Audemars Piguet introduced the first series of the Royal Oak model family equipped with the automatic Flying Tourbillon feature. The model, which the brand commenced as a "concept", takes its place among the standard production series with three new versions.
Of course, the Royal Oak model family is not a stranger to the Tourbillon feature. However, for the first time, we witness that a standard production Royal Oak model comes with the Flying Tourbillon. Moreover, with an automatic movement...
There are three different versions of the model family. These are 18K rose gold, titanium, and stainless steel. Yes, stainless steel... The obsession of the Purist(!) Crew for steel watches is now so effective on the market that today a brand like AP needed to prepare a stainless steel version for its first standard Royal Oak equipped with an automatic Flying Tourbillon.
Designed with a 41mm diameter case, the models differ from each other with their dial features as well as materials. The stainless steel version 26530ST comes with a bright blue tone. The 18K rose gold 26530OR model features the anthracite-themed version of the same dial design. Finally, the titanium 26530TI carries a sandblasted slate gray dial. The cases with a water resistance of 50 meters are accompanied by metal bracelets designed to match the specific variant.
The new models are powered by the surely manufacture AP Caliber 2950. Designed with a diameter of 30.9mm x 6.24mm, the 27-jewels automatic movement operates at a frequency of 3Hz (21600vph) and offers 65 hours of power reserve when fully wound. In addition to its technical features, the caliber, which attracts attention with its decoration in AP standards, is wound by a full size perforated solid gold rotor.
Pricing is stated as "available upon request" instead of specifying the list price for each version. I didn't ask as I was not curious about them at all. If you find out, be sure to drop a line in the comments section below.
