Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR vs Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 43175/000P-B190

In-Depth Comparison

The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR and the Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 43175/000P-B190 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 Vacheron Constantin 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 Traditionnelle reference debuted in 2019.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR beats the AP 5134 caliber offering a 40-hour power reserve running at 19,800 vph with 38 jewels. The Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 43175/000P-B190 is powered by the Caliber 1120 QP with a 40-hour power reserve operating at 19,800 vph featuring 36 jewels. Both watches offer identical power reserves, making them equally practical for daily rotation.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR features a 41.0mm case at 11.8mm thick with a 47.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in 18k Rose Gold. The Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 43175/000P-B190 comes in at 41.0mm and 8.9mm thick with 48.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Platinum 950. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 95g, the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR uses a Double-curved sapphire crystal paired with a Fixed, octagonal within round case bezel, while the Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 43175/000P-B190 features Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal with a Fixed, polished bezel. On the wrist, the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR comes on a Blue alligator leather strap with AP folding clasp in rose gold, while the Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 43175/000P-B190 is fitted with Blue alligator leather strap featuring Platinum folding clasp.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 43175/000P-B190 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 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR lists for $86,900 compared to $120,000 for the Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 43175/000P-B190. The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $33,100 at retail. On the secondary market, the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR trades around $75,000 while the Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 43175/000P-B190 commands approximately $105,000.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR and the Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 43175/000P-B190 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For value-conscious buyers, the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Perpetual Calendar 26394OR 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.