Since its launch in 2019, the Code 11:59 by Audemars Piguet has focused on white and pink gold materials—a luxe touch to a case design that was complex, dynamic and contemporary. Now, the Le Brassus manufacture introduces subtle refinements to the collection heralded by six new references in steel.
They come in two references—a time-and-date and a three-register chronograph—of three colours each: green, dark blue (actually ‘Blue Nuit, Nuage 50’, a Royal Oak signature shade) and smoked beige. The references of the latter colour have black ceramic middle cases, lending an added air of modern sportiness. The dials are of a striking new design specially created for the collection: a ripple pattern guilloche texture with waves that seem to catch the light. The colours are applied via PVD, or in the case of smoked beige by a galvanic process that leaves it darker at the edges for a smoked effect. The movements within are current-generation self-winding mainstays from the manufacture: Calibre 4302 for time-and-date, and Calibre 4401 for chronograph; the latter is an integrated flyback chronograph movement with a column wheel. Both have patented mechanisms that improve precision and stability when setting the time.
Although the core identity of the Code 11:59 by Audemars Piguet is preserved in the 41mm diameter cases—an octagonal middle section adding an architectural touch to a traditional round case, uniquely profiled sapphire, and openwork lugs—these new references debut subtle changes that mark an evolution to the collection’s design. The hour markers, in polished white gold to contrast the dial, have been elongated for elegance and readability. Arabic numerals have been dropped entirely. The inner bezel has been widened and made more shallow, a second scale has been added, and the crown is slimmer and more rounded with more prominent indents. Overall, and taken together with the new dial colours, the new Code 11:59 by Audemars Piguet references are somewhat sportier and more laidback. Emphasis has also been placed on its contemporary appeal—all the while showcasing the traditional haute horlogerie craftsmanship for which the manufacture Audemars Piguet is renowned. Confirming this new demeanour are the straps: they are leather-backed rubber with a fabric-like texture, in colours that match the dials.
