First released in early 2019, CODE41’s X41 was an instant hit thanks to its pragmatic big date complication, skeletonized dial, and intriguing case architecture. Most notably, behind its design were not only CODE41’s engineers but also the input of thousands of the brand’s community members.
Now in its 6th edition, the X41 continues to impress with an unheard-of proposition – a full sapphire case construction at a fraction of the price associated with such a material.
Hereunder, we discuss this groundbreaking release along with other novelties to the X41 collection:
The Success Of CODE41’s X41 Grande Date
Past editions of the X41 had, like many of CODE41’s watch models, enjoyed significant success upon their release, often selling out completely before demand could be satiated. More specifically, CODE41 reports that they’ve delivered 1850 X41 watches totaling nearly 10 million CHF in revenue just from this model.
It’s not difficult to see why the X41 has been so popular; the watch’s contemporary design is unique and enticing without sacrificing the traditional Swiss watchmaking ethos.
The New X41 Sapphire
In recent years, sapphire has become one of the most sought-after case materials in the watch world. Unfortunately, it remained increasingly cost-prohibitive to acquire, especially when dealing with elaborate case designs. Even CODE41 admits that their sapphire case is 22 times more expensive to produce than the titanium equivalent.
The advantage of a sapphire case is clear – a completely unobstructed view into the inner workings of a timepiece from every angle. Indeed, it is not merely the external design of a watch that captivates most aficionados, but also the intricate machine beating within.
Among CODE41’s brand principles is making the finest Swiss watchmaking practices accessible to as many collectors as possible. With this latest sapphire X41 model, there is tangible evidence that their goal is not merely a marketing tactic but one they continuously pursue and have successfully achieved with this release.
No corners were cut in producing the new X41’s sapphire case; it is exactly the same in sapphire as in titanium or AeroCarbon. That being said, the sapphire model offers much greater resistance to scratches than its peers while also being lighter on the wrist.
The sapphire X41 also presents the most optimal exhibition of CODE41’s movement which itself boasts an innovative peripheral winding rotor. This is yet another feature that could hardly be found at this price point, especially considering the caliber is designed, produced, and assembled entirely in Switzerland.
New Colors For Movement Bridges
Seeing as how the X41 has no dial and much of the movement is skeletonized, it can’t really be said that the watch has a traditional dial surface. Nevertheless, CODE41 is still able to offer variations on the face of the X41 by collaborating with Positive Coating, a renowned Swiss movement decorating operation.
The latest product of this Swiss partnership is two new color options for the bridges: an attractive olive/green color as well as a unique rainbow variety. Perhaps most fitting for the sapphire X41, the rainbow option still works very well with the AeroCarbon and grade 5 titanium cases.
The Black, Blue, and Grey models from the 5th edition X41 remain, though the limited nature of CODE41’s releases perhaps points to these being discontinued following this 6th edition. If the X41 in these conformations caught your eye in the past, it’s better to jump on them now rather than be left hoping they return in future, yet-to-be-confirmed editions.
CODE41 X41 6th Edition Case And Strap Options
There’s no question that the sapphire X41 is the highlight of the X41’s latest edition, however, the titanium and AeroCarbon cases will still be offered and remain an exclusive value proposition in their own right.
Broadly speaking, it’s very difficult to find a new-condition, Swiss-made titanium watch below the $10,000 mark. Considering the skeletonized watch face and sophisticated movement, it’s safe to say that the X41 in this case metal is unmatched in the industry. The same can be said for the AeroCarbon-case X41, seeing as how wristwatches crafted from any type of carbon fiber also tend to command a substantial price premium.
Accompanying all three of the X41 case options are tastefully selected strap and bracelet options.
Of course, CODE41 devised a matching translucent strap to go with the sapphire case. There is also a full metal bracelet as well as calfskin, rubber, suede, and alligator leather options in varying colors and styles you can pick from to personalize your X41.
X41 Pricing And Availability
Beginning on April 12th, 2022, the 6th edition of CODE41’s X41 will become available for pre-order with prices starting at $6,045. The pre-order period is scheduled to run for about 3 weeks, yet the limited quantity has led to past editions selling out before the end of the pre-order stage.
You can expect to wait for 8 to 10 months for the delivery of your new timepiece. And while this may sound like a long wait, it is CODE41’s pre-order and community-based approach that allows the brand to offer its refined Swiss watches at such aggressive retail prices. Moreover, once you pre-order, you become integrated into the brand’s community and will receive copious photos and videos detailing the production and progress of your watch.
Continue Reading…
Let us know in the comments below what you think of CODE41’s new X41 watch. If you’d like more information on the CODE41 brand or to read into some of their previous model releases, check out the articles below:
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