Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet: A bold restart?

When you say "Audemars Piguet," 99% of people immediately think of one model: the Royal Oak. 
No wonder: Since its introduction in 1972, this icon has not only redefined the luxury sports watch category but also significantly shaped the brand’s unprecedented economic success.
But that was also a challenge: For many, Audemars Piguet stood solely for one watch.

A true “one-trick pony,” a trademark that became a shackle.

Why Audemars Piguet dared a new beginning

In 2019, Audemars Piguet consciously decided to step out of the shadow of the Royal Oak with a completely new model line. No retro inspiration, no rebranding, no “reissue” of old successes, but a watch completely rethought from the ground up: the Code 11.59.

The name “CODE” stands for:

•    Challenge
•    Own
•    Dare
•    Evolve

And “11.59”?
The last minute before midnight, a symbol of a new beginning. 
Sounds dramatic? 
Maybe. 
But there is substance behind the concept.

The Ref. 26393NB.OO.A002KB.01: What makes it special

1. The Case, a Multi-layered Design Marvel

This version of the Code 11.59 combines white gold and black ceramic in a complexly constructed case. The middle section is octagonal, a subtle nod to the Royal Oak, while the bezel and case back are round. The skeletonized lugs are only attached to the bezel and seem to float on the case.
Each element is individually hand-finished, polished, satin-finished, and, if necessary, worked on under the microscope. The manufacturing tolerances are so precise that lasers are even used.

2. The Glass: Double Curved Madness

The glass of the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 is a double-domed sapphire crystal with a unique shape: It combines a classic curvature on the inside with a vertical curve on the outside.
This design not only allows a clear, undistorted view from above but also creates exciting optical effects where the dial seemingly deforms from certain angles.
Combined with the double-sided anti-reflective coating, the glass appears almost invisible and lets the dial with its vertically satin-finished dark gray and applied white gold indices come into its own from every angle.

3. The movement: Top-class flyback chronograph

Inside works the in-house caliber 4401, a fully integrated flyback chronograph with column wheel control and vertical clutch.
Thanks to the display back, the carefully decorated movement can be admired.
The flyback function allows the chronograph to be restarted immediately without prior stopping. Functional, elegant, and probably rarely used.
But that is exactly what luxury is: the possibility, not the necessity.

Curiosities and small masterpieces in detail

•    Optical illusion: Depending on the light incidence, the dial seems to float, an effect created by the case geometry and the curved glass.
•    Floating lugs: The underside of the lugs does not fully touch the case, a constructive highlight with an aesthetic effect.
•    70 hours power reserve: Because a watch can also be left lying without stopping.
•    Every part hand-finished: Even those that are never visible: Haute Horlogerie begins where compromises end.

Conclusion: The beginning of the end of the Royal Oak monoculture?

With the Code 11.59 Ref. 26393NB.OO.A002KB.01, Audemars Piguet proves courage and innovative strength. Instead of resting on past successes, the brand opens a new chapter, complex, characterful, and uncompromisingly independent.
Was it a risk? Yes.
Was it necessary? Absolutely.
Because those who want to make history must not rely on it alone.
And even if the Code 11.59 will probably not dethrone the Royal Oak, it remains an extraordinary watch, an impressive example of the highest watchmaking art that excites true connoisseurs and enthusiasts.

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