Audemars Piguet's latest creations expand in all directions, from complex models to basic models

Audemars Piguet is now popular among people other than watch enthusiasts. Its latest model in 2023 further emphasizes the fusion of the interior and exterior.

Audemars Piguet's new 2023 model aims to "combine interior and exterior"

　Following on from the movement, Audemars Piguet has now achieved in-house production of the exterior. While this is natural for a high-end manufacturer, what sets them apart from other companies is that they had a clear goal. Their goal was to achieve a high level of integration between the interior and exterior. The direction made clear with the CODE 11.59 by Audemars Piguet (hereinafter referred to as CODE 11.59) is further emphasized in the new 2023 models.

　First up is the Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date. While the company had previously released a split-seconds chronograph, this one uses the in-house 4400 series movement. However, this base movement was packed with mechanisms and didn't have much space. Instead, the research and development team, led by Lucas Raggi, took the extraordinary step of expanding the rotor axis into a circle and adding a split-seconds chronograph wheel inside.

　Rudge says, "This idea was adapted from the Universelle." Despite this, the movement is not thin, but by firmly fixing the chronograph axis, the hands are prevented from shaking. However, since the movement is 8.9mm thick, a thick "concept" case was adopted. In terms of the fusion of interior and exterior, this watch is comparable to the tourbillon of the CODE 11.59.

　My personal favorite is the newly added stainless steel version of the CODE 11.59. While it might seem like a simple change of material, the dial has been precisely pressed and the indices have been changed to standard bars. The hour and minute hands are also coated with "Genta-style" luminous paint. Additionally, the fringe around the dial edge has a textured surface. In stark contrast to the 18K gold version, which emphasized the thick lacquer, the stainless steel version exudes a lightness and airiness. The fabric strap also enhances this character.

CODE 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Chronograph
A new stainless steel version has been added. The dial and hands have been given luminous paint, and the corners of the crown have been rounded. The subdued green dial is made of PVD. It is very light and easy to handle. Automatic winding (Cal. 4401). 40 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 70 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 41mm, thickness 12.6mm). Water resistant to 3 bar. Price: 4,345,000 yen (tax included).

CODE 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Automatic
This model features a combination stainless steel and ceramic case. The fringe around the dial has been smoothed and sharpened to give it a different look from existing models. The dial has a plated finish to bring out the delicate pattern. Automatic movement (Cal. 4302). 32 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 70 hours. Stainless steel and ceramic case (diameter 41mm, thickness 10.7mm). Water resistant to 3 bar. Price: 3,465,000 yen (tax included).

　However, Audemars Piguet has not made this into a run-of-the-mill casual watch. The sharp edges of the dial, combined with the mirror-finished indices, give this watch a more casual feel. The graining across the entire case is also intentionally kept subtle. If the strap were changed to alligator leather, it would be perfectly suitable for business settings.

　This same careful consideration can also be seen in the new 43mm Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph. Unlike the previous model, which focused on the ultimate design, this time the focus has been on ease of use. The design is almost the same as before, but the corners of the crown and crown guard have been rounded off, and the straps have been changed to an interchangeable type. The details are impressive, demonstrating the watch's appeal to avoid damaging shirt sleeves and to look great with a suit by simply changing the strap.

　The movement is the same as the Royal Oak, the latest 4400 series. This automatic movement, with a large free-sprung balance for improved precision and shock resistance, is also suitable for sports.

　The black ceramic chronograph model is another Offshore model that has been designed with a bold design in mind. The design is exactly the same as the original 1993 model. The angular crown guard and crown remain the same. Audemars Piguet today could have chosen to make them rounded. In fact, the feel of the watch is a matter of personal preference. However, the fact that the design was left unchanged and made possible using ceramic, which is difficult to process, is what gives the Audemars Piguet of today its distinctive character.

　To be honest, none of the new releases are cheap, but I guarantee you'll understand why once you try them out.