Fake Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 chronographs use reference numbers that copy the genuine line. They also carry short factory codes assigned by replica makers. The genuine reference numbers start with 26393. Replica factory codes include APS, OMF, and ZF. The main tells are the movement, date position, dial printing, and caseback engraving.
Genuine Code 11.59 Chrono Reference Numbers
Audemars Piguet launched the Code 11.59 in 2019. The chronograph models use calibre 4401. Common references include 26393ST.OO.A027CA.01 (steel, blue dial) and 26393OR.OO.A002CR.01 (rose gold, silver dial). The case measures 41 mm wide and 12.6 mm thick. The dial has subdials at 3 and 9 o'clock. The date window sits at 4:30.
Replica Factory Codes
Replica makers assign short codes to their versions. For the Code 11.59 chrono, these codes appear in dealer listings and on plastic tags. Common codes:
- APS: Uses a clone 4401 movement. This is the highest tier.
- OMF: Uses a modified 7750 movement with a date overlay.
- ZF: Uses a decorated 7750 movement. Lower price.
- BP: Uses a 7750 movement with a closed caseback.
These codes change. Factories update versions without notice.
Movement Differences
The genuine calibre 4401 is an in-house integrated chronograph. It has a column wheel and vertical clutch. It beats at 28,800 vph. Power reserve is 70 hours. Replica movements:
- Asian 7750: 28,800 vph, 42-48 hours power reserve. The rotor often has shallow engraving.
- Clone 4401: 28,800 vph, 60-70 hours power reserve. Better finish. Found in APS watches.
Check the rotor engraving. Genuine has deep, crisp lettering. Replica rotors are often lighter.
Dial and Case Tells
The genuine dial has a two-tone finish. The inner section is lacquered. The outer section is opaline. The date font is custom. The '1' has a flat top. Replica date fonts are thinner or wrong. The subdial rings on the genuine are snailed. Replicas have flat rings. The case has brushed and polished surfaces. The lugs are hollowed. Replicas often have filled lugs.
Caseback and Pushers
The caseback has a sapphire crystal. Genuine engraving is deep. It says 'Audemars Piguet' and 'Code 11.59'. Replica engraving is laser-etched. It looks shallow. The pushers on the genuine are oval with a flat top. Replica pushers are often round. The crown is knurled. Replica crowns have coarse knurling.
How to Check
Ask for the reference number and factory code. Compare the movement to photos on the Audemars Piguet website. Check the date position. It must be at 4:30. Check the subdial spacing. Measure the case thickness. Genuine is 12.6 mm. Replicas vary from 12.8 to 14 mm. Check the pusher shape. Check the caseback engraving depth. Genuine retail is $40,000 to $60,000. Replica prices are $300 to $1,000. If the price is low, it is a replica.