Audemars Piguet has unveiled a new iteration of its Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin (RD#3) in 37 mm, made of 18-carat white gold and adorned with baguette-cut diamonds on the bezel.
This timepiece, inspired by previous models in stainless steel, features a deep smoked blue dial with diamond hour-markers. Just like the 37 mm steel RD#3 version, this new timepiece integrates several aesthetic elements of the “Jumbo” dial. Similarly to 39 mm models, it encompasses a Petite Tapisserie, offered in a new smoked blue colourway.
The blue shade is obtained by Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD), whereas the smoked effect seen on the periphery is achieved by meticulously spraying black varnish while the dial is rotating.
Powered by the ultra-thin selfwinding Calibre 2968, this is the thinnest gold model in the 37 mm Royal Oak collection.
The flying tourbillon movement, originally designed for larger cases, was reimagined to fit within the smaller dimensions. This required repositioning components and enhancing the escapement for improved energy distribution and reliability.
This delicate, high-end complication counteracts the effects of gravity on the watch’s accuracy. The balance wheel and escapement are housed in a tiny rotating cage that completes a revolution every minute to prevent their centre of gravity from staying in the same orientation.
Contrary to its tourbillon sibling, the flying tourbillon cage is only supported from below to leave the watch’s beating heart unobscured on the dial side. It is considered today as a symbol of watchmaking art as only a few expert watchmakers retain the skills required for its production.
The movement’s aesthetic design includes openworked rhodium-toned bridges and a modern finish on the mainplate and bridges.
