The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Grande Sonnerie Carillon Supersonnerie represents a pinnacle of horological achievement, a testament to the brand's relentless pursuit of innovation and its mastery of the incredibly complex art of chiming watches. This timepiece, a symphony of engineering and artistry, is not merely a watch; it's a wearable masterpiece, a sophisticated instrument capable of producing a breathtaking range of sounds. Its price, however, reflects the extraordinary effort and expertise involved in its creation, placing it firmly within the realm of ultra-high-end luxury. This article delves deep into the specifics of this exceptional timepiece, exploring its intricate mechanisms, its unique features, and ultimately, its price.
Understanding the Grande Sonnerie, Carillon, and Supersonnerie
Before diving into the specifics of the Code 11.59, let's understand the core functionalities that define this watch's exceptional complexity. The terms "Grande Sonnerie," "Carillon," and "Supersonnerie" refer to distinct chiming modes within the watch's mechanism.
* Grande Sonnerie: This is the most elaborate chiming mode. It strikes the hours and quarters on demand, and automatically strikes the hours and quarters on the hour. This means the watch will chime the time autonomously throughout the day, offering a constant auditory experience.
* Petite Sonnerie: A simpler chiming mode, the Petite Sonnerie strikes the quarters only on demand or automatically on the quarter-hour.
* Carillon: This feature expands the sonic palette by incorporating a melody played on gongs. The Code 11.59 Grande Sonnerie Carillon Supersonnerie uses a carillon, adding another layer of complexity and musicality to its chiming capabilities.
* Supersonnerie: This is the unique element that elevates the Code 11.59. Supersonnerie is a silent mode that allows the user to switch off the automatic chiming function without completely disabling the striking mechanism. The user can still activate the chime manually via the crown. This is a significant advancement, mitigating the potential inconvenience of a constantly chiming watch in certain environments.
The Code 11.59's Architectural Marvel
The Code 11.59 Grande Sonnerie Carillon Supersonnerie isn't just about its chiming capabilities; it's also a showcase of Audemars Piguet's exceptional design and manufacturing prowess. The watch's case, while retaining the distinctive design language of the Code 11.59 collection, has been meticulously engineered to accommodate the intricate movement within. The complex architecture of the movement requires significant space, and Audemars Piguet has skillfully balanced functionality with aesthetics. The case itself is a testament to the brand's commitment to precision and craftsmanship. The materials used, often precious metals like platinum or rose gold, contribute to the watch's luxurious feel and substantial weight.
The dial, while intricate, remains legible despite the complexity of the movement beneath. The hands and hour markers are carefully designed to ensure optimal visibility, even with the added visual elements associated with a grande sonnerie. The craftsmanship evident in the finishing of the movement is another highlight, with meticulous hand-finishing techniques like Côtes de Genève, perlage, and anglage applied to enhance the visual appeal of the intricate components.