- Trying to find a place next to a watch as iconic as the Royal Oak is no easy feat. But in 2019, Audemars Piguet took on the challenge and launched the CODE 11.59 collection as the new generation “it” watch in their catalogue for the younger, more contemporary clientele. Steering away from the distinctive octagonal design, the CODE 11.59 family is framed in a traditional rounded case with sleek hollowed lugs, finished with a silky satin effect.

- The present example is a selfwinding chronograph, featuring a blue lacquered dial surrounded by a sloped tachymeter scale. Beautifully balanced, the standard 3-6-9 chronograph display layout is adopted with two slightly oversized chronograph counters on top and a smaller running seconds at the bottom, along with an inconspicuous date aperture that sits at 4:30. Adhering to the clean, simple aesthetic, all hands and indexes are long and slender, each tastefully executed in white gold and have highly polished surfaces.

- A sight to behold, the wearer is invited to admire the powerful in-house cal. 4401, equipped with a flyback function. With a single stroke of the button at 4 o’clock, this allows rapid retiming without the need to frantically stop, reset and start the chronograph. Furthermore, this movement focuses on chronometric precision and is designed to be worn without being wound for 70 hours.

- Full of intricate features, angles and reflections, the CODE 11.59 ref. 26393BC is an exceptionally well-thought-out timepiece, fitted with a great modern movement. Offered in excellent overall condition with its full set of accessories and an additional navy crocodile strap, the present example will certainly appeal to both novice collectors and Audemars Piguet loyalists.