
Wristwatches · Wristwatch
Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph (Ref. 26393CR), 2023
- Maker / attribution
- Audemars Piguet (maker)
- Date
- 2023
- Historical period
- Contemporary Horology (2010 – Present)
- Country of origin
- Switzerland
- Object type
- Wristwatch
- Dimensions
- Case 41 mm
- Stock no.
- Product 8321880031415
- Credit line
- Dealer listing, Huntington Company (product 8321880031415)
- Catalogue title (original)
- 2023 Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph - Box and Papers (Ref. 26393CR) (English)
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Record summary
Catalogued by Huntington Company (dealer) (stock number Product 8321880031415), this is a wristwatch by Audemars Piguet, made in Switzerland, dated 2023. The Atlas places it in the Contemporary Horology period (2010 – Present) of its Wristwatches collection. Recorded dimensions: Case 41 mm. The record is illustrated with 6 photographs.
Assembled from the source record's structured fields. Dates and attributions are given as the source states them; where a field is missing the Atlas leaves it blank rather than estimating.
Catalogue description
Dealer description — Huntington Company
History and Significance The Code 11.59 collection marked a pivotal moment for Audemars Piguet when it debuted in 2019. Rather than revisiting familiar ground, AP introduced an entirely new design language that blended classical watchmaking with modern construction. The case architecture is the defining feature. From the front it appears round and traditional, but a closer look reveals a complex multi-part case with an octagonal mid-case inspired by the Royal Oak, seamlessly integrated beneath a thin bezel. The reference 26393CR represents the chronograph variant in a white and rose gold configuration. The use of mixed precious metals gives the watch depth and contrast without leaning flashy. The vignette black dial adds further dimension, transitioning subtly from the center outward, and reinforces the modern character of the Code 11.59 line. Inside is Audemars Piguet’s in-house automatic chronograph movement, showcasing the brand’s continued focus on technical independence and finishing standards. Over time, the Code 11.59 has become increasingly appreciated for what it set out to do: establish a contemporary flagship that stands apart from the Royal Oak, both visually and philosophically. Writer’s Thoughts This is a strong configuration of the Code 11.59 Chronograph. The white and rose gold case wears elegantly and feels balanced on the wrist, while the black vignette dial keeps the watch grounded and versatile. It works equally well as a daily luxury chronograph or as a more understated formal piece. The open caseback and modern movement finishing add to the enjoyment for anyone who values mechanics as much as design. Our Promise Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. Each piece is offered in honest condition, ensuring collectors receive a timepiece that reflects both originality and integrity. Specifications Brand: Audemars Piguet Model: Code 11.59 Chronograph Reference: 26393CR.OO.A002KB.01 Year: 2023 Case Material: White gold and rose gold Case Size: 41mm Bezel: White gold Dial: Vignette black Crystal: Sapphire Movement: Automatic chronograph Strap: Black leather strap Buckle/Clasp: Audemars Piguet gold pin buckle Contents: Original box and papers Condition Case: White and rose gold case shows normal surface wear consistent with careful use. Overall, case lines remain sharp. Bezel: Bezel shows a few flea bites visible upon close inspection near 6 o'clock. Crystal: Sapphire crystal is clean with no visible chips or cracks. Dial: Vignette black dial is clean with crisp printing and well-preserved markers. Hands: Original hands in excellent condition with no corrosion. Strap: Leather strap shows light wear from use. Buckle/Clasp: Gold buckle shows minor handling marks and functions properly.
Historical context
Contemporary Horology (2010 – Present)
Silicon components, connected watches, optical-lattice research clocks and a thriving independent scene.
Smartwatches became the world's best-selling watches, while mechanical watchmaking focuses on craft, innovation (silicon components, new escapements) and independent makers.
Read the period in the timelineMore wristwatches from this periodEarlier: Mechanical Renaissance
Atlas type guide
Chronographs and split-seconds watches
A chronograph is a watch with an additional seconds hand that can be started, stopped and returned to zero independently of the timekeeping. Louis Moinet built an early example in 1816 and Nicolas Rieussec a recording 'chronographe' in 1821; Adolphe Nicole's heart-shaped reset cam (patented 1862) made the modern return-to-zero possible. Split-seconds (rattrapante) chronographs add a second hand that can be stopped for intermediate times; flyback chronographs restart instantly.
Chronographs were essential tools for doctors (pulsometer scales), artillery (telemeter), engineers and sport. In wristwatches, Valjoux, Venus, Lemania and later the automatic chronographs of 1969 (Zenith El Primero, the Chronomatic Calibre 11 group and Seiko 6139) are milestones.
What to look for
- Push-pieces on the case band or a single button in the crown (monopusher).
- Subsidiary registers for minutes and hours; tachymeter, telemeter or pulsometer scales.
- Column wheel versus cam control visible in the movement.
- Calibre markings of specialist makers (Valjoux, Lemania, Venus, Landeron).
Dating clues
- Pocket chronographs with heart cam reset: after 1862.
- Wrist chronographs: from c. 1910; two-button designs from the 1930s.
- Automatic chronographs: from 1969.
General guidance written by the Atlas editors about this kind of object. It is not a statement about this particular piece; for that, rely on the source record above and on physical examination.
Read next:Flyback chronographChronograph
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