The new "CODE 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Chronograph" features a black ceramic middle case for the first time. Following on from last year's two-tone gold, the range of expression has expanded to two-tone materials, giving the watch a sporty look. The canvas-style rubber strap, which is now standard equipment at the time of shipment for the first time, is available in a wide range of optional colors. You can also enjoy changing it up on existing models.
This new chronograph features a black ceramic middle case. The smoke gray dial has a finish that emphasizes vertical hairlines. Automatic winding (Cal. 4401). 40 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 70 hours. Right: 18KPG x ceramic, left: 18KWG x ceramic (diameter 41.0mm, thickness 12.6mm). Water resistant to 30m. Both are priced at 4,950,000 yen (tax included).
Interview and text by Hiroyuki Suzuki
[Article published in the May 2021 issue of Khronos Japan]
The next generation of iconic motifs: CODE 11.59 by Audemars Piguet
Throughout its long history dating back to the 19th century, Audemars Piguet has woven together the past, present, and future. The CODE 11.59 by Audemars Piguet (hereinafter CODE 11.59), which debuted in 2019 as a next-generation iconic motif that connects all of these, already exudes the air of a historic piece despite being a completely new design. By combining multiple modern manufacturing techniques, the product's appearance and texture are unlike anything seen before, yet its solid stability is none other than the DNA extracted from the archives. Last year, a two-tone gold case and a smoke gradient dial were added, further expanding the range of expression. Now, in its third season since its debut, the brand has finally introduced a bi-material case. A black ceramic middle case is sandwiched between an 18K gold bezel and case back.
This is a three-hand model with a two-tone gold case, released in 2020. It normally comes with an alligator strap, but the photo shows it fitted with an optional rubber strap. The canvas-like texture gives it a casual look. Automatic (Cal. 4302). 32 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 70 hours. 18KWG x 18KPG (diameter 41.0mm, thickness 10.7mm). Water resistant to 30m. Both are 3.3 million yen (tax included). The separately sold rubber strap is 64,900 yen (tax included).
The CODE 11.59 bezel, with its integrated skeletonized lugs, forms a gentle arc that follows the curve of the dial. To achieve a perfect fit, the supporting caseband must have the exact same curvature, a feat not easily achieved when using ceramic. While recent advances in fine ceramic sintering technology have enabled control of shrinkage rates with considerable precision, it would still be impossible to achieve a perfect match. Audemars Piguet chose to use machining to achieve the desired results. Their new partner is Bangerter, a family-run Swiss company like Audemars Piguet. They specialize in high-precision cutting of ultra-hard materials such as tungsten.
The composition of the ceramic used in the CODE 11.59 is kept a trade secret, but it is undeniably zirconium oxide and some kind of binder. After hardening under high pressure, it is pre-machined using a 5-axis CNC and sintered at approximately 1400°C. At this stage, the binder components are burned off, and the caseband, which has gained hardness, shrinks considerably compared to before sintering. From here, the faceting and surface finishing are done with diamond tools. The satin finish and angled polishing on the sides are machined up until the pre-processing stage, but the final finishing is done by hand.
The new chronograph features a black ceramic middle case. Available in either 18K Gold or 18K White Gold, the dial color is a consistent smoke gray lacquer finish. However, the base treatment is different from last year's release of the same color. For the gold case, the dial base is finished with a fine sunburst satin finish, followed by a silver-plated base. A translucent light smoke finish is applied on top, creating a dark gradient. The Zapon top coat is quite thick, creating a transparent appearance that doesn't overpower the sunburst base. In contrast, the new chronograph features a vertical hairline stripe base, which is quite bold. The Zapon is thinner, allowing the satin finish to stand out more. The gold case exudes luxury, while the new gold and ceramic model exudes a sporty feel. The rubber strap with a canvas-like finish also enhances the street style.
Experience the factory tour that produces CODE 11.59 with the latest VR technology
Audemars Piguet's headquarters and workshop are responsible for a variety of products, including the CODE 11.59. Located deep in the mountains of Le Brassus in the Vallée de Joux in Switzerland, this factory combines traditional techniques with the latest technology. In this current situation where movement is severely restricted, we take a simulated trip to learn about the development and appeal of the CODE 11.59.
Venue: Audemars Piguet Boutique Ginza / B1F, 6-5-13 Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Screening time: Approximately 5 minutes 30 seconds
Inquiries: Audemars Piguet Tel. 03-6830-0788
·Official site
https://www.audemarspiguet.com
・Japan-specific content
https://borninlebrassus.audemarspiguet.com
https://borninlebrassus.audemarspiguet.com/event01/
http://www.webchronos.net/features/62455/
http://www.webchronos.net/features/56566/
http://www.webchronos.net/news/62600/
