Perhaps not everyone knows that in 1986, Audemars Piguet presented the world's first automatic wristwatch with tourbillon (Ref. 25643). It was powered by the calibre 2870, housed in an ultra-flat case only 5.3 mm thick, equipped with a winding system on the back side. Over the years, several generations of tourbillons have succeeded the calibre 2870. For its part, the Royal Oak welcomed a tourbillon for the first time in 1997 for the 25th anniversary of the collection. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Royal Oak, Audemars Piguet is therefore launching the Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon Skeleton, which is also automatic: calibre 2972 (diameter 31.5 mm, thickness 6.84 mm, 271 components, 27 jewels, 21,600 vibrations per hour), visible through an anti-reflective sapphire crystal porthole, which boasts a 65-hour power reserve. This new movement, which associates a central rotor with a flying tourbillon, is an evolution of the calibre 2950, launched in 2019 within the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection. Of note are the very high level of finishing that characterises it, as well as the fine skeletonisation of the components and the presence of the 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight celebrating the 50th anniversary, which will be present on Royal Oak anniversary models throughout 2022. The 41 mm case is made of steel, as is the bracelet. Both are distinguished by larger polished bevels than in the past, defining a sleeker aesthetic that offers stronger plays of light between the satin and polished surfaces. Finally, the first four links of the integrated bracelet show a decrease in thickness, for greater comfort on the wrist. Will it be the new object of desire? We bet yes, even if it is far too exclusive.
Priceon request.
