Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Starwheel: A Collector's First Impressions and Acquisition Journey

Prelude · 2023-12-23T15:07:32Z

Explore the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Starwheel through a collector's eyes. Learn about its unique appeal, acquisition challenges, and market insights.

Prelude

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

45 replies6061 views1 photos

Prelude's recent acquisition of the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Starwheel offers a timely look into the allure of this unique complication. His personal experience highlights the immediate connection collectors can feel with a timepiece that breaks traditional horological norms. This article explores why the Starwheel resonates so deeply and the realities of acquiring such a coveted reference in today's market.

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I had seen the watch in photos and videos.

Yesterday I had a chance to see it in the reality and it sings to my heart.
I am very very happy to become the owner of the
CODE 1159 star wheel.

At first I did not know how to read times in this watch but then I discovered the it is more easy to
tell a time than actual analog watch because the
Hours and Minutes just directly appears as numbers.

What I like the most about this watch is
I can feel the cosmos and universe on your wrist with star glazing and with never ending rotating
three flying saucers.

I believe I will cherish this watch for long long time to come.
Truly collectors watch who loves mechanical movements and something extraordinary rare.

On my own a great Christmas present for myself 💖

Key Points from the Discussion

Building a long-term relationship with an authorized dealer and salesperson is crucial for acquiring highly sought-after limited edition watches, especially given the prevalence of 'flippers' who seek quick profits.
The Audemars Piguet Starwheel is exceptionally difficult to obtain as a first AP purchase, even more so than a Royal Oak 'Jumbo' Ref. 16202, due to its limited production and high demand.
Brand clients with a significant purchase history are prioritized for rare pieces like the Starwheel, reflecting a common practice across luxury watch brands where demand far outstrips supply.
Despite extensive efforts contacting multiple boutiques globally, new collectors often face outright unavailability for the Starwheel, with grey market prices significantly above retail.
A long-standing relationship with an AP boutique, cultivated since 2007, and a history of purchases since 2001, enabled one collector to acquire the Starwheel simply by expressing interest without repeated follow-ups.
The Starwheel is praised for its unique, exciting, and unconventional design, offering a distinct experience compared to Audemars Piguet's more traditional octagonal models.

The Discussion

Aquaracer1

Dec 23, 2023

Enjoy! So is the time 3:20 in your photo?

MichaelC

Dec 23, 2023

Mine arrived over the summer and has hardly left my wrist. It is an exceptional timepiece. Nearly perfect, IMO. Unique, exciting, and very unlike the "typical" AP. I certainly love my octagons, but the Starwheel is a whole different kind of AP.

pfang56

Dec 23, 2023

Enjoy your holidays Peter

daveydogg

Dec 23, 2023

Michael, Curious how you got one; I've been to 5 different AP boutiques, in both the US and abroad, and contacted 10+ others via email. All responses the same - "not available, no stock for several years, don't bother even trying. However we will sell you a steel Code 11.59 in another model, if one is available. The Starwheel - forget it." I do see some available Gray market on Chron024 etc but 25k over list price... is that how you obtained?

daveydogg

Dec 23, 2023

Curious how you got one - I've been to 5 boutiques and all said "no availability for years, don't bother." Gray market?

MichaelC

Dec 24, 2023

I bought my first in 2001. I started working with an AP Boutique in 2007. I have a decent history with them, and they have taken good care of me. When the Starwheel was introduced, I emailed my sales associate to express my interest. I never inquired a single time after. I visited the AP Museum in June, and upon returning, received a message my piece was available.

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Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Starwheel: A Collector's First Impressions and Acquisition Journey

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