The Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Perpetual Calendar, Now in White Gold (Live Pics & Price)

Audemars Piguet’s longstanding history of calendar watches is still very much alive with the new release of its Code 11.59. Although it is not the first time the QP complication finds its way to AP’s vision of a modern classic, this one looks exceptionally handsome, thanks to the starry sky background. In a departure from the bold pink gold version, here is the new Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Perpetual Calendar in white gold.

Since its launch, much has been said of the Code 11.59, mainly regarding the slightly mundane inaugural line-up. Not deterred by the public’s banter, Audemars Piguet has since expanded the collection with bolder and more exciting combinations of materials and complications. This includes such stellar pieces as the Grande Sonnerie Carillon Supersonnerie or the Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon with an aventurine dial. One of the other stand-out models revolves around the classical, romantic Perpetual Calendar complication, seen here in a new white gold guise.

In terms of shape and size, nothing changes for the new Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Perpetual Calendar. With its complex construction of an octagonal middle case set in an “exoskeleton” of lugs, bezel and caseback, the case measures 41mm in diameter and a very reasonable 10.9mm in height. Executed in 18k white gold, it has a slightly toned-down look compared to its pink gold sibling. The hollowed lugs allow light to travel through, and the virtually non-existing bezel gives way to a dramatic dial. The unusual architecture of the Code 11.59 is topped with a double-curved sapphire crystal.

That dramatic dial I referenced is made in dark blue aventurine glass with applied white gold indices and white gold hands. Spread across the dial are the indications for the perpetual calendar. The date indication, positioned at 3 o’clock, uses a red “31” for a touch of contrast. On the opposite side, we see the day of the week, and at noon there’s the integrated month and leap year display. The third central hand is not to be mistaken for a seconds hand, as it actually points to the number of the week printed on the blue-lacquered flange on the outer perimeter. The final indication, also made with a dark blue aventurine glass disc, is the moon phase at 6 o’clock.

This multitude of indications is driven by Audemars Piguet’s Calibre 5134, made in-house, of course. The movement is shared with the Royal Oak family, for instance, in this titanium 26574TI or the surprising white ceramic 26579CB. This self-winding movement uses 365 components, including 38 jewels. It is based on the enduring calibre 2121 found in the original Royal Oak Jumbo fitted with an in-house module on top. As you would expect from Audemars Piguet, it is finished to the highest standards and can be seen through the sapphire crystal caseback. If set correctly and kept wound, the movement needs no adjustment until 2100.

This white gold Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Perpetual Calendar is worn on a blue rubber-coated calfskin leather strap with an 18k white gold folding buckle. The strap has been given a textured motif for a more contemporary look. The price of the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Perpetual Calendar (ref. 26394BC.OO.D027KB.01) remains the same as the pink gold version and is set at EUR 91,600.

For more information, please visit AudemarsPiguet.com.