Audemars Piguet’s Code 11.59 Collection: Innovation in a Classic Design

21st August 2023 – Daniel Ives
Audemars Piguet logo

Though Audemars Piguet’s Code 11.59 collection was only introduced in 2019, it has established itself as an iconic name in the brand’s already prestigious legacy. A perfect blend of stylish innovation, precision craftsmanship, and designs steeped in heritage and tradition, this elegant collection is a modern marvel in the world of timepieces. 

Designed to match the stature of past collections, the Audemars Piguet’s Code 11.59 collection boasts an array of stunning designs. As its popularity continues to surge, these models consistently retain impressive selling prices, proving to be a lucrative choice for prospective sellers.

Find out more about this collection here, and its individual models, with the help of our expertise.

Sizes

Authentic Code 11.59 watches come in two sizes, based on case diameter. You will find them in Large, which covers watches with a diameter of 42mm or larger, and Medium, which covers watches with a diameter of 38 to 41mm. The majority of watches in this collection fall under the Medium category.

Audemars Watch

Complications

The collection offers a myriad of complications that are unique to the models made. Most Code 11.59 watches are self-winding, but a few are hand-wound in a recreation of the models of years past. 

Beyond this, each watch comes with a range of functions that differ between models, such as:

  • Hours, Minutes
  • Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds
  • Hours, Minutes, Centre Seconds
  • Minute Repeater
  • Wandering Hours Starwheel
  • Moon Phases
  • Flyback Chronograph
  • Split-Seconds Chronograph
  • Simple Calendar
  • Perpetual Calendar
  • Grande Sonnerie
  • Tourbillon
  • Flying Tourbillon

Materials

The most common materials used to create this collection include:

  • 18-carat Pink Gold (also known as Rose Gold)
  • Black Ceramic
  • 18-carat White Gold
  • Stainless Steel
  • Blue Ceramic

These watches may also come set with a variety of gemstones, including:

  • Diamonds
  • Sapphires
  • Emeralds
  • Onyx Stones

Ultra-Complication Universelle (RD #4)

Released in four variations and comprising 40 functions, the Ultra-Complication Universelle is as refined and masterful in its craftsmanship as it is unparalleled in its elegance. Featuring a “super-crown” which enables the forward or backward correction of the month, an astronomical moon system which accurately depicts the lunar cycle, and a perpetual calendar (as well as more besides), this watch offers its wearer the ultimate timekeeping device. A complex security system also prevents these watch models from being misused or mishandled.

Selfwinding

This series of watch models proudly states the method by which it may be wound. Selfwinding watches are powered by the movement of the wrist, making them the ideal companion timepiece for a statement watch enthusiast with an active lifestyle. Coming in white gold, rose gold, black ceramic, and stainless steel varieties, with some models even featuring diamonds, there are myriad options to suit every taste.

Selfwinding Chronograph

The selfwinding chronograph models in the Code 11.59 collection closely resemble their non-chronograph counterparts. The key difference lies in the added chronograph features, which enable wearers to measure time intervals with increased precision.

Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon

The Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon of Code 11.59 is as much a work of fine art as it is a timekeeping piece. The original black ceramic model of this make is a masterpiece in minimalism, lacking numbers in favour of a smooth face and sleek rose gold hands. Variations of this have since been introduced to the collection, including the smoked green enamelled aventurine dialled piece, complete with rose gold hour markers and hands.

Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph

Merging a chronograph function with Code 11.59’s Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon forms a captivating concentric circles design. This not only exemplifies the meticulous craftsmanship involved but also provides the wearer with an additional practical utility – precise time measurement. Limited to just 50 pieces, this current model is destined to be a coveted prize among collectors now and in the future.

Starwheel

This model was created with the intention of achieving a unique, modern take on traditional wandering hour complications.  The two-tone case combining black ceramic and white gold, and a deep blue aventurine dial reminiscent of the night sky, certainly achieves this in a smart, tasteful design. Three black PVD-coated aluminium wandering hour discs form the centrepiece of this model, drawing the eye even more directly to the middle of the watch face.

Perpetual Calendar

True to its name, the Perpetual Calendar models in the Code 11.59 collection showcase their remarkable features. These watches boast perpetual calendars, intelligently accounting for the varying month lengths and leap year cycles. The Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar model also includes the lunar cycle and week indication. Meticulously crafted for longevity, this model becomes the ultimate timepiece for any occasion, potentially serving as the sole watch a wearer ever needs.

Minute Repeater Supersonnerie

Utilising Audemars Piguet’s patented minute repeater supersonnerie technology introduced in 2016, the Minute Repeater Supersonnerie from the Code 11.59 collection excels with this remarkable feature. The inclusion of this technology adds chiming capability to its practical functions, ensuring clear and audible tones that make it ideal for those with busy schedules.

Grande Sonnerie Carillon Supersonnerie

Among Audemars Piguet’s most intricate designs, this series showcases the grand sonnerie complication, an exceptional feature in watchmaking. It independently strikes the hours and quarters without manual activation, distinct from the minute repeater function. The rarity of models with this complication is notable. From 1882 to 1892, only 28 Audemars Piguet watches featured a grand sonnerie. Its revival in pocket watches occurred in the 1980s, and the first Audemars Grande Sonnerie wristwatch debuted in 1994. The Code 11.59 Grande Sonnerie Carillon Supersonnerie proudly carries on this legacy.

Tourbillon Openworked

This limited edition timepiece stands out as the sole model in the collection to showcase exquisite blue ceramic combined with white gold, creating an intricate two-tone case. The blue openworked bridges and main plate, visible on both sides of the watch, mirror the case middle, showcasing the mesmerising architectural beauty of the piece. Limited to just 50 watches in this exceptional material, each timepiece is as rare as it is visually striking.

Prices for This Collection in the UK

The price of any one watch in the Code 11.59 collection will vary. When first sold they can achieve prices of £29,600 at the lower end and increase to £91,000 or more at the higher end. This is unlikely to be the case when selling second-hand, though prices for watches from this collection are expected to remain high. 

How much a specific timepiece will make when sold depends on:

  • The materials used in its creation
  • The presence of precious metals, such as gold
  • The presence of precious stones, such as diamonds
  • The complications crafted into the watch

It’s important to recognise that selling prices for watches are typically lower than the original purchase price, especially when selling through auctions where additional fees are typically charged for services rendered.

When selling an Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 watch to Burlingtons Ltd., our specialist considers any damage to the piece. Minor surface scratches are unlikely to significantly affect the selling price, whereas extensive damage will impact our offer.

Unlike auction houses, Burlingtons Ltd. will never impose fees. Instead, we offer competitive upfront cash prices, with immediate payment if you agree to the sale.

Selling a Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet

To begin selling a luxury watch in the Code 11.59 collection, or any other watch by Audemars Piguet, contact Burlingtons Ltd. today. We’ll be glad to book you in for a free, professional valuation carried out at your convenience in the secure comfort of your own home. All offers made are no-obligation, though we’re confident you will be happy with the price we offer.

All payments are made instantly, directly into your bank account, and we will not leave until you have received your money. Find out more by getting in touch or begin the process to receive the fairest value in exchange for your exquisite timepieces.