Following the feedback of many members of this group I followed my heart and purchased the CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar with the blue Aventurine Dial.
I must say it was not an easy choice - as others have shared, there are very polarising views on the CODE lineup, as it relates to design, value, and longevity.
But after reviewing some of the interviews and having a look at the future models - it became very apparent to me that AP is making a clear Long-term commitment to this model line, and will be bringing a lot of incredibly innovative and sophisticated models into this model line. This helps AP expand its reach certainly beyond the traditional Royal Oak line (which will always continue to be popular) but also gives them creative freedom to be audacious in new ways with the new CODE platform. As a family owned company, I imagine there is a real Long-term plan and commitment to make this platform even more successful.
Beyond that, I just think that the case is incredible. Putting it side to side with my other two AP Royal Oaks essentially shows how many more angles, surfaces, curves, and other details on the case are superior to its own models and on par with newer models from Patek and several independents.
Furthermore, I'm a huge fan of the Aventurine dial. It reminds me quite a bit of the starry motif on my Patek 5575G World Time (photos to be provided in the future) but this dial is comprised naturally from Aventurine - making it sparkle in many different lighting conditions.
Another interesting note - I also observe now how the watch sits in a very different segment than the traditional Royal Oaks. To put it simply - it's a modern dress/formal watch with a Sport Plus mode, and is seemingly more versatile than my other timepieces (in Patek, terms, I do feel a little hesitation wearing a Perpetual or WT with jeans, or a Aquanaut or Nautilus with a suit!). With the CODE my early observation is more versatility in this regard. Perhaps now I would reconsider jumping into "traditional" watch brands like Patek or Lange based on the right design features.
In the end, taking these notes into consideration, and yes, for
better or for worse - the expected bath I probably would take - I moved forward. It was clearly a decision from the heart.
And usually, what happens within the first few hours of acquiring a new timepiece, I tend to feel a little anxious on whether I made the right decision. But it was odd today - that perhaps for the first time in my collecting life, that I don't feel any anxiousness, any nervousness, or any urgency to divest
It's an incredible feeling for sure!!! And for sure, the treatment by the AP boutique has been second to none. What an incredible experience!!! Many thanks to all for hearing my journey and hope to share more soon...I get a feeling the next year will be even more special for AP
Peter