Audemars Piguet's Code 11.59 is now available in stainless steel

For the first time the Code series is available in stainless steel (with or without ceramic).

Launched in 2019, the controversial Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 collection has undergone some drastic evolutions over the past few years. Not even talking about adding every possible complication, the classic models - time and date and chronograph - have been improved by adding new smoked/gradient dials. But as of now, the collection is mostly available in white or rose gold, with or without ceramic trim. Not anymore, as we now have Code 11.59 watches in stainless steel, available in three hands and chronograph, with new dial patterns and colors making them sportier and more casual. 6 references in total, including 2 bolder gradients and ceramic elements. Let's take a closer look.

The first year of Code 11.59 was tough...the release wasn't as successful as expected, and the response to the watch wasn't overwhelming. The reason could be the rather sleek dials offered in the first models. Still, the watch itself has some very interesting features, such as a complex and stunning case (at least from the side) and reliable new in-house movements – including the long-awaited integrated chronograph movement . But the exterior isn't striking enough. Things changed when AP decided to spice things up with gradient dials, two-tone cases, or ceramic trim, enhancing the complex shapes of the cases. But all of them are mostly made of gold...expensive, heavy and too formal for some.

That changes this year with the introduction of the Code 11.59 steel model. Six reference models, offering time and date and chronograph models, feature new dials in cool colors and livelier textures. What remains is the shape of the case, which remains one of the most complex in the brand's portfolio. Consisting of stylized skeletonized lugs, an ultra-thin bezel, an octagonal case middle, and a curvature extending from 12 o'clock to 6 o'clock, understated at first glance, it's more interesting from the side. Now made of steel (for the bezel, lugs, and caseback), the finish is equally impressive, combining brushed surfaces with hand-polished accents. Models with beige dials add a case middle and a black ceramic crown for more contrast. Unfortunately,