Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC vs Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011

In-Depth Comparison

The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC and the Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011 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 Patek Philippe are both highly respected names in watchmaking. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular CODE 11.59 reference was introduced in 2019, while this Grand Complications reference debuted in 2015. The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 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 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC beats the AP 2948 caliber offering a 65-hour power reserve running at 21,600 vph with 25 jewels. The Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011 is powered by the Patek Philippe CHR 29-535 PS with a 65-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 30 jewels. Both watches offer identical power reserves, making them equally practical for daily rotation.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC features a 41.0mm case at 11.8mm thick with a 47.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in 18k White Gold. The Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011 comes in at 41.0mm and 11.5mm thick with 47.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from 950 Platinum. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 90g, the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC uses a Double-curved sapphire crystal paired with a Fixed, octagonal within round case bezel, while the Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011 features Sapphire crystal with a Fixed, stepped bezel. On the wrist, the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC comes on a Blue alligator leather strap with AP folding clasp in white gold, while the Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011 is fitted with Blue alligator leather strap featuring Fold-over clasp in 950 platinum.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011 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 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC lists for $193,000 compared to $240,000 for the Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011. The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $47,000 at retail. On the secondary market, the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC trades around $170,000 while the Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011 commands approximately $350,000. The Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011 carries a 46% market premium.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC and the Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For value-conscious buyers, the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked 26396BC delivers excellent quality at a lower price point. as an investment, the Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5370P-011 shows strong value retention. 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.