Monthly Archives: September 2020

The self-winding chronographs Audemars Piguet Updates

A year after the high-profile launch of its Code 11:59 collection, Audemars Piguet has introduced a new range of references, including lacquered dial and a two-tone case. The new model covers the brand’s auto-winding date and chronographs models. http://www.givensale.com
The Code 11:59 collection was touted as the biggest AP launch since the Royal Oak in 1972 but received a tepid response from the watch collecting community. In response, the brand unveiled a new watch case design that highlights an octagonal frame that recalls the definition of the Royal Oak collection. In code 11:59, the middle of the case is an octagon, while the bezel and back of the case are rounded.
Among the 11:59 collection’s signature elements are the open-design lugs, whose upper segments are welded to the round bezel while the lower segments lean into the caseback. Audemars Piguet has introduced five new references with smoked lacquer dials bearing sunburst patterns in hues of blue, burgundy, purple, and light and dark grey in both the self-winding date and self-winding chronograph models.
The self-winding date models use a 41-mm case in either 18k white gold or two-tone gold variations. The two-tone gold cases are uncommon in the history of Audemars Piguet replica watches. The manufacture claims it made only eight two-tone models out of the 550 wristwatches manufactured and sold between 1882 and 1969. The blend of white and rose gold is particularly rare, with only one recorded in the archives before 1978.
The five chronograph references are powered by Caliber 4401, an integrated chronograph using a column wheel, vertical clutch, and flyback function, visible through the watch’s caseback. Both movements are equipped and finished to a “high quality” using refined hand-finishing techniques including “traits tirés,” Côtes de Genève, circular graining, circular satin, and diamond-polished angles.
The self-winding chronographs use the in-house Caliber 4302, an automatic movement with seconds and instant-jump date indications. The movement houses a 22k gold rotor that amasses for the movement a power reserve of 70-hours. All five timing references have the same case structure and share the same material as the self-winding date model. The replica watch comes in platinum, rose gold, or two-color gold case.