Audemars Piguet 26660ST.OO.1356ST.02 Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin RD#3 Purple Dial Watch

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Extra‑Thin RD#3 – Ref. 26660ST.OO.1356ST.02

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Extra‑Thin (RD#3) Ref. 26660ST.OO.1356ST.02 is a groundbreaking milestone introduced in 2022. Crafted in stainless steel with a refined 37 mm case, it houses AP’s ultra-thin automatic Calibre 2968 and features a visible flying tourbillon—making it the first self-winding tourbillon in this size within the Royal Oak lineage. It combines heritage design, modern technology, and exceptional wearability.

Case & Dial

• Material & Dimensions: Speedily executed in stainless steel, the 37 mm octagonal case measures a slender 8.1 mm in height, staying true to the legendary “Jumbo” ethos. It features front and exhibition caseback made of glare-proofed sapphire, with a 50 m water resistance rating.
• Dial: The pronounced purple “Petite Tapisserie” dial is AP’s first plum-colored for this complication, highlighted by white-gold applied hour markers and luminescent Royal Oak hands—combining visual impact with functionality.

Movement: Calibre 2968

• Automatic Flying Tourbillon: Calibre 2968 is a 3.4 mm-thin automatic movement—the result of the RD#3 project—to accommodate a flying tourbillon in a compact Royal Oak case.
• Technical Proficiency: Operating at 3 Hz (21,600 vph) with 30 jewels and comprising 226 components, it delivers a robust 50-hour power reserve—presenting a balance of fine watchmaking and modern performance.

Unique Characteristics

This reference represents a fusion of innovation and heritage. Its 37 mm stainless steel case makes it ideal for both men and women seeking a sophisticated yet bold presence. The debut of the plum “Petite Tapisserie” dial and the integration of a flying tourbillon in an ultra-thin automatic calibre set it apart—an impressive blend of technical advances and aesthetic evolution.

Technical Specifications

• Reference: 26660ST.OO.1356ST.02
• Case: Stainless steel; 37 mm × 8.1 mm; 50 m WR
• Dial: Plum “Petite Tapisserie” with white-gold markers and luminescent hands
• Movement: Calibre 2968, automatic; flying tourbillon; 3 Hz; ~50-h power reserve
• Bracelet: Integrated stainless steel with AP folding clasp

Collector Appeal & Gender Positioning

The Ref. 26660ST.OO.1356ST.02 transcends traditional gender labels. Its 37 mm dimension makes it equally elegant for smaller wrists, while the complex automatic tourbillon movement and technical excellence ensure it remains a prized collectors’ piece for both men and women. This watch bridges sophistication with mechanical innovation—an emblem of modern watchmaking versatility.

Conclusion 26660ST.OO.1356ST.02

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Extra‑Thin RD#3 Ref. 26660ST.OO.1356ST.02 is a horological marvel. It embodies the distinctive Royal Oak design while pushing the boundaries of complication and form factor. With its automatic flying tourbillon, ultra-thin movement, and iconic steel case, it offers a compelling expression of understated luxury and technical mastery—ideal for connoisseurs of refined yet revolutionary timepieces.