254 Audemars Piguet Impressive and Precious, Code 11.59 Flying Tourbillon, Automatic Wristwatch in Pink Gold, Aventurine Dial, With Box and Papers, Reference 26396OR

Estimate: €70,000 –⁠ 140,000

Model: Code 11.59 Flying Tourbillon
Reference: 26396OR
Case Material: Pink Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 2021
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 2950
Case N°: MC2032Y
Movement N°: BC9431
Dimensions: 41 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Box and Papers

In 2019, Audemars Piguet, the renowned Swiss manufacturer, unveiled the Code 11.59 series, a groundbreaking collection distinguished by a remarkable case and caliber. The nomenclature of “Code 11.59” reflects the ethos behind its creation: Challenge: Pushing the limits of craftsmanship — Own: Embracing roots and legacy — Dare: Following firm convictions — Evolve: Never standing still — 11.59: The last minute before a new day. Within the extensive Code 11.59 family, featuring a myriad of materials and complications, the Self-winding Flying Tourbillon emerged as an early standout. Initially presented in white gold with a smoked blue enamel dial and rose gold with an inky-black enamel dial, two new models have lately joined the lineup, incorporating the shimmering beauty of aventurine alongside the elegance of enamel. The present lot, an exceptional example of Reference 26396OR, showcases a robust and elegant 41 mm pink gold case. The hollowed lugs, blending brushed surfaces with polished bevels, infuse dynamism into the overall design. The dual-curved sapphire crystal, impeccably executed, creates captivating distortions. Driving the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Self-winding Flying Tourbillon is the in-house Calibre 2950, a movement introduced specifically for this collection. A notable evolution in these two new models lies in the dial design, fusing the refinement of enamel with the shimmering effect of aventurine glass, creating a unique star-lit sky effect. The complex process involves hand-applying a thin layer of glass sand mixed with water on crushed aventurine glass, followed by heating at over 800 °C in a special kiln, repeated multiple times to achieve remarkable transparency, depth, and light. This particular specimen plays on the timeless combination of black and gold, featuring a black aventurine enamel dial as a backdrop for hand-finished 18k pink gold hour markers, Arabic numerals, and hands. The flying tourbillon cage, subtly accented in pink gold, graces the 6 o’clock position. Offered in unworn conditions, this watch comes complete with its original box and papers.