Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin RD#3 iN White Gold

Marking its 50th anniversary in 2022, the Royal Oak stands as a trailblazer in the luxury sports watch realm. Audemars Piguet celebrated this milestone with a dazzling array of commemorative models. The debut of the first 39mm Jumbo adorned with an ultra-thin flying tourbillon, dubbed the “Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin RD#3” was greeted with much anticipation. Then this 39mm Jumbo was soon joined by a second steel model, featuring a smaller 37mm case and a striking purple Petite Tapisserie dial. Today, AP introduces a more opulent iteration of its 37mm flying tourbillon, housed in a white gold case embellished with baguette-cut diamonds along the bezel.The 37mm case with a height of 8.1mm is made of 18k white gold with a mix of vertical brushed flat surfaces and polished edges. Mounted by the iconic “Royal Oak” octagonal shaped bezel in a matching alloy, with exposed 18k white gold screws, plus set with 32 baguette-cut diamonds. On the flip-side is a sapphire exhibition case back, which allows a view into the inner workings of the mechanical movement. It features several jewels, gears, and a gold oscillating weight engraved with the AP logo.It also comes equipped with a screw-down crown adorned with the AP logo. All topped by a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating. Water-resistance can reach up to 50 meters (164 feet).Time is exhibited on a smoked blue dial with the iconic AP “Petite Tapisserie” motif, which is a pattern of small squares, obtained thru a hand guilloché treatment. The iconic Royal Oak bathtub-shaped hour markers have been replaced by twelve radiant baguette-cut diamonds.This smoked, gradient effect that grows darker near the periphery was obtained by using the PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) process and by applying black varnish while the dial is in motion.At the 6 o'clock position, we are greeted by the impressive large flying tourbillon featuring a central rotor, shimmering jewels, and a titanium cage. AP has innovatively incorporated a peripheral drive into the tourbillon cage, enhancing energy distribution and refining internal regulation like never before.Careful attention was paid to geometric considerations, allowing AP to position the balance wheel at the dial's level, enriching the visual experience while maintaining functionality. The central gold hands and hour index markers have all been given a luminescent filling, for an enhanced legibility. 

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin RD#3 iN White Gold

The “Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin RD#3” (Ref#: 26660BC.ZZ.1356BC.01) is powered by the in-house, self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 2968 with 33 jewels, 226 parts, and 21,600 vph. Power reserve can last up to 50 hours, when fully wound.Mounted on the watch is an integrated 18k white gold bracelet with an increased taper for a slimmer look, all with a vertically brushed and polished finish, while secured to the wrist by an AP folding clasp. For more up to date information visit the official Audemars Piguet website here.

Audemars Piguet, AP, Royal Oak, Flying, Tourbillon, Extra-Thin, RD#3, Diamonds, Luxury Watches