A New Beginning
The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 series has been around since 2019 but has never been as loved as the Royal Oak. As the brand works to develop new collections and designs of this series the variations change, each trying to gain popularity. This new design of the Code 11.59 Starwheel Watch is very unconventional and has crafted the signature case from contrasting materials, and a beautiful blue aventurine dial. A new beginning of this collection, and perhaps one that will meet with more desire.
Case and Point
This latest unveiling of the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel Watch features a 41mm case that is 10.7mm thick. The recognizable profile of the series is identified with the skeletonized lugs and octagonal middle case that has been surrounded by the rounded bezel and circular case back. A simple glance at this timepiece would have one thinking it is a very traditional circular watch, but as you take the time to clearly examine the watch you find it to be much more complex and quite an intricate design. This unique bezel, lugs and caseback on the timepiece are constructed from 18k white gold; however, the middle case and crown are crafted from black ceramic, and the octagonal design of the middle case features polished bevels and clean satin-finished surfaces. The clever use of white gold and black ceramic provides a great contrast with traditional and modern looks. The signature push-pull crown works in conjunction with the screw-on display case back to provide 30 meters of water resistance and provides protection for the dial with the very unique double-curved sapphire crystal. Unlike other double curves many are familiar with this one is shaped like a dome, but also vertically curved from 6 to 12 o’clock and the opposing directions create a striking appearance giving dimension to the dial that is quite striking. Offering a novel combination of materials on the case, the dial of this timepiece is what really distinguishes this watch.
Wanderful Dial
One of the most unique features of this new Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel Watch is the dial, and the way it showcases the time on the three-dimensional wandering hours display. The blue aventurine provides an exquisite backdrop for the tradition of the wandering hours on the Star Wheel watches. This complication has been re-invented in these new timepieces, really transforming the beauty. Looking in detail at these three domed black discs, each is crafted from black PVD treated aluminum and features four of the twelve hour indicators. Each disc rotates on an individual axis, and as the central module rotates with each hour, the current hour is displayed by the numeral on top of the dial. As you might suspect, the corresponding minutes are shown by the small black triangle next to the hour display, which directs you to the minute value that sits at the arc-shaped minute track at the top of the timepiece. The blue aventurine surface is quite the backdrop as the rest of the dial features are set in a more monochromatic tone of black and white, which compliments the case and allows for an elegant and eye catching display. The delicate seconds hand is set in 18k white gold and has a curved tip which just complements the domed profile of the other three discs.
Heart And Soul
The heart of the Audemars Piguet Starwheel Code 11.59 is the brand’s self-winding Caliber 4310 movement. An amazing 32-jewel movement that is comprised of 261 parts and a frequency of 28,800 vph, this caliber also has a power reserve of 70 hours. The movement is a skeletonized oscillating weight crafted from 22k pink gold and sits for view through the watch’s sapphire crystal case back window. The finishing of this timepiece is the textured black rubber-coated strap and 18k white gold pin buckle that features the brand logo.
Design Details
The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel Watch features such complex case design that you have to appreciate the aesthetics even if not a fan of the timepiece. While many don’t like the dial designs on these models, the brand has priced them such that they are significantly less than the tourbillon or perpetual calendar models. For those that are looking for a great combination of tradition and modern elements, this timepiece captures that design and provides buyers with a sports watch from a Swiss manufacturer who can provide more unique models and not just a cookie cutter stainless steel watch. Embrace the unique aspects and make a bold choice.
