Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Flying Tourbillon Chronograph

From its humble beginnings in 1875 in the Vallée de Joux, Switzerland, to its present-day status as one of the most revered watchmakers in the world, Audemars Piguet has continually pushed the boundaries of horological excellence. The brand's latest offering, the Code 11.59 Flying Tourbillon Chronograph, is a testament to this unwavering pursuit of perfection, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity in a timepiece that is both technically impressive and aesthetically captivating.



The Code 11.59 collection, launched in 2019, marked a significant departure from Audemars Piguet's traditional design language, signaling a bold step into the 21st century. The collection's name, an acronym for "Challenge, Own, Dare, Evolve," encapsulates the brand's spirit of innovation and its willingness to embrace new challenges. The Code 11.59 Flying Tourbillon Chronograph, the latest addition to this groundbreaking collection, further exemplifies this ethos, showcasing Audemars Piguet's mastery of complex complications and its ability to create timepieces that are both technically sophisticated and visually striking.



The watch's 41mm case is a study in contrasts, combining the warmth of 18-carat white gold with the sleek modernity of black ceramic. The bezel, lugs, and pushpieces, crafted from white gold, gleam against the backdrop of the black ceramic case, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. The sapphire crystal, both front and back, offers an unobstructed view of the intricate movement within, while the glareproofed coating ensures optimal legibility in any lighting condition.



The dial, executed in a dark grey hue, provides a sophisticated canvas for the pink gold hands, which are coated with a luminescent material for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. The inner bezel, also in dark grey, features subtle markings that complement the overall aesthetic of the watch. The absence of numerals on the dial allows the intricate mechanics of the movement to take center stage, further emphasizing the watch's technical prowess.



The dark grey rubber-coated strap, with its textured finish, adds a sporty touch to the watch, while the 18-carat white gold AP folding clasp ensures a secure and comfortable fit on the wrist. The combination of materials and finishes creates a timepiece that is both elegant and contemporary, suitable for any occasion.



At the heart of the Code 11.59 Flying Tourbillon Chronograph beats the Calibre 2952, a self-winding movement that showcases Audemars Piguet's mastery of haute horlogerie. This complex mechanism, comprising 479 parts and 40 jewels, boasts a flying tourbillon, a flyback chronograph, and a 65-hour power reserve. The flying tourbillon, a marvel of micro-engineering, not only enhances the watch's accuracy but also serves as a mesmerizing visual spectacle, its delicate cage rotating gracefully at 3 Hz. The flyback chronograph, a complication prized by watch enthusiasts, allows for the instantaneous resetting and restarting of the chronograph function, adding a practical dimension to the watch's technical capabilities.



The movement's architecture is a testament to Audemars Piguet's commitment to aesthetic excellence. The bridges and plates, finished in contrasting shades of black and anthracite grey, create a visually captivating backdrop for the intricate workings of the mechanism. Subtle pink gold accents, echoing the color of the hands, add a touch of warmth and luxury to the movement's overall aesthetic. The openworked design of the dial and the sapphire caseback offer a captivating glimpse into this mechanical ballet, inviting the wearer to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that have gone into its creation.



The watch's 41mm case size strikes a perfect balance between presence and wearability. It's large enough to make a statement on the wrist, yet not so imposing as to feel cumbersome or uncomfortable. The combination of 18-carat white gold and black ceramic is a masterstroke of material selection, creating a timepiece that is both luxurious and contemporary. The white gold bezel, lugs, and pushpieces gleam with a polished luster, while the black ceramic case exudes a subtle matte finish, creating a pleasing contrast that draws the eye. The interplay of light and shadow on the case's complex geometry further enhances its visual appeal, making it a true feast for the eyes.



The dial, while seemingly simple at first glance, is a testament to Audemars Piguet's mastery of minimalist design. The dark grey inner bezel and hands, along with the absence of numerals, create a sense of understated elegance. The pink gold hands, with their luminescent coating, provide a subtle pop of color against the dark dial, ensuring optimal legibility in any lighting condition. The openworked design of the dial offers a tantalizing glimpse of the intricate movement within, inviting the wearer to explore its mechanical wonders.



The Calibre 2952, visible through the sapphire caseback, is a masterpiece of horological engineering. The flying tourbillon, suspended without an upper bridge, appears to float weightlessly above the movement, its delicate cage rotating gracefully at 3 Hz. The flyback chronograph, a complication prized by watch enthusiasts, adds a layer of functionality to the watch, allowing for the instantaneous resetting and restarting of the chronograph function with a single push of a button. The movement's architecture is a testament to Audemars Piguet's commitment to aesthetic excellence. The bridges and plates, finished in contrasting shades of black and anthracite grey, create a visually captivating backdrop for the intricate workings of the mechanism. Subtle pink gold accents, echoing the color of the hands, add a touch of warmth and luxury to the movement's overall aesthetic.



The dark grey rubber-coated strap, with its textured finish, provides a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist. The 18-carat white gold AP folding clasp, engraved with the Audemars Piguet logo, is a testament to the brand's attention to detail. The strap's color complements the dark grey dial, creating a cohesive and harmonious aesthetic.



The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Flying Tourbillon Chronograph is a timepiece that embodies the brand's spirit of innovation and its unwavering pursuit of horological excellence. It is a watch that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, technical sophistication with aesthetic refinement, creating a timepiece that is both a marvel of engineering and a work of art. With a retail price of CHF 272,500, it is a testament to the brand's commitment to creating timepieces that are not only technically impressive but also aesthetically captivating. It is a watch that speaks to the discerning collector who appreciates the finer things in life, who values craftsmanship and innovation, and who seeks a timepiece that is not only a symbol of status but also a source of personal enjoyment and pride.