The CODE 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Perpetual Calendar: A Timeless Investment?

In the world of luxury watches, few names carry the prestige and innovation of Audemars Piguet. Renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and groundbreaking designs, the brand has captivated collectors for over a century. Their CODE 11.59 collection, introduced in 2019, represents a bold evolution in their storied legacy. Among its standout models is the CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar, a timepiece that blends cutting-edge aesthetics with one of watchmaking’s most intricate complications. But beyond its beauty, could this watch also be a smart investment?

In this post, we’ll explore the CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar in detail and evaluate its investment potential using the Watch Investment Potential Score (WIPS) system. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer, this analysis will help you decide if this timepiece deserves a spot in your collection.

Introducing the CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar

The CODE 11.59 collection is a significant milestone for Audemars Piguet, marking their first new line since the iconic Royal Oak debuted in 1972. The name "CODE 11.59" stands for Challenge, Own, Dare, Evolve, with "11.59" symbolizing the final moment before a new day—an apt metaphor for the brand’s forward-thinking vision.

The Perpetual Calendar model is a highlight of this collection. It features a perpetual calendar complication, a sophisticated mechanism that tracks the date, day, month, and moon phase, automatically adjusting for varying month lengths and leap years—meaning it won’t need manual correction until the year 2100. Powered by the in-house caliber 5134, this watch showcases Audemars Piguet’s mastery of complex movements.

Aesthetically, the CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar is striking. Its case design fuses tradition and modernity, with an octagonal middle case—a nod to the Royal Oak—encased within a sleek round exterior. The dial, often finished in luxurious materials like blue aventurine (resembling a starry sky), adds a captivating elegance to this technical marvel.

Evaluating Investment Potential with WIPS

To determine whether the CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar is a worthy investment, we’ll use the Watch Investment Potential Score (WIPS) system. WIPS assesses watches based on seven key factors, each scored from 1 to 10:

Brand Heritage & Recognition
Rarity & Limited Production
Market Demand & Resale Liquidity
Condition & Completeness
Historical or Collectible Significance
Technical Complexity & Innovation
Long-Term Value Appreciation

The total score (out of 70) indicates the watch’s investment potential, with higher scores signaling greater promise.

WIPS Breakdown: CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar

Factor	Score
Brand Heritage & Recognition	10/10
Rarity & Limited Production	8/10
Market Demand & Resale Liquidity	8/10
Condition & Completeness	10/10
Historical or Collectible Significance	7/10
Technical Complexity & Innovation	9/10
Long-Term Value Appreciation	8/10
Total WIPS Score	60/70

WIPS Rating Scale:

7–30: Low potential
31–40: Below-average to moderate potential
41–50: Moderate to solid potential
51–60: Strong candidate
61–70: Elite or top-tier watch

With a WIPS score of 60, the CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar ranks as Elite or top-tier for investment.

Why Invest in the CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar?

Beyond its WIPS score, this timepiece offers several reasons to consider it:

Technical Brilliance: The perpetual calendar showcases Audemars Piguet’s horological expertise.
Distinctive Design: Its unique case and dial options stand out in a crowded market.
Brand Prestige: Owning an Audemars Piguet is a status symbol with enduring appeal.
Growth Potential: Its strong WIPS score hints at future value appreciation.

Visual Appeal

Words can’t fully capture the CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar’s allure. Imagine its shimmering aventurine dial and sleek, multi-faceted case—visuals that elevate it to wearable art.

Conclusion

The CODE 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Perpetual Calendar is a masterpiece of design and engineering, backed by a prestigious brand and a promising investment profile. With a WIPS score of 60, it’s an Elite contender for collectors and investors alike. While it’s still establishing its historical legacy, its rarity, technical sophistication, and Audemars Piguet’s reputation make it a timepiece with exciting potential.

If you’re looking to blend passion with profit, this watch could be your next great addition. As the CODE 11.59 collection gains traction, the Perpetual Calendar may well become a sought-after gem in the years ahead.