A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 vs Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR

In-Depth Comparison

The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 and the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR 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

A. Lange & Söhne and Audemars Piguet are both highly respected names in watchmaking. The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 comes from Germany, while the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR originates from Switzerland. This particular 1815 reference was introduced in 2017, while this CODE 11.59 reference debuted in 2019. The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 beats the Caliber L051.3 caliber offering a 72-hour power reserve running at 21,600 vph with 42 jewels. The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR is powered by the AP 4401 with a 70-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 40 jewels. The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 wins on power reserve with a 2-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 features a 40.0mm case at 11.0mm thick with a 47.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in 18k Rose Gold. The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR comes in at 41.0mm and 12.6mm thick with 47.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from 18k Rose Gold. The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 76g, the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 uses a Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal paired with a Fixed, polished bezel, while the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR features Double-curved sapphire crystal with a Fixed, octagonal within round case bezel. On the wrist, the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 comes on a Dark brown alligator leather strap with 18k rose gold pin buckle, while the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR is fitted with Blue alligator leather strap featuring AP folding clasp in rose gold.

Water Resistance And Capability

The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR to 30m / 98ft. Both watches share the same water resistance rating, making them equally suited for aquatic activities.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 lists for $48,200 compared to $49,900 for the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR. The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $1,700 at retail. On the secondary market, the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 trades around $42,000 while the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR commands approximately $42,000.

The Verdict

Choosing between the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 and the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Chronograph 26393OR ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For dress occasions and smaller wrists, the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar 238.032 is more versatile. 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.