Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin RD#3
This is the first Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo to feature an automatic flying tourbillon in 50 years. That equates to half a century on a waiting list. This is the latest Research and Development timepiece by AP, which took 5 years of research to properly accommodate the new 2968 caliber movement, and explains why its full name is “Royal Oak Jumbo Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin RD#3”.The 39mm case is available in stainless-steel with a mix of vertical brushed flat surfaces and polished edges. In an extra-thin case that only measures in at a height of 8.1mm. While mounted by the iconic “Royal Oak” octagonal shaped bezel in a matching alloy, with exposed 18k white gold screws. 
On the flip-side is a sapphire exhibition case back, which allows a view into the inner workings of the mechanical movement. It features a rhodium-toned 22k pink gold oscillating weight with a carved out “50” years emblem, which will only be included on the models sold during 2022. This highlight will make them some-what collectibles, as the current production continues on without this distinct characteristic.
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 blue dial, but it’s not just blue, this is the original 1972 Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50 blue dial with the iconic AP “Petite Tapisserie” motif, which is a pattern of small squares, obtained thru a hand guilloché that appears here with gold applied index markers.
This hue was obtained by using the PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) process, which assures a uniform tone across the full dial.
At the 6 o’clock spot we encounter the large flying tourbillon with a central rotor, sparkling jewels, and a cage made out of titanium. For the first time ever AP has equipped the tourbillon cage with a peripheral drive that makes its energy distribution more fluid, while also refining its internal regulation.
Various geometric aspects were taken into consideration, so AP could place the balance wheel at the dials level, to offer a greater visual experience, while preserving its functionality. The central gold hands and hour index markers have all been given a luminescent filling, for an enhanced legibility. 
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin RD#3
The “Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin RD#3” (Ref#: 26670ST.OO.1240ST.01) is powered by the new 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 stainless-steel bracelet, 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.
