Review
christianch's review of the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Starwheel in rose gold and black ceramic offers a rare, firsthand look at a highly coveted timepiece. This article delves into the aesthetic nuances and wearing experience of this unique complication, providing valuable insights for collectors considering this distinctive reference. His personal journey of acquiring this watch for a milestone birthday adds a compelling narrative to its horological significance.
Dear All,
As I am soon celebrating my 50th Birthday β and to be honest I had already got a watch for that πβ something a bit unexpected happened. The local Audemars Piguet boutique informed me that, given the special occasion, they managed to allocate one of the new Rose Gold CODE 11.59 STARWHEEL to me.
I went to visit the boutique and any resistance was futile! π
I loved this watch since the release of the white gold version: the way it displays the time is special but very readable. In person the watch was even nicer than the photos β the black ceramic combined with rose gold is very light and wearable. A dream watch, a grail so to say, so I took it home.
Without further suspense here are some fresh photos straight out of the boutique:
[photos]
The black aventurine dial is something else. The pink gold centre wheel and numerals echo the 18-carat pink gold seconds hand while the three black hour discs match the inner bezel. At 41mm in black ceramic it wears beautifully β light and comfortable.
Truly an amazing watch. Super happy about it. The service at the boutique was also truly amazing π
Thanks for watching!
Christian
The CODE 11.59 Starwheel represents Audemars Piguet's bold departure from their Royal Oak legacy, introducing contemporary round case architecture in 2019. This collection marked the manufacture's most significant design pivot in decades, establishing a new visual language that honors traditional watchmaking while embracing modern aesthetics. The Starwheel complication within this series demonstrates AP's commitment to horological innovation beyond their iconic octagonal designs.
The starwheel mechanism displays time through a distinctive rotating disc system, where numbered satellites traverse apertures to indicate hours and minutes. Reference 15212NR features a rose gold case with AP's signature multi-layered construction, combining polished and brushed surfaces across its 41mm diameter. The black dial showcases the starwheel's mechanical ballet through carefully positioned openings, while the peripheral minute track maintains classical proportions. This execution demonstrates Audemars Piguet's technical mastery in adapting historical complications for contemporary case architecture.
As a relatively recent addition to the CODE 11.59 lineup, the Starwheel occupies a unique position in AP's contemporary catalog. The model appeals to collectors seeking horological complexity beyond the ubiquitous Royal Oak, though market reception remains mixed compared to the manufacture's established icons. Production numbers appear limited, suggesting potential long-term collectibility for enthusiasts who appreciate Audemars Piguet's willingness to challenge conventional design expectations while maintaining their commitment to mechanical excellence.
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