Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar Watch

In the buildup for SIHH 2019, Audemars Piguet has been teasing a new release called Code 11:59. Theyve been posting cryptic videos on Instagram with various athletes and social media personalities wearing a blurred out watch on their wrist. Comments from AP on these posts eluded to a whole new line of watches, not just a new Royal Oak or Offshore model. Then on January?12th, Audemars Piguet announced their new Code 11.59 line; featuring 13 new references and three all-new calibers. These watches are exemplified by their 41mm three-piece case construction; with the center case segment?having multiple edges like an octagon. They also feature a very unique crystal thats domed from top to bottom but also spherically - this results in exceptional?visibility of the dial with little to no distortion. Specifically, this article focuses on the new Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar (Ref. 26394 OR.OO.D321CR.01) with a red gold case and beautiful?aventurine dial. This watch, instead of adopting a new movement, will use APs cal. 5134 which is also used in the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar.SpecificationsBrand: Audemars PiguetModel: 11.59 Perpetual CalendarDimensions: 41mmWater Resistance: TBACase Material: Red GoldCrystal/Lens: SapphireMovement: Audemars Piguet cal. 5134Frequency: 19,800 vhpPower Reserve: 40hrsStrap/Bracelet: TBAPrice Availability: $74,500 USD; 100 pieces AnalysisOn this model in particular, since its using an existing caliber, is all about the case and dial. The three-piece case adds a lot of visual interest to the watch with multiple layers and levels as you look at it, the lugs themselves dont extend down from the case back but meet it where it ends. The lugs are also skeletonized allowing some depth there as well. The crystal designed for optimal?visibility paired with a stunning?aventurine dial is the real show-stopper here, however. The dark night-sky-esque?dial will really shine in this application, plus the red gold hands and contrasting white printing should make it easy to read.ConclusionAudemars Piguet is calling the release of the Code 11.59 collection the most significant since they released the Royal Oak in 1972. That may prove to be true, but one thing is apparent, AP wanted to be seen as looking forward. These watches all have a distinct modern bend to them - Ive always thought that Royal Oaks, more so than other Genta designs, had a very modern appeal, and the Code 11.59 pieces take this to another level. We will bring you more details when we visit Audemars Piguet during SIHH 2019 and see the collection hands-on. The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar will be available for $74,500 in an edition of 100 pieces. For additional information keep an eye here and?visitFollow our pre-, post-, and live SIHH 2019 coverage here and on social media. [...]