Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph: Launches with a New Look

Words by Nhat Minh

Oct 31 2024

The Swiss watch brand Audemars Piguet proudly introduces a new version of the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph with a 41mm size. The watch’s dial is adorned with architectural details showcasing the contemporary aesthetic of the Caliber 2952 movement. The movement components feature primarily gray and black tones, offering a refined contrast alongside the case crafted from a combination of 18-carat white gold and black ceramic.


Smooth transitions between contrasting colors

The design lines of this new creation celebrate a variety of rich details with color nuances ranging from light gray to black. The Caliber 2952 is framed by a slate gray bezel with circular satin and matte finishes and a white second scale on top. The rhodium-coated bridges are silver, contrasting with the black main plate, while the barrel bridge at the 12 o’clock position is also black to emphasize visual symmetry between the left and right sides of the dial. The gear mechanisms are fully visible, with openwork sub-dials at the 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock positions. The hour, minute, second hands, and sub-dial hands are crafted from prominent pink gold, matching the pink gold balance wheel that enhances the flying tourbillon mechanism at the 6 o’clock position.

The robustness of ceramic and the elegance of gold

The geometric lines of the new Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet combine perfectly with the octagonal ceramic case and crown beside the bezel, lugs, and pushers crafted from 18-carat white gold. The addition of ceramic highlights the masterful craftsmanship and advanced technology expertise of Audemars Piguet artisans. Creating ceramic components is relatively complex, beginning with optimizing a formula based on Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2) powder and undergoing sequential production steps. Specifically, ceramic loses about ¼ of its volume during the crafting process, which enhances its scratch resistance to the highest level. Moreover, the sintering process at over 1000°C gives ceramic color intensity, which is then enhanced by decorative techniques tailored to the case.

Despite its incredible hardness, the artisans must finish ceramic details by hand to meet Audemars Piguet’s standards. For instance, alternating between polished and satin-brushed edges—an iconic feature of the brand—requires the artisans’ focus and meticulous attention to detail. Additionally, the movement integrates over 111 inner angles within the bridges and decorative details, all handcrafted. These finishes create contrast across the watch, offering subtle highlights alongside the gray and black tones for a dynamic visual effect.

Complex movement

First introduced in 2020 in the blue version of the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph, Calibre 2952 has since been used for various other models in the collection. This unique mechanism combines the instant reset and restart of the chronograph function, a useful change for performing multiple successive time measurements. The transparent sapphire glass on the back of the watch allows collectors to admire the intricate decorations along with the rhodium-colored 22-carat pink gold rotor.

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