We take a quick look at the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Selfwinding Chronograph introduced earlier this year with smoked grey dials. In either pink gold or white gold cases with black ceramic inserts.
Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Selfwinding Chronograph with Smoked Dial
This two-tone contemporary timepiece brings together 18-carat pink/white gold, black ceramics and a smoked grey dial finished with vertical satin-brushing.
The Case, Dial and Hands
Audemars Piguet has introduced a new dial variant with a contrasting center case material. These elements lend a significantly sporty design to the classic circle shape, and takes it a step closer towards a hybrid classic sports look.
The case of the Code 11.59 Selfwinding Chronograph with smoked dial remains the same as its original incarnation. It’s still got the octagonal case middle, the lugs hanging off the bezel and the back, and of course the warped sapphire crystal at the front.
The contemporary double curved sapphire crystal, whose tense, arched profile plays with depth, perspective and light for a unique optic experience. While its internal surface is shaped like a dome, it is vertically curved from 6 to 12 o’clock.
The smoked grey dial finished with vertical satin-brushing is a good addition to the previous fume lacquered dial models. It is available in a white gold or rose gold case; and we prefer the latter. While the white gold model is stealthy and understated, the rose gold and black colorway contrast accompanied by matching applied indices and logo makes the watch look more attractive than the monotone version.
The watch measures 41 mm in diameter and 12.6 mm in height. It is water resistant to 30m.
The movement: AP Caliber 4401
Driving the Code 11.59 Selfwinding Chronograph with smoked dial is the Calibre 4401. Unlike other brands with third party movement suppliers, the calibre 4401 is AP made. The self-winding movement has a power reserve of 70 hours, and features a column wheel horizontal clutch layout. It is also equipped with a flyback function that allows the user to restart the chronograph without stopping and resetting it first. This is a functionality that may be well-known to the average enthusiast but interestingly still isn’t all that common in high end chronograph watches.
Operationally, the chronograph pushers are smooth, but engages with a satisfying click with each push. Pressure to start, stop, fly back and reset is remarkably similar, which points to a well engineered and built movement. Movement finishing is excellent, in keeping with the general tone of AP.
Concluding thoughts
Strange to say, the contrasting ceramic center case and brushed dial makes a significant change in the look of the watch. It is certainly more exciting than before, with hints of Offshore sportiness without its gargantuan sizing.
While it will still remain in the shadows of the Royal Oak for some time, the 11.59 collection is steadily evolving into a recognizable profile. And to our eyes, look quite handsome. Both models in white and rose gold are priced at US$46,200.00.
