into smaller case sizes. This new 38mm Code 11.59 Flying Tourbillon represents the culmination of this ongoing innovation, bringing a high complication to a more versatile and wearable size. It's a watch that appeals to both men and women who appreciate fine watchmaking and seek a timepiece that combines technical sophistication with a visually captivating design. Ilaria Resta, Chief Executive Officer, Audemars Piguet states "With its refined flying tourbillon and sand gold case glittering with diamonds, the new 38 mm Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet will grace the wrist with an uncompromising blend of cutting-edge technology and ultra-elegance."
Courtesy of Audemars Piguet
The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon in 38mm (Ref. 26665SG.ZZ.D209CR.01) is available by request. Interested clients are encouraged to contact Audemars Piguet directly or visit an authorized boutique to inquire about pricing and availability.
Case: 38mm, 18-carat sand gold. Set with 235 brilliant-cut diamonds (~1.2 carats) on case middle, crown, and lugs. Double curved glareproofed sapphire crystal and glareproofed sapphire caseback. Water resistant to 30m. Thickness 9.6mm.
Movement: Calibre 2968, selfwinding. Flying tourbillon. 33 jewels. 50-hour power reserve. Total diameter 29.6mm. 226 parts. Frequency 3 Hz (21,600 vph). Thickness 3.4mm.
Dial: Sand gold-toned embossed dial. Matching inner bezel. 18-carat sand gold hour-markers and luminescent hands.
Strap: Beige alligator strap. 18-carat sand gold AP folding clasp set with brilliant cut diamonds.
Price: On Request
Reference Number: 26665SG.ZZ.D209CR.01
Notes: First selfwinding flying tourbillon offered by Audemars Piguet in a 38mm diameter. Features the ultra-thin RD#3 movement, Calibre 2968. Sand gold is a new material to the Code 11.59 collection.