Combining different shapes for the case construction is one of Audemars Piguet's areas of expertise.
The new two-tone CODE 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Chronograph features an octagonal middle case honed from black ceramics while the bezel, lugs and caseback are made in white or pink gold.
The middle case has been crafted in collaboration with Bangerter, a Swiss family-owned company specialised in the production of precision components made of advanced ceramics, tungsten carbide and other super hard materials.
The ceramic and gold components have been all hand-finished with the brand's trademark alternation of satin-brushed and polished chamfers while achieving the perfect alignment between their rounded and angular surfaces. This contrast of materials and hand finishing also brings an interesting play of light.
Calibre 4401.
Matching the case's satin-brushing, the smoked dark grey dial is adorned with a vertical satin-finished base, while the black chronograph counters and inner bezel further give depth to the dial.
The sapphire crystal caseback reveals the meticulously-decorated Calibre 4401, as well as components usually hidden from view, such as the column wheel and the chronograph's hammers.
The latest in-house integrated chronograph with column wheel and flyback function enables restarting the chronograph without stopping or resetting it first, with the selfwinding movement providing a power reserve of 70 hours.
Water resistant to 30m, the 41mm selfwinding chronograph is worn with a textured rubber-coated strap.
The case construction features black ceramics embedded in white gold. (Photos © Audemars Piguet)
