Swiss Haute Horlogerie manufacturer Audemars Piguet is pleased to unveil its first ever Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked model within the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection. Presented in a 41 mm case, this timepiece debuts the newly developed selfwinding Calibre 2980, replacing its hand-wound predecessor to offer an enhanced and intuitive user experience suited to today’s lifestyle. A testament to the Manufacture’s mastery in both openworking and tourbillon engineering, this latest in-house movement elevates the architectural elegance and contemporary spirit of the collection to new heights. Encased in a bold interplay of black ceramic and 18-carat pink gold, the watch’s two-tone aesthetic extends seamlessly to its skeletonised movement, amplifying its visual depth and allure. Blending mechanical ingenuity with traditional craftsmanship, this creation embodies Audemars Piguet’s uncompromising vision of contemporary Haute Horlogerie.

At the heart of this new 41 mm reference lies the Manufacture’s latest generation flying tourbillon movement: the selfwinding Calibre 2980. An evolution of Calibre 2972—first introduced in the Royal Oak collection in 2022—this mechanism has been entirely re-engineered for seamless integration into the complex, curved architecture of the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet case. Enhanced for refined ergonomics, it offers improved comfort and convenience for everyday wear. The flying tourbillon, housed in a rotating cage that completes one revolution per minute, compensates for the effects of gravity on timekeeping, while offering a captivating display of constant motion.

This timepiece builds on Audemars Piguet’s pioneering legacy in tourbillon innovation. In 1986, the Manufacture introduced the world’s first selfwinding tourbillon wristwatch, featuring an ultra-thin 5.3 mm case and a tourbillon cage weighing just 0.123 grams – still one of the smallest and lightest ever made. This breakthrough redefined the possibilities of Haute Horlogerie, paving the way for generations of increasingly robust and refined tourbillon calibres.

The new Calibre 2980 continues this legacy, combining traditional openworking expertise with the sophistication of an automatic movement. The transition from a hand-wound to a selfwinding mechanism marks a pivotal evolution for the collection – one that reflects not only mechanical advancement, but also a deeper integration between function, form and client experience.

Since the 1930s, Audemars Piguet has elevated the art of openworking into a hallmark of Haute Horlogerie, reshaping the boundaries of wristwatch design. During the interwar period, watchmakers kept busy by mastering skeletonisation, which evolved into a highly technical and aesthetic discipline – one that remains central to the brand’s identity today.

This latest reference builds on that expertise, revealing the beauty and finesse of the mechanism by removing as much material as possible from the main plate and bridges, allowing light to pass through without compromising structural integrity or performance. The result is a movement that appears suspended in space, offering a captivating view into its inner workings.

Crafted through a combination of traditional savoir-faire and cutting-edge manufacturing, the components are first shaped using computer numerical control (CNC) machining, then refined with electric discharge machining (EDM) for extreme precision.

Requiring 25 hours of manual work to assemble, the openworked Calibre 2980 showcases a striking multidimensional architecture with a hand-finished barrel bridge featuring six signature V-angles. Decorated to the highest standards, the surfaces combine satin-brushed and polished finishing that create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. The flying tourbillon positioned at 6 o’clock adds kinetic depth to the dial, evoking a sense of perpetual motion.

Now a distinct mainstay in the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection, the two-tone aesthetic combines a black ceramic case with 18-carat pink gold lugs, bezel and caseback. The warm gold tone extends to the bridges and hands of the timepiece which are coated with a luminescent material for optimal legibility in low-light conditions.

Every detail – from the architectural bridges to the suspended tourbillon – has been designed to catch the light from multiple angles, enhancing the watch’s sculptural presence on the wrist. The interplay of satin-brushed and polished surfaces, light and dark tones, as well as solid and openworked elements, creates a visual tension that is both contemporary and timeless.

The watch is fitted with an elegant black rubber strap featuring a textile finish and a soft calfskin lining for enhanced comfort. A pink gold three-blade folding clasp completes the look. This thoughtful combination of materials ensures durability while adding a refined touch, making the timepiece equally suited to formal and casual settings.

The Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection continues to redefine the boundaries of horological mastery, offering a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Each timepiece is a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence, showcasing intricate designs and state-of-the-art movements for today’s discerning watch enthusiasts.


Audemars Piguet is the oldest fine watchmaking manufacturer still in the hands of its founding families (Audemars and Piguet). Based in Le Brassus since 1875, the company has nurtured generations of talented craftspeople who have continuously developed new skills and techniques, broadening their savoir-faire to set rule-breaking trends. In the Vallée de Joux, at the heart of the Swiss Jura, Audemars Piguet has created numerous masterpieces, testament to the Manufacture’s ancestral savoir-faire and forward-thinking spirit. By pushing the boundaries of what is possible and building bridges between different creative worlds, Audemars Piguet has been able to explore new horizons and build an inspired community. The Beat Goes On.

Reference	:	26601NR.OO.D002KB.01
Functions	:	Flying tourbillon, hours and minutes
Case	:	Black ceramic middle case 18-carat pink gold bezel, lugs and caseback
Water resistance	:	30 m
Thickness	:	11.8 mm
Dial	:	Black inner bezel with opaline finish and snailed decoration
Hands	:	18-carat pink gold with luminescent material
Movement	:	Selfwinding Calibre 2980
Diameter	:	31.5 mm (13 ¾ lignes)
Thickness	:	6.84 mm
Jewels	:	32
Components	:	278
Power reserve	:	65 h minimum guaranteed
Frequency	:	21,600 vibrations/hour - 3 Hz
Bracelet	:	Black rubber strap with textile decoration
Clasp	:	18-carat pink gold three-blade folding clasp