Audemars Piguet has unveiled the Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon in sand gold. This watch, featuring a 38mm case, marks the first time the brand offers the complication in this diameter. It showcases the ultra-thin Calibre 2968 (RD#3) movement, which was introduced in 2022 in small Royal Oak models. The watch is crafted from 18-carat sand gold and adorned with diamonds, offering a luxurious aesthetic.
The case of the Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon measures 38 mm in diameter with a height of only 9.6 mm and is made from 18-carat sand gold. This gold alloy, which combines gold with copper and palladium, gives the case a unique hue that shifts between white and pink gold depending on the light. The case is set with 235 brilliant-cut diamonds, adding to its prestige. These diamonds are carefully selected and cut to fit the geometries of the case, ensuring a seamless and harmonious composition. The case also features a sand gold and sapphire crystal caseback, allowing for a view of the movement inside. The double-curved, glareproofed sapphire crystal protects the dial and ensures clear visibility from all angles.
The dial of the Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon is sand gold-toned, achieved through Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD). This rich hue lends brilliance to the snailed inner bezel and the embossed pattern of concentric circles that radiate from the centre of the dial. Hundreds of tiny holes add depth and character to the design, which was created in collaboration with Swiss guilloché artisan Yann Von Kaenel. The dial also features an aperture at 6 o’clock that reveals the flying tourbillon, offering a view of the intricate mechanism. The hour-markers and hands are made from 18-carat sand gold with only the hands coated with luminescent material.
At the heart of the Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon is the Calibre 2968 movement. This ultra-thin movement, measuring just 3.4mm in thickness, is hereby making its debut in a 38mm case. The movement features a selfwinding mechanism and a flying tourbillon, which is supported only from below, allowing for an unobstructed view of the rotating cage on the dial side. The tourbillon cage makes one revolution per minute and houses the balance wheel and escapement, helping to counteract the effects of gravity on the watch’s accuracy. The movement also incorporates a new escapement that drives the tourbillon cage peripherally, improving energy distribution and enhancing reliability and precision. The rhodium-toned bridges are delicately openworked, creating a harmonious and symmetrical architecture that is visible through the sapphire caseback. The sand gold-toned 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight adds a final touch, echoing the case colour. The movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour and has a power reserve of 50 hours.
The Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon is paired with a beige alligator strap featuring large square scales. The darker shade of the strap contrasts subtly with the case and dial, enhancing their natural play with light. The strap is equipped with a three-blade folding clasp made of 18-carat sand gold and set with 42 brilliant-cut diamonds. This adds an extra touch of luxury and ensures the watch is securely fastened on the wrist.
The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon 38mm will only be available at select Audemars Piguet boutiques worldwide. The price of the watch is 188,300 euros but interested parties are encouraged to contact their nearest boutique for more information.
