Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel 26396BC vs Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC

In-Depth Comparison

The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel 26396BC and the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Audemars Piguet and Audemars Piguet is a brand that needs no introduction. Comparing two models from the same manufacturer comes down to purpose, design philosophy, and intended use case. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Code 11.59 reference was introduced in 2023, while this Code 11.59 reference debuted in 2019. The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel 26396BC is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel 26396BC beats the Audemars Piguet 4309 caliber offering a 60-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 30 jewels. The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC is powered by the Audemars Piguet 4401 with a 70-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 40 jewels. The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC wins on power reserve with a 10-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel 26396BC features a 41.0mm case at 12.0mm thick with a 49.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in 18K White Gold. The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC comes in at 41.0mm and 12.5mm thick with 49.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from 18K White Gold. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 108g, the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel 26396BC uses a Sapphire crystal paired with a Fixed polished bezel, while the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC features Sapphire crystal with a Fixed polished bezel. On the wrist, the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel 26396BC comes on a Leather strap with alligator with AP fold-over clasp, while the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC is fitted with Leather strap with alligator featuring AP fold-over clasp.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel 26396BC is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC to 30m / 98ft. Both watches share the same water resistance rating, making them equally suited for aquatic activities.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel 26396BC lists for $69,000 compared to $42,500 for the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC. The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $26,500 at retail. On the secondary market, the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel 26396BC trades around $63,000 while the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC commands approximately $38,000.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Starwheel 26396BC and the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For value-conscious buyers, the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Chronograph 26393BC delivers excellent quality at a lower price point. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.