While cemented in the history of haute horlogerie for its role as a pioneer, with 150 years of expertise to back its reputation, Audemars Piguet prides itself on using innovation and momentum to pave its own path. In addition to pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking with modern materials and complex movements, the brand is heavily involved in preserving the timeless style and DNA of its most influential model, the Royal Oak. It's a legacy that began as a mere sketch from the mind of Gérald Genta and continues to evolve through like-minded horologists who take pride in carrying on his vision. Today, Audemars Piguet is excited to add to its 150th anniversary by unveiling the Royal Oak "Jumbo" Extra-Thin Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph RD#5.
The new Royal Oak "Jumbo" Extra-Thin Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph RD#5 is a glimpse into where the brand sees the future of complications. Limited to just 150 pieces, the RD#5 represents five years of development and debuts the all-new Calibre 8100, a movement entirely reimagined to create the perfect balance of thinness, ergonomics, and precision. At just 39mm in diameter and 8.1mm thick, the titanium case with metallic glass accents stays true to the original proportions that made the "Jumbo" an icon back in 1972, while introducing a set of complications never before seen in the model's history.
What makes the RD#5 fascinating is how it redefines comfort in a category not usually known for it. The chronograph pushers, for example, were redesigned to engage with the ease of a smartphone button rather than the force of a traditional mechanical chrono. The flying tourbillon at six o'clock adds an aesthetic touch without breaking the Royal Oak's understated look. This is the first time a Royal Oak "Jumbo" has carried both a flyback chronograph and a flying tourbillon, and it does so without compromising the clean geometry of Gérald Genta's legendary design. It feels like a watch made not just to impress, but to be worn, which is perhaps the highest compliment a watch lover can give to a timepiece.
Source: Audemars Piguet
