APF Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Super Clone Review – Reference 26393 Gray Dial Chronograph

Overview of the APF Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 26393

The APF Factory has released a Original Factory Super A Collectof the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Selfwinding Chronograph, reference 26393. This gray-dial version on a leather strap captures the distinctive octagonal-look bezel and openworked dial layout that define the modern CODE collection. For enthusiasts seeking the CODE design without the retail price tag, this clone offers a compelling alternative – but only if you know what to look for in terms of build, movement, and finishing.

Key Specifications

• Case: 41 mm diameter, 316L stainless steel with polished and brushed surfaces
• Crystal: Sapphire with anti-glare coating (basket-style glass as per original description)
• Dial: Gray with applied indexes, luminous hands, date window at 4:30, and subdials for chronograph minutes and hours
• Movement: Upgraded from stabilized 7750 to a clone of the in-house Calibre 4401 – automatic, column-wheel chronograph with date
• Strap: Imported Italian calf leather (plus canvas strap included), with original-style tang buckle
• Water Resistance: 10 ATM (100 meters) – suitable for swimming but not diving

Movement & Authenticity

The biggest upgrade on this APF version is the movement. Earlier clones used a non-column-wheel 7750, but the Original Factory Super A now features a replicated Calibre 4401 with genuine column-wheel architecture. This means the chronograph pushers feel crisp, the balance oscillates at 4 Hz, and the date changes smoothly. When comparing to a genuine 4401, look for the engraved bridges and rotor finishing – the clone is close but lacks the deep sunburst patterns of the authentic movement.

For a fake-vs-real check: inspect the date wheel font (should be bold and centered), the lume on the hands (superluminova-style on the genuine, but the clone uses a slightly grayer pigment), and the screw-down pusher feel. The genuine uses a double-locking system; the APF clone uses a spring-loaded version that still works well.

Who Is This Watch For?

This Collectsuits a few buyer profiles:

• Design lovers: You admire the CODE 11.59's asymmetrical case and octagonal bezel but cannot justify the $30,000+ retail.
• Chronograph fans: The column-wheel movement gives you a mechanical experience close to the original.
• Gray dial collectors: Gray works as a neutral that pairs with both formal and smart-casual looks.
• Researchers: You want to understand high-end Collectconstruction before committing to a different model.

It is not ideal for those who need 12-hour chronograph totalizers (the 4401 clone has 30-minute and 12-hour counters, but the subdial at 9 is a running seconds). Also, the 41mm case may wear large on smaller wrists – try a test fit at a local store with a similar diameter watch.

Styling & Wearability

The gray dial with silver-tone hands and markers gives this watch a contemporary, almost monochromatic look. It pairs well with navy suits, gray trousers, or dark denim and a white shirt. The black Italian leather strap adds formality, while the included canvas strap dresses it down for weekends. The 41mm size sits snugly under a shirt cuff, and the double-curved sapphire creates a slight distortion that adds depth to the dial.

For styling tips: avoid pairing with bright yellow or orange outfits – the gray dial will look washed out. Instead, use it as an anchor for steel-gray, blue, or black accessories. The chronograph pushers are large and easy to operate, making it a conversation starter at meetups.

Buying Tips & What to Check

Before purchasing the APF Original Factory Super A clone, consider these points:

• Source: Buy from established sellers who specialize in APF Factory watches. They often offer movement photos and QC (quality control) videos.
• Price range: Expect to pay between $2,000 and $10,000 depending on customization and materials. The standard model usually falls in the $3,000–$5,000 bracket.
• Check the serial: APF clones often have a laser‑etched serial on the caseback. Compare with authentic serial patterns – genuine codes use a 12‑digit alphanumeric format.
• Test the chronograph: Start, stop, and reset the chronograph. The hand should return exactly to 12; any misalignment indicates poor lubrication or a faulty column wheel.
• Water resistance: Even though the spec says 10 ATM, do not submerge it immediately. Have the seals checked by a watchmaker first.

If you have doubts about the movement finish, request a photo of the rotor with the bezel removed – APF uses a decorated rotor that looks similar to the genuine, but the engraving depth is shallower.

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