With the new line seemingly blindsiding the community, we are told that CODE is an acronym for Challenge, Own, Dare, Evolve with 11:59 being the last minute before a new day. While some of the criticism of the collection’s aesthetics is well merited, one that I feel is a standout from the lot is the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked watch – a visual treat for the movement.

The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 collection was introduced at SIHH 2019. Available in a number of configurations, all of the watches in this line feature a distinct case design with an octagonal mid-case sandwiched between a round top and back, paired with hollowed-out lugs. Reference 26600OR.OO.D002CR.01.

This model houses a unique hand-wound tourbillon openworked movement, calibre 2948, that conveys extreme complexity and depth. The contrast created between the 18-carat pink gold case and the dark openworked rhodium German silver mainplate and PVD bridges, exclusively designed for this collection, accentuates the movement’s artistry and 3-D effect. The gold-toned balance wheel adds a subtle touch. With 70 hand-polished V angles, the hand finishing on this 4.97 mm thick movement pushes the openworking art to new heights.