Le Brassus, October 2023 – Swiss Haute Horlogerie manufacturer Audemars Piguet continues to explore new horizons for Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet with the launch of a new 38 mm case size. Merging creativity with technical complexity, the teams revisited the proportions of the intricate three-part case to fit watch lovers’ slimmer wrists. The new diameter debuts with two selfwinding models featuring an 18-carat pink gold case enriched with an embossed dial in a choice of purple or ivory hues and a corresponding alligator strap. In addition to presenting the collection’s design evolution announced at the beginning of the year, the two references also benefit from the latest generation selfwinding movement, Calibre 5900, launched in 2022. Following on the unveiling of the Ultra-Complication Universelle RD#4 and the first stainless steel models, these new timepieces reinforce once more the infinite possibility of the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection.
The Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection continues to grow with the arrival of a brand-new 38 mm case size. This new diameter debuts with two 18-carat pink gold selfwinding models enriched with ivory or purple hues. © Courtesy of Audemars Piguet.
THE PERFECT FIT
The new 38 mm Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding has been designed with smaller wrists in mind. This size, which complements the collection’s current 41 and 42 mm offering, debuts with two models crafted in 18-carat pink gold. Although displaying a smaller diameter, the two timepieces have retained the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet aesthetic codes.
Its case is composed of an octagonal case middle positioned within an extra-thin bezel and a round caseback. The upper part of the stylised lugs is welded to the bezel, while the lower part leans delicately against the caseback in perfect alignment. The contemporary case has been finished with the same meticulous care as the Manufacture’s calibres, the refined alternation of satin-brushing and polished chamfers emphasising its multifaceted architecture.
Following the collection’s design evolution introduced earlier this year, the crown features shallower, yet more pronounced indentations, furthering the case’s geometrical complexity.
PLAYING WITH COLOURS AND LIGHT
The two 18-carat pink gold models offer elegant contrasts. The first watch is enriched with a vibrant purple dial and a matching strap, while the second timepiece presents a more discreet, yet shiny ivory aesthetic.
Both timepieces are endowed with the collection’s latest dial design evolution. The embossed dial, which reproduces a striking gradient structure, was developed by Audemars Piguet in collaboration with Swiss guilloché craftsman Yann von Kaenel. This new dial is decorated with hundreds of tiny holes that move outwards from its centre in a wave-like pattern, giving off unique colour effects. The purple and ivory hues of the two dials have been achieved by PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) to preserve and enhance the depth of the embossed pattern and maximise the play of light. The new faceted and polished hour-markers and hands accentuate contrasts. In addition, the hands are filled with luminescent coating for optimum legibility in the dark.
Each timepiece is paired with a “large square scale” alligator strap matching the dial tone and is fitted with the collection’s new 18-carat pink gold pin buckle engraved with ”Audemars Piguet”. Two rubber-coated straps lined with calfskin leather and embellished with a textile pattern, in ivory or purple hues, will be available in boutiques.
THE LATEST GENERATION SELFWINDING CALIBRE
The two highly contemporary timepieces are powered by the Manufacture’s latest selfwinding hour, minute, seconds and date movement, Calibre 5900, which first appeared in 2022 on certain 37 mm Royal Oak references. This movement combines a slim 4 mm thickness, a high 4Hz frequency and a 60-hour power reserve. The mechanism is visible through the sapphire caseback revealing its 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight along with the refined decorations adorning the components, such as the polished angles, vertical satin brushing, Côtes de Genève, circular graining and chamfering.
“Seek beyond.”
