Code - Genuine Thoughts?

[chiscott_29]

At the boutique today, high on my list was to actually check out the Code 11:59 in the flesh.

I have to admit I walked away mostly impressed with the Selfwinding and the Chronos. In fact, the black dial white gold chrono was actually quite beautiful and I could see myself as a possible owner one day. The movement in particular was rather striking, albeit IMHO it doesn’t quite rival Lange or most Patek complications.

So, outside of the terrible name and perhaps some uninspired marketing, why the hate on these watches? Is it just the fact that they’re new? Something else?

I get the feeling there isn’t a lot of hate on here for the Code, and most of that negativity comes from self-proclaimed “influencers”. I genuinely am interested in hearing people’s opinions. Particularly, those of you that are not a fan.


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[subtona]

For me, Nothing appealing about the line up.

Epic Fail.

[Superburrito]

I don't dislike them, but if I wanted a dress watch I would go with another brand like PP or Lange. Maybe I'll change my mind if some better variations are released.

[benlee]

It's probably not deserving of so much hate but overall, this CODE series is a big flop for AP. I can count by the fingers on one hand who has purchased them, including 2 in here. I have barely seen them featured on social media or blogs. Not all hope is loss though. They can re-introduce new dials and makes it more appealing.

[gusmac]

Originally Posted by benlee

It's probably not deserving of so much hate but overall, this CODE series is a big flop for AP. I can count by the fingers on one hand who has purchased them, including 2 in here. I have barely seen them featured on social media or blogs. Not all hope is loss though. They can re-introduce new dials and makes it more appealing.

Just as Ben says, I think there will be more to come. Expect some changes.

[chiscott_29]

Originally Posted by Superburrito

I don't dislike them, but if I wanted a dress watch I would go with another brand like PP or Lange. Maybe I'll change my mind if some better variations are released.

I think that’s a very accurate assessment. While I appreciated the Code and saw some good characteristics and certainly would wear a couple of them, I asked myself would I rather have this, or an ALS 1815 Chrono? I think that’s a no-brainer.

Maybe it’s this reality that brings out the overall issues the Code has seen.


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[fullofboats]

The “hate” is exaggerated and overall it’s a great watch, especially the chrono. The curved glass and new movement are awesome IMO. Issue is at +$40k there are so many better options out there and compared to the RO the code was never going to live up to the hype

I’m also expecting some new code models soon. Let’s see.

[Swaye]

Already been stated but the issue is at that price point you can have a PP, ALS or FPJ. All vastly superior watches imho.

[subtona]

11:59 Pic just popped up on ig feed...
Before I realized what i was looking at, my reaction was choking back vomit.

Maybe it’s not exaggerated?

Maybe the marketing strategy is to set the bar so low that each subsequent trivial change or update will cause a buzz?

[maciej]

It photographs very poorly, but in person the quality and craftsmanship is impressive. It's a great piece and wears very nicely on the wrist in my opinion. I'd get one if I had a reason to wear it, but between what I currently have and other things in the pipeline, it just wouldn't get wrist time.

[Swaye]

Originally Posted by subtona

11:59 Pic just popped up on ig feed...
Before I realized what i was looking at, my reaction was choking back vomit.

Maybe it’s not exaggerated?

Maybe the marketing strategy is to set the bar so low that each subsequent trivial change or update will cause a buzz?

[1William]

I believe expectations were high and delivery is low. Poor marketing and too many models. They could have and should have done better.

[RolexZen]

Originally Posted by subtona

11:59 Pic just popped up on ig feed...
Before I realized what i was looking at, my reaction was choking back vomit.

Maybe it’s not exaggerated?

Literally an exaggerated reaction.

[AK797]

Had a quick look yesterday and they just look flat to me, dial and hands and numerals are all a bit generic and uninspiring, not enough unique identity, unlike the Gentas.

[HK Islandboy]

I don’t hate the line, but if they weren’t APs, I wouldn’t have given them a second look

[pain888]

I tried the Code last thursday. It looks amazing and comfortable on the wrist. SA keep pushing the code like no tomorrow. She told me theres a new 2020 dial coming soon..
They call It Smoke Dial. will wait and see

[chiscott_29]

Originally Posted by pain888

I tried the Code last thursday. It looks amazing and comfortable on the wrist. SA keep pushing the code like no tomorrow. She told me theres a new 2020 dial coming soon..
They call It Smoke Dial. will wait and see

I also got the sense that something major is coming soon. Ceramic, maybe?

If they do somehow hit a home run on the Code later this year, I wonder how that's going to play out. Based on the comments here, if the line starts with current Code owners, it should at least be a short line.

[chiscott_29]

Originally Posted by HK Islandboy

I don’t hate the line, but if they weren’t APs, I wouldn’t have given them a second look

There's something eerily accurate about this line...

That said, I still maintain it's a fine watch, but they've created a tough and critical group of customers. The bar is high and ultimately they will need to execute.

[Burlington]

Originally Posted by HK Islandboy

I don’t hate the line, but if they weren’t APs, I wouldn’t have given them a second look

I think also the fact they are AP - the expectations for another unique format á la RO was very much the hope.

Maybe they can turn it into this still, but would need some work.

[subtona]

Maybe the new year surprise will be a public mea culpa?

[V25V]

It looks like a Michael Kors, nuff said. The "hate" is well founded but I would categorize it more like utter disappointment in the brand for its release, it's not worthy of the brand it was.


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[maciej]

Originally Posted by chiscott_29

I also got the sense that something major is coming soon. Ceramic, maybe?

If they do somehow hit a home run on the Code later this year, I wonder how that's going to play out. Based on the comments here, if the line starts with current Code owners, it should at least be a short line.

New dial colors and two tone version coming.

[RolexZen]

What is a Michael Kors?

[roeezion]

Recently went to try this watch on in a local boutique. Was really impressed with the construction and finishing of the case and especially the crystal. the new movements as well seem like a really positive update for AP. I do agree that the dial lacks some spark but hopefully they will have an updated dial in the near future. Biggest factor when deciding would be thinking about everything else you could scoop up out there at this price range.

[Fort Rolex]

Agree w the consensus that it’s a failure until they fix the dial and I expect they will as the line progresses. I think the only one I don’t hate and actually genuinely like is the minute repeater version. Name doesn’t make or break a watch but it’s pretty bad

Random but it stuck with me was how Francois was making a big deal about “Audemars Piguet” being applied on the dial as opposed to printed like its some jaw dropping detail. It’s great but cmon guy

For now it’s a failure but they can absolutely make it a hit. Case and movement are awesome

[Reign]

I fall into the minority but love mine. The case construction is top notch. I’m genuinely looking forward to the new TT, dials and materials. I’m really hoping for an openwork non tourbillon like the 15407 at some point




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[V25V]

Originally Posted by RolexZen

What is a Michael Kors?

Fashion brand. Some compare them to Daniel Wellington as well, which I think is accurate.




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[PJ S]

Originally Posted by RolexZen

What is a Michael Kors?

Presumably you know how to use the internet to find information on stuff you don’t know about?

[Bearxj86]

I personally enjoy mine. Own it along with my royal oak and offshore for a nice 3 piece AP trio....




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[RolexZen]

Originally Posted by PJ S

Presumably you know how to use the internet to find information on stuff you don’t know about?

I’m scared of blind searching the internet. I got Rick Astley’d once.