Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel Tourbillon Guide

amanico · 2024-01-04T10:04:35Z

Explore the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel and Openworked Tourbillon. A collector's take on these avant-garde references and community insights.

amanico

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

28 replies6230 views3 photos

In this insightful comparison, amanico delves into the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel and the Openworked Tourbillon, two of AP's most modern and conceptual expressions. He explores their shared case dimensions and contemporary design language, ultimately articulating a strong preference for the Starwheel's unique originality and fascinating display. His perspective offers a valuable lens for collectors considering these avant-garde references.

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The marriage of the carp and the rabbit, you will tell me, and you would most probably be right. Except for one thing. Both are probably the most modern expression of the line.

Same case size and height ( 41 mm / 10, 7 mm ), same modernity. Different style and ways to read the time, for sure. But both looking " conceptual ".

Between these two, the Starwheel takes my heart, I must say. It is even more conceptual, more original, too. My kind of watch, to be paired with an Ulysse Nardin Freak, for example.

Black ceramic and white gold for the case, black PVD aluminium discs " floating " on the aventurine dial... Hmmm... There is something really fascinating with the Starwheel the Open Worked Tourbillon doesn't have.

If I had to go for one and only one AP, it would be a Starwheel. Now, I still have to decide between the Millenary in steel and this Code 11.59. I must say that surprisingly, the Code 11.59 attracts me a bit more than the Millenary. Because of its case which I like a lot!

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The Code 11.59 Starwheel is a significant conversation starter, frequently drawing questions from both enthusiasts and the general public about its unique time-telling mechanism.
While appreciating the new Starwheel, some collectors prefer the subtlety of earlier Audemars Piguet Starwheel iterations, which featured transparent hour wheels rather than the more dominant solid discs found on the Code 11.59.
The Code 11.59 Starwheel and Openworked Tourbillon represent a necessary and welcome divergence from the more traditional 'safe' dials initially offered in the Code 11.59 line.
For many collectors, the primary value of a watch like the Starwheel lies in the immense personal enjoyment it provides, transcending considerations of market value, rarity, or vintage status.
The combination of aventurine glass and solid discs in the new generation Starwheel enhances its visual appeal and makes it a highly attractive piece for many collectors.

The Discussion

dedestexhes

Jan 4, 2024

Starwheel all day for me!

amanico

Jan 4, 2024

2 for the Starwheel.

gadalex

Jan 4, 2024

Dare I say it: skeleton!

Not that it helps to compare, but I prefer the subtlety of the earlier Starwheels from AP with the transparent hour wheels. On the Code the wheels dominate too much for my eyes. I will add that these two models are a necessary divergence from the original 'safe' dials that were available on release. Cheers, Baruch

amanico

Jan 4, 2024

A necessary divergence from the original safe dials... Oh yes, my friend, I totally agree with that! I see your points on the openworked dial of the Tourbillon, too.

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

Jan 4, 2024

I must admit the starwheel is a conversation piece! It would be my choice as well

MichaelC

Jan 4, 2024

I have worn AP for 23 years now.

Oaks, Offshores, Millenary, Jules Audemars. Skeletons, ceramic and other materials, LEs. I have never had so many random people ask about what I am wearing as I do with the Starweel, and I have only had it since last summer. Most follow with "how do you read the time?", which is a quick and simple answer. Then the lightbulb goes off, and there is usually a "so cool!" remark. Honestly, I don't like the attention, but the Starwheel is a real eye catcher to a fellow watch enthusiast.