FabR[Senior Patek Moderator]
26166
Thanks Micheal, I also made a point to see some Code models in the metal during the winter break, so to get a first-hand impression after so much has been said about them...
Jan 25, 2020,10:51 AM
Here's my brief reaction. I never opened a new thread in the AP forum, so I'm simply adding this as a reply to your interesting post.
Let me actually start by saying that, while I like many aspects of the brand, I honestly don't go often to AP boutiques, so my girlfriend and I were thoroughly impressed by the way AP treats everyone, even non-customers like us. This is always a major plus. My (entirely unannounced) visit lasted for over one hour during a busy holiday weekend, hence my sincere respect goes to the whole boutique staff for their patient and superb treatment.
We have since decided to remain regularly in touch via WhatsApp with the manager, so I'm sure more interesting opportunities to meet may come next, probably in summer.
We mainly tried two of their Code models during our visit: a time-only, entry level piece, and a skeleton tourbillon.
While in both cases I remain unconvinced about the dial design and the watch in general, the movement is superb, more than what I had a chance to realize from the pictures. Also, the work that went into the case, where the influence of the RO line is evident, is truly commendable and can probably only be noted in person. Any first impression of a "cheap-looking" watch -- which is very much a possibility from the pictures -- would definitely be inaccurate.
Will I buy a Code? Most likely not, at least for as long as I don't see a significant improvement on the dial presentation and other smaller details. But, as I believe that first impressions are important -- and it is possible to, in many instances, get a good idea of a watch from the pictures -- as you properly said earlier, it is also critical to take the time to study a watch in person before coming to definitive conclusions (both positive or negative). This is what I wanted to do with the Code line.
So here are a few pictures that I can share that we took that day. Note that the time-only model is also very good looking on women. Another small thing to be appreciated (and, alas, not always available with Patek for the random customer -- something in my opinion to rethink) is the immediately availability of different strap choices for the AP models. This is a simple detail, easy to arrange, but one that can make a difference in a purchase decision.
Yesterday they sent me a video of another model I should see in summer, I believe it's a new perpetual calendar with a mesmerizing blue dial. Maybe I'll post more on that as well on the AP forum
Cheers.