Audemars Piguet Adds To Its Code 11.59 Collection

Audemars Piguet continues to push the boundaries of horological design with the latest iteration of its Code 11.59 collection—the Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph in 41mm. This new model, unveiled this month, is a striking blend of contemporary aesthetics and technical mastery, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation in both design and materials. With a palette of sophisticated greys and blacks, the timepiece exudes a sleek, modern elegance that is both subtle and bold.

The Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph’s dial is a masterclass in architectural construction, revealing the complexity of the Calibre 2952. The various shades of grey and black used throughout the design create a refined contrast, allowing the intricate components to stand out. The two-tone case combines 18-carat white gold with black ceramic, enhancing the watch’s modern appeal. The slate grey semi-matt inner bezel, finished with circular snailing, frames the dial, where the seconds scale is printed in white for easy readability.

The watch’s architectural bridges, rhodium-toned for a silver finish, contrast beautifully with the blackened mainplate. This subtle interplay of colors extends to the chronograph counters, which are positioned at 9 and 3 o’clock, offering a clear view of the underlying gears. Polished pink gold hands elegantly indicate the time and chronograph measures. At the same time, the balance wheel at 6 o’clock highlights the mesmerizing flying tourbillon, creating a focal point for the watch’s intricate mechanics.

One of the standout features of this timepiece is its case construction, which merges high-tech black ceramic with the brilliance of 18-carat white gold. The octagonal case middle and crown are crafted from deep black ceramic, a material that Audemars Piguet has perfected through cutting-edge technology. From its secret Zirconium Oxide powder formula to the sintering process that enhances the ceramic’s resistance and color intensity, the craftsmanship behind this material is as complex as the watch itself.

Despite the challenges of working with ceramic, Audemars Piguet’s artisans maintain their signature hand-finishing techniques, alternating between polished chamfers and satin-brushed surfaces. The result is a timepiece that not only resists scratches but also reflects light subtly, adding depth to the grey and black tones of the design. The 111 meticulously handcrafted inner angles on the bridges and decorative elements showcase the brand’s attention to detail and commitment to haute horlogerie.

This latest model is powered by the Calibre 2952, first introduced in 2020. Known for combining a chronograph complication with the beauty of a flying tourbillon, the movement offers a seamless resetting and instant restarting of the chronograph, making it ideal for precise timekeeping. The sapphire crystal caseback reveals the movement’s intricate decorations, including a rhodium-toned 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight, a testament to the fine craftsmanship that defines Audemars Piguet’s approach.

With its captivating blend of modern materials, innovative design, and horological expertise, the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph in grey and black embodies the brand’s pioneering spirit. It is not just a timepiece but a work of art designed for those who appreciate the technical complexity and the aesthetic sophistication of haute horlogerie.