The Art of Time: Audemars Piguet’s Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph Openworked
The release of the new Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph Openworked is a resounding testament to the brand’s enduring commitment to horological mastery and avant-garde design. This latest iteration of the Code 11.59, housed in a striking 41 mm case, marries high-tech ceramic with opulent 18-carat white gold, presenting a sophisticated duality that is both modern and timeless.
A Symphony of Design and Precision
At first glance, the Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph Openworked captivates with its daring use of materials and architectural elegance. Measuring 41 mm in diameter and 13.8 mm in height, the case harmoniously blends 18-carat white gold with black ceramic. This dual-tone construction not only enhances the watch’s visual appeal but also speaks to the brand’s relentless pursuit of technical excellence. The bezel, lugs, pushers, and case back are crafted from lustrous 18k white gold, while the middle case and crown are rendered in high-tech black ceramic, providing a robust and lightweight frame for this complex timepiece.
The openworked dial, a hallmark of Audemars Piguet’s artistry, reveals the intricate mechanics of the Calibre 2952. The black-coated mainplate contrasts beautifully with the rhodium-toned bridges, showcasing the movement’s geometric architecture and meticulous finishing. The semi-matte, slate grey inner flange, adorned with a white printed seconds scale, adds depth and dimension, subtly guiding the eye without overshadowing the movement’s intricate ballet.
A Case for Innovation
The allure of this timepiece lies not only in its complex mechanics but also in its striking exterior. The case is a harmonious blend of cutting-edge materials and classic elegance. The middle case and crown, crafted from high-tech black ceramic, lend the watch a contemporary feel, while the bezel, back, lugs, and pushers, all fashioned from 18-carat white gold, infuse a touch of traditional luxury. This interplay of textures and finishes highlights Audemars Piguet’s innovative spirit and attention to detail.
An Architectural Marvel
The dial of the Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph is a true spectacle of modern watchmaking. Openworked to reveal the architectural beauty of the Calibre 2952, the dial showcases an intricate play of contrasts. The black-coated mainplate serves as a dramatic backdrop to the rhodium-toned bridges, whose geometric patterns and meticulous finishing underscore the craftsmanship inherent in each component.
The semi-matte, slate grey inner flange, adorned with a white printed seconds scale, adds a subtle depth to the dial without overshadowing the mechanical artistry beneath. The hour and minute hands, crafted from 18-carat pink gold and fitted with luminescent inserts, ensure optimal legibility, even in low-light conditions. The central chronograph seconds hand, also in pink gold, retains a delicate balance with its circular counterweight, while the chronograph sub-dials at 3 and 9 o’clock, encircled by black rings with white markings, provide a functional yet unobtrusive complement to the dial’s openworked design.
At 6 o’clock, the eye is drawn to the one-minute flying tourbillon, whose exposed mechanics and pink gold balance wheel offer a mesmerizing glimpse into the watch’s beating heart. This feature not only enhances the watch’s visual appeal but also speaks to the precision and complexity of the Calibre 2952.
The Power Within
Beneath its stunning facade, the Code 11.59 is driven by the selfwinding Calibre 2952, an in-house movement that epitomizes the brand’s technical prowess. Featuring 479 meticulously assembled components and 40 jewels, this automatic chronograph with flyback functionality operates at a steady 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz). The movement offers an impressive power reserve of 65 hours, ensuring the watch remains a reliable companion through extended wear. The sapphire crystal caseback reveals the movement’s refined decorations and the dedicated rhodium-toned 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight.
A Strap That Complements
The watch is fitted with a dark grey strap featuring a textured rubber coating, a nod to the modern aesthetic of the timepiece. The strap’s robustness and tactile finish perfectly balance the refined elegance of the ceramic and gold case, making it suitable for both formal and casual settings.
Exclusivity and Availability
While not a limited edition, this extraordinary timepiece will be available exclusively at Audemars Piguet boutiques. It serves as a striking embodiment of the brand’s avant-garde vision, seamlessly blending tradition and modernity, form and function.
With the introduction of the Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph Openworked, Audemars Piguet continues to redefine the boundaries of haute horlogerie. This timepiece is not merely a watch; it is a work of art, a testament to the brand’s relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. Its combination of groundbreaking design, masterful craftsmanship, and sophisticated aesthetics ensures that it will be admired and cherished by connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.
In a world where watchmaking is often seen as a craft frozen in time, Audemars Piguet’s Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph Openworked stands as a bold declaration that the art of horology is very much alive and continues to evolve. For those fortunate enough to wear this masterpiece, time will forever be a captivating spectacle.
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