Audemars Piguet’s new watches embrace a rainbow of hues

(Image credit: press)

last updated 21 October 2022

Last year, Audemars Piguet’s unveiling of the new Code 11.59 collection made horological headlines when it joined other iconic watch families including the Royal Oak and Offshore as a permanent pillar of the brand.

The watches are recognisable for their unique geometric architecture, pairing an octagonal case with a deep double curve of sapphire crystal. This year’s just-released new additions continue the play with colour begun last year, adding lacquered hues of blue, burgundy, purple, light and dark grey in a rainbow accentuating the refractions of light from the crystal dome.

‘For each dial, numerous layers of lacquer are applied by hand on the brass dial to reach the desired hues of colours and sunburst effect,’ says development director Lucas Raggi. ‘A thin layer of transparent lacquer tops off the dial. The dial is ultimately polished for a smooth effect.’

Both the sunburst and smoked effects bring a tantalising depth to a dial which otherwise adheres to more classical design codes. ‘The effect of these lacquered dials convey light and movement, enhancing the watch’s numerous details through an ever-changing play of light,’ says Raggi. ‘The lacquer’s smooth finishing radiates refined nuances depending on the angle from which the watch is seen, while magnifying the details composing the dial.’

INFORMATION

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Hannah Silver is the Art, Culture, Watches & Jewellery Editor of Wallpaper*. Since joining in 2019, she has overseen offbeat art trends and conducted in-depth profiles, as well as writing and commissioning extensively across the worlds of culture and luxury. She enjoys travelling, visiting artists' studios and viewing exhibitions around the world, and has interviewed artists and designers including Maggi Hambling, William Kentridge, Jonathan Anderson, Chantal Joffe, Lubaina Himid, Tilda Swinton and Mickalene Thomas.