Audemars Piguet · APF Factory · men · mechanical watches · watch brand
APF Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 26393 Review: Black Dial Chronograph Leather Strap
The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 collection blends classic round cases with contemporary aesthetics, and the reference 26393 Chronograph stands out as a prime example. APF Factory has produced a that captures the essence of the original, featuring a black dial, leather strap, and mechanical chronograph movement. This appeals to enthusiasts desiring the luxury look and feel without the exorbitant price tag.
Key Specifications
- Model: APF Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 26393
- Case: 316L stainless steel
- Movement: Modified 7750 automatic chronograph, styled as Calibre 4401
- Dial: Black with applied indices, luminous hands, and a date window at 6 o'clock
- Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating, featuring a double-domed shape
- Strap: Imported Italian calf leather with tang buckle, plus an additional canvas strap
- Water Resistance: Rated at 10 ATM / 100m (marketed as 300m, but treat as splash-proof)
- Size: 41mm diameter × 12.6mm thickness
Design and Materials: A Close Approximation
APF focuses on precise case finishing and dial detail. The black dial boasts a sunburst texture similar to the original, with applied gold-toned indices that catch light effectively. The stainless steel case is correctly brushed and polished, though the crown and pushers may be slightly less crisp than the genuine. The sapphire crystal has good anti-reflective properties, but the double-domed shape is more pronounced than the authentic version.
The leather strap is supple out of the box, characteristic of Italian calfskin. Stitching is even, and the tang buckle bears an engraved AP logo, though the depth varies. A canvas strap is often included, providing versatility.
Movement Performance: What to Expect
The modified 7750 automatic chronograph inside is decorated to mimic the in-house Calibre 4401, with a skeletonised and engraved rotor, and bridges featuring perlage and Geneva stripes. However, the 7750 is a workhorse movement, not a of the 4401 in architecture—it is thicker and winds differently. It offers reliable daily performance, but avoid heavy water exposure; despite the claimed 10 ATM rating, most are only splash-proof.
Spotting Differences: Replica vs. Genuine
- Dial and Hands: The genuine 4401 has a 3-6-9 subdial layout with recessed subdials; the replica's subdials are flat and slightly thicker. The date window on the genuine is clean white-on-black; the replica may show slight misalignment or less crisp font. Lume on the replica is bright initially but fades faster and has a greenish tint, unlike the Swiss Super-LumiNova of the original.
- Case and Crown: The genuine 26393 has a sapphire display caseback with detailed movement engraving, while the APF version uses a solid caseback engraved with “CODE 11.59”—a clear giveaway. The crown on the genuine is signed with a raised AP logo; the replica's stamp is usually engraved and less deep.
- Strap and Buckle: The genuine uses alligator leather with a hidden folding clasp; the replica uses calf leather with a tang buckle—a distinct difference.
Who Is This Watch For?
This suits men who appreciate the CODE 11.59's design language but want an affordable daily wearer. It is ideal for those who love the black dial chronograph look, prefer leather straps over bracelets, and understand that no is perfect but enjoy a well-executed homage. It also appeals to collectors comparing factory finishing across different makers.
Styling Notes
The 41mm case wears slightly large due to the thin bezel, best suited for wrists 7 inches or larger. Pair it with a brown leather belt and loafers for a classic business casual look, or switch to the canvas strap for weekend smart-casual outfits. Avoid formal white shirts; the black dial and gold indices pop better against navy or grey.
Buying Considerations and Price Advice
Prices range from ¥2,000 to ¥10,000 depending on the seller and customisation (e.g., upgraded movement or strap). Always request real photos of the actual watch, not factory stock. Insist on proof of movement decoration and check the crown alignment. Water resistance claims are optimistic—treat it as hand-wash-safe at most. For a reliable purchase, contact USA WATCH EXPERT via WhatsApp.
