After winning the 2024 Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, comedian Kevin Hart dazzled with his Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin RD#3 and his acceptance speech. Audemars Piguet’s inventive attitude and skilled craftsmanship were evident in this luxury watch.
Innovative Legacy: Royal Oak Collection
The 1972 Royal Oak collection changed luxury sports watches. Its radical design, octagonal bezel, and integrated band challenged luxury watch aesthetics. The RD#3 expands this legacy. Although smaller than the Royal Oak, it features cutting-edge technology and exquisite craftsmanship.
The RD#3: Engineering Masterpiece
Size is the RD#3’s most noticeable attribute. The 37mm satin-brushed and polished white gold case fits the trend of smaller wristwatches while preserving masculine appeal. The brilliance is beneath the surface. Despite having a tourbillon, the RD#3’s Calibre 2968 self-winding movement is ultra-thin. After five years of research and development, Audemars Piguet created this movement for the smaller case size, which is stunning.
Design and Details: A Visual Treat
Technical prowess and visual artistry make the RD#3 appealing. The PVD-created smoked blue Petite Tapisserie dial adds depth and mystery. Legibility is enhanced with baguette-cut diamond hour markers and luminous white gold hands. The flying tourbillon at 6 o’clock is the highlight. This stunning titanium caged complication shows the balance wheel’s continual dance, demonstrating Audemars Piguet’s precise watchmaking.
The bezel is elaborately encrusted with 32 baguette-cut diamonds, adding luxury without compromising the watch’s sportiness. Integrated white gold bracelet for seamless fit and comfort, signature folding clasp for secure and polished finish.
Legacy Within Legacy (RD#3)
The Royal Oak “RD” series showcases Audemars Piguet’s most innovative designs. Both the first RD, a revolutionary minute repeater, and the second, the thinnest automatic perpetual calendar at the time, set new standards. The RD#3, though less flashy, follows this tradition. It’s AP’s best example of automatic winding and tourbillon complexity. The first Royal Oak “Jumbo” (39mm) with an ultra-thin, flying tourbillon movement was a milestone in the collection’s history.
A Collector’s Watch
The 50-meter water resistance and 50-hour battery reserve may cast doubt on its “sports watch” status, but the Royal Oak collection in 2024 must be considered. The Royal Oak family has grown, and the RD#3 targets discerning collectors who value technical proficiency and exclusivity. Not for deep-sea diving or everyday wear, this watch is a masterpiece to be viewed and enjoyed by people who appreciate its artistry and inventiveness.
Rare Timepiece Highlighted
Kevin Hart’s choice of the RD#3 has made this watch famous. However, its limited manufacture (just a handful are made) and expensive price (about $240,000) keep it a prized and rare timepiece for a select few watch enthusiasts.
The Final Word: A Fusion of Luxury and Innovation
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Extra-Thin RD#3 is a luxury watch masterpiece. It blends modern technology with classic design to create a stunning work of art. The RD#3 shows Audemars Piguet’s dedication, yet it may not be available to everyone.
