To mark its 150th anniversary, Audemars Piguet has revealed the final creation in its groundbreaking Research & Development (RD) series: the Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph RD#5. A true celebration of technical mastery and horological heritage, this limited-edition timepiece signals the end of an era – and the beginning of a new one.

Taking five years to develop, the RD#5 represents a feat of engineering. Housing the newly-patented Calibre 8100, this is the first Royal Oak “Jumbo” to combine both a selfwinding flyback chronograph and a flying tourbillon – a rare dual complication within the iconic 39mm silhouette. Crafted in lightweight titanium and cutting-edge bulk metallic glass (BMG), just 150 pieces will be available worldwide.

An Ode To A Legend

First introduced in 1972 and designed by the legendary Gérald Genta, the Royal Oak “Jumbo” redefined watch design with its bold proportions and industrial aesthetic. The RD#5 builds on this legacy, refining every element for performance and comfort. Its chronograph mechanism has been entirely reimagined, with an instant-jump minute counter and push-pieces offering tactile feedback akin to smartphone buttons – a far cry from the heavier, industrial-era chronographs of the 1970s.

Giulio Papi, Director of Watchmaking Design, explains: “Our aim was to reduce the force and travel of the push-pieces to enhance the client experience.” The result is smoother, more responsive usability, setting a new standard in ergonomic watchmaking.

Advanced Engineering

Further innovations include a cleverly integrated function selector crown – replacing traditional pocket-watch-style crowns – and ultra-thin sapphire ‘glass box’ crystals on both the front and back. These hollowed crystals maintain the watch’s sleek profile while allowing space for the sophisticated movement within.

As the final piece in the RD series, the RD#5 marks a transition. Audemars Piguet is now turning to its future, launching dedicated AP Fabrication Laboratories – or ‘Fab Labs’ – to foster innovation in ergonomics, materials, design and craftsmanship. These cross-disciplinary spaces aim to accelerate creativity across all facets of watchmaking.

The RD#5 may close one chapter, but it opens another for Audemars Piguet – one defined by bold vision, boundary-pushing design, and the ongoing quest for perfection.