Yeah, it's not the most complicated model in the High end Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 collection, but it was definitely the most dramatic - - Openwork movement&contemporary architecture. A signature of Audemars Piguet since the 1930s, the brand has been skeletonizing its wristwatches for longer than any brands, and it definitely shows on this Ref. 26600CR.OO.D009KB.01. Although Audemars Piguet does not have a tradition of two-tone cases, A fleeting look does not do justice to the complexity and impressive craftsmanship invested in the Code 11.59 collection.
Non-traditional design
What might appear to be a round case with a thin bezel is actually a multi-faceted amalgamation of bold, juxtaposed architectural forms. A nod to the bezel of the brand's iconic Royal Oak, the middle case is octagonal and in 18-carat pink gold with a thick brushed band and polished chamfers. The contrast between the pink middle and the white gold bezel, lugs and caseback accentuates the sophisticated architecture of the case, which measures 41mm in diameter and is 10.7mm thick.
Multicolor look
Between the variety of colors on display - - from the rose gold hands and balance wheel, multi-tone white gold bridges and steel gears, to the rubies and the hypnotic movement of the tourbillon - this timepiece is truly enchanting, and I could watch it all day. Additionally, it also features a small dial in the form of a slate gray lacquered inner bezel that provides minute markings and aesthetically links the variety of grays found in the movement to the outer design of the watch. More so, the watch does not have all the same colors from the same angles. Look at the Code 11.59 Tourbillon Open Worked head-on, and it looks mostly like a white gold watch. Look at it from the side and the color mix changes dramatically.
Engineering Skeleton Appearance
If you are a crazy engineering lover, the skeleton movement is really quite simple from an engineering point of view, and here it is all about elegance in construction and decoration. The movement is made up of 196 parts and operates at 3Hz with 72 hours of power reserve. The Audemars Piguet replica has much more sophisticated tourbillon-based movements, but this version of the Code 11.59 is more of a modern dress watch, so a simpler decorative movement suits it. Legibility isn't bad, although the hands appear a bit on the short side and feel a little away from the peripheral minute/hour indicator ring that sits above the skeletonized movement display.
Final Speech
Overall, I have to say that I am increasingly optimistic about the future of Code 11.59. Because the thought there was potential in the design, and the latest releases have demonstrated that there is.
