AP Code 11.59: Purple

[dauster]

Originally Posted by Nav01L

People tend not to like him for some reason, even people who know him fairly well I guess. He’s a very smart person, but his sense of restraint is limited. He doesn’t have much regard for anything other than his success, so he’s often enough perceived to be disrespectful to the tradition of the industry or even his brand. But there’s no denying he’s successful and the family seems to appreciate the money he’s making them. He’s also a very outspoken supporter of his people, which is nice, even though that seems to apply to design, marketing and management folks first and foremost.

Interesting didn’t know that... but then again it’s not like I know anyone that ever met him or talked to him... didn’t know watch company ceos are that controversial

[V25V]

Originally Posted by maciej

Considering how much you complain about them I’d have expected you sold all of them by now.

Like I said, it's inevitable.


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[V25V]

Originally Posted by dauster

Interesting didn’t know that... but then again it’s not like I know anyone that ever met him or talked to him... didn’t know watch company ceos are that controversial

It's was particularly his attitude about the, very overwhelming, negative response from the public on the code. This was just after they removed all AD's and went boutique only. He went on about how you have to see it in person to appreciate and all of us who dislike it are wrong. You can find the interview online somewhere, I found it repulsive.

I live in a major metro area and several AD's nearby. NYC would be the nearest boutique. Telling me I have to go on a 3 hour road trip to see something I dislike in person is absurd. There has never been a watch I see in photos that look worse in the flesh. However, there has also never been a watch I dislike in photos that all of a sudden is amazing in person. Come on..... it just came off very arrogant and really turned me off. Code is a bust and had they just eaten crow and taken it on the chin, I think they would have been better off. But I'm nobody and I wont play the buy this for that game, so what do they care.

I will however speak to the opposite of APSC, they have been phenomenal in my experience.


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[Reign]

Originally Posted by dauster

Interesting didn’t know that... but then again it’s not like I know anyone that ever met him or talked to him... didn’t know watch company ceos are that controversial

He can come off as a polarizing guy but I like him a lot. He vigorously depends his products and his people and has really consolidated the product line a lot since he’s taken over - country exclusives and no more person specific LEs, 39mm size is now exclusively 15202 territory, AP House buying experience etc. He’s also incredibly responsive as well to everyone and a classic C suite guy that wakes up at 3a and barely sleeps.

When I spoke to his reps at an event, he took a month and a half off a little bit after the initial CODE release because the press really wore him down (rightfully or wrongly) and got a ton of hate email.

To those that dislike him, you can flip all my positives above into negatives, defending his products to the point of possibly alienating people (CODE), refusal to release non jumbo 39mms. People may not like the fact that he’s not cut from the same cloth as the suit and tie corporate formal crowd that other brands adhere to but that’s just the culture that he’s instilled in the place.

Thierry Stern has his own stories too but maybe better informed PP people can chime in separately.

[Nav01L]

Originally Posted by Reign

He can come off as a polarizing guy but I like him a lot. He vigorously depends his products and his people and has really consolidated the product line a lot since he’s taken over - country exclusives and no more person specific LEs, 39mm size is now exclusively 15202 territory, AP House buying experience etc. He’s also incredibly responsive as well to everyone and a classic C suite guy that wakes up at 3a and barely sleeps.

When I spoke to his reps at an event, he took a month and a half off a little bit after the initial CODE release because the press really wore him down (rightfully or wrongly) and got a ton of hate email.

To those that dislike him, you can flip all my positives above into negatives, defending his products to the point of possibly alienating people (CODE), refusal to release non jumbo 39mms. People may not like the fact that he’s not cut from the same cloth as the suit and tie corporate formal crowd that other brands adhere to but that’s just the culture that he’s instilled in the place.

Thierry Stern has his own stories too but maybe better informed PP people can chime in separately.

I think where he clashes is that he’s not out to make friends, he’s out to make money. In a consensus driven country and an industry that still relies a lot on goodwill that was built and cultivated over decades, that kind of brash „us against them“ approach is bound to cross some folks sooner or later. As a result, he shouldn’t have been too surprised when folks in the industry and the specialist media didn’t really feel sorry for him when he seemingly hit a stepping stone. If you want to be bold about how you approach a soft natured environment, you may end up being successful, but don’t expect anyone to lead the cheers. In contrast, the Sterns appear to be much more diplomatic and you rarely hear a bad word about them.

[nosignalbmwdriver]

Hope nobody likes it so that I can pick one up on the grey market!!

Looks amazing!

[rockdrock]

Originally Posted by nosignalbmwdriver

Hope nobody likes it so that I can pick one up on the grey market!!

Looks amazing!

So far the new Codes are around $24k for the time/date, $2k cheaper than the boutiques. Let’s see how down or up they go.


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[dauster]

Originally Posted by Nav01L

I think where he clashes is that he’s not out to make friends, he’s out to make money. In a consensus driven country and an industry that still relies a lot on goodwill that was built and cultivated over decades, that kind of brash „us against them“ approach is bound to cross some folks sooner or later. As a result, he shouldn’t have been too surprised when folks in the industry and the specialist media didn’t really feel sorry for him when he seemingly hit a stepping stone. If you want to be bold about how you approach a soft natured environment, you may end up being successful, but don’t expect anyone to lead the cheers. In contrast, the Sterns appear to be much more diplomatic and you rarely hear a bad word about them.

Interesting topic... thanks for your insight ... where did he come from ? Did he come from outside the watch world ?
Edit for newbies like me this might be an interesting read, apparently he came out of the fashion world:
https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/liv...ry-bennahmias/

[nosignalbmwdriver]

Probably needs 2 years or so unfortunately

Originally Posted by rockdrock

So far the new Codes are around $24k for the time/date, $2k cheaper than the boutiques. Let’s see how down or up they go.


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[rockdrock]

Oh yes! It has been confirmed. I will definitely be getting a purple CODE. I am waiting to see the Chrono version to make a full decision.

I know Bennahmias may come out as a little eccentric or arrogant as some of you mentioned, but it really is true that you have to see it in the metal to appreciate the level of detailing on the case. Please, don’t mean to insult anyone. I read all the great comments on movements, CNC mills, computers, etc and I just don’t know enough to know how the CODE’s movements have been built but would like to plan a tour at factory and see the work was done first hand. Possibly in the works and I will be happy to share with you all if I make it.

In the meantime, I just love the open dial-no bezel, full on purple and sometimes black, and this red gold is probably the best in the industry for my eyes. Color combo plays so well and the case is stunning. AP Geneva gave me a loop and I kept analyzing the whole thing. I know I will take a killing when purchasing since it will drop 40% in value - my guess. But, I really just like it! On size, diameter is fine. The watch feels chunky in my hand but I don’t sense it after I put it on my wrist. Trust me, I know the feeling of having a hockey puck - I have a Tudor Bucherer Bronze!

A picture while in the sun.




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[dauster]

Originally Posted by rockdrock

Oh yes! It has been confirmed. I will definitely be getting a purple CODE. I am waiting to see the Chrono version to make a full decision.

I know Bennahmias may come out as a little eccentric or arrogant as some of you mentioned, but it really is true that you have to see it in the metal to appreciate the level of detailing on the case. Please, don’t mean to insult anyone. I read all the great comments on movements, CNC mills, computers, etc and I just don’t know enough to know how the CODE’s movements have been built but would like to plan a tour at factory and see the work was done first hand. Possibly in the works and I will be happy to share with you all if I make it.

In the meantime, I just love the open dial-no bezel, full on purple and sometimes black, and this red gold is probably the best in the industry for my eyes. Color combo plays so well and the case is stunning. AP Geneva gave me a loop and I kept analyzing the whole thing. I know I will take a killing when purchasing since it will drop 40% in value - my guess. But, I really just like it! On size, diameter is fine. The watch feels chunky in my hand but I don’t sense it after I put it on my wrist. Trust me, I know the feeling of having a hockey puck - I have a Tudor Bucherer Bronze!

A picture while in the sun.




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Is that a one off or do you plan to purchase more watches from AD/ HQ (since you are in Geneva)? Man 40% drop in value - I would really shop on the secondary market.

[eonflux]

Does that come with a bottle of Crown Royal, or at least a bag?

[westoque]

Originally Posted by rockdrock

I know I will take a killing when purchasing since it will drop 40% in value - my guess. But, I really just like it!

Beautiful watch and great attitude! Love that you bought the watch for your connection to it and not care much about aftermarket prices.

I myself liked the code and will probably get one. I was shown the Bolshoi limited edition one and is a beauty.


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[Reggiez]

Congrats!!! I really love it! Looks ������

[rolexfanforlife]

Looks stunning! So unique, I too plan to add the purple one day

[V25V]

Originally Posted by Fishrus

Don't think this particular reference is hard to get. Would be a great way to establish a relationship with the boutique too

This mindset really grinds my gears. Why is this a thing?


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[rockdrock]

Originally Posted by dauster

Is that a one off or do you plan to purchase more watches from AD/ HQ (since you are in Geneva)? Man 40% drop in value - I would really shop on the secondary market.

Good points. I don’t have an AP in my collection, so this watch will be the first - new. I am starting with this one for now and see how this goes.

By the way, I got treated like dogsh&t in both the Vegas and Atlanta boutique offices when I called them that going to this boutique was a real treat. The sales guy was super knowledgeable, brought Brut champagne for my wife and I with no commitment, a gentleman, and he brought a 3-D model of the CODE to explain the dial, glass, case and movement. He also told me there was a club of CODE collectors he would get me involved and would take me to the new museum. The experience was totally different.

Taking a 40% cut matters no matter what price point but I am personally a stickler in getting the paperwork under my family name and getting registered with AP. The US dollar is doing horrendous here with close to +10% but will get the -7.7% off from taxes. It kind of balances out. I also think the relationship with the boutique will open additional products and services. I am really interested in a factory tour, events, upcoming AP hotel, AP houses, and the new museum.




I really really like the Royal Oak 15202BC. When I go for the pickup I will see how this can happen but I am in no rush.

The sales guy did bring me a 15500 in black. Really beautiful and elegant but I thought that was too big and chunky! It did not feel right for me. Passed. I have tried the 15202 in the past and that was the right size.

But, I am not doing to lie. I have been tempted to get my brother to acquire this watch in the US from those online vendors for low $24K or wait till they show in the secondary market for low $20K like the 1st year run.


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[rockdrock]

Originally Posted by eonflux

Does that come with a bottle of Crown Royal, or at least a bag?

Hahaha! I know, right!


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[rockdrock]

Originally Posted by westoque

Beautiful watch and great attitude! Love that you bought the watch for your connection to it and not care much about aftermarket prices.

I myself liked the code and will probably get one. I was shown the Bolshoi limited edition one and is a beauty.


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Thanks, Westoque. I am def not a super high roller and know a loss is important but we know these things are not investments.

The Bolshoi must be amazing in person!

By the way, I really like the two tone versions too. It really brings out the quality of the case.





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[Reign]

Congrats on the impending purchase! The TT are def incredible, I have my eye on the white one.

I think we often get carried away and think of watches as ways to reallocate or preserve capital - clearly no one wants a huge hit when you’re putting so much money on the table but at the end of the day, these are objects for enjoyment so if you love it (which it seems like you do) then that’s all that really matters.

Rightly or wrongly, this piece will open doors for you if you go the boutique route. However, I would caution against expecting a 15202ST as your second piece. There are stories here and there about a good allocation but that is far and few and certainly shouldn’t be the expectation.

The marketing events will be bucketloads of fun once they restart, hopefully post COVID

[rockdrock]

Originally Posted by Reign

Congrats on the impending purchase! The TT are def incredible, I have my eye on the white one.
However, I would caution against expecting a 15202ST as your second piece. There are stories here and there about a good allocation but that is far and few and certainly shouldn’t be the expectation.

The marketing events will be bucketloads of fun once they restart, hopefully post COVID

Thanks, Reign.

Yes, the white one is super nice but really, really white. It looks like something you might have a hard time color coordinating but I guess so is purple. : ) Check some pics.

Also , I will take your point under consideration about expecting any 15202 - if it happens it happens.





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[Uros]

Congrats!

Looks very good on you, not everyone can pull purple watch.

Special edition cоde watches is where they shine and even much loved royal oak looks old (and it is:)). Latest Iteration show it has its potential...


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[dauster]

Originally Posted by rockdrock

Good points. I don’t have an AP in my collection, so this watch will be the first - new. I am starting with this one for now and see how this goes.

By the way, I got treated like dogsh&t in both the Vegas and Atlanta boutique offices when I called them that going to this boutique was a real treat. The sales guy was super knowledgeable, brought Brut champagne for my wife and I with no commitment, a gentleman, and he brought a 3-D model of the CODE to explain the dial, glass, case and movement. He also told me there was a club of CODE collectors he would get me involved and would take me to the new museum. The experience was totally different.

Taking a 40% cut matters no matter what price point but I am personally a stickler in getting the paperwork under my family name and getting registered with AP. The US dollar is doing horrendous here with close to +10% but will get the -7.7% off from taxes. It kind of balances out. I also think the relationship with the boutique will open additional products and services. I am really interested in a factory tour, events, upcoming AP hotel, AP houses, and the new museum.




I really really like the Royal Oak 15202BC. When I go for the pickup I will see how this can happen but I am in no rush.

The sales guy did bring me a 15500 in black. Really beautiful and elegant but I thought that was too big and chunky! It did not feel right for me. Passed. I have tried the 15202 in the past and that was the right size.

But, I am not doing to lie. I have been tempted to get my brother to acquire this watch in the US from those online vendors for low $24K or wait till they show in the secondary market for low $20K like the 1st year run.


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Seems like you thought it through and believe I am big time on buying experience etc but at least I’m starting to notice that I don’t have big enough pockets to establish a meaningful relationship with a boutique and you can get access to AP museum anyway. Idk about factory visit but good luck in getting your 15202 lovely piece and enjoy the purple code kinda like it

[RCSubD]

If you really like this I have a friend who just got one, very nice in person, and another who can get you one for a lot less than retail.

[rockdrock]

Originally Posted by RCSubD

If you really like this I have a friend who just got one, very nice in person, and another who can get you one for a lot less than retail.

Thanks friend. I did get it and love it. No regrets.

Did it! Code 11.59 Purple
https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink/top...ink_source=app


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