The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon reference 26730ST.OO.1320ST.01 is a 41mm luxury timepiece released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Royal Oak collection. Crafted from stainless steel, this model features the collection’s hallmark octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet, both updated with wider polished bevels to enhance the play of light. The watch is distinguished by its smoked blue Grande Tapisserie dial, which transitions from a lighter center to a darker periphery, providing a deep backdrop for the white gold applied hour markers and Royal Oak hands. It is powered by the in-house Calibre 2950, a self-winding movement that offers a 65-hour power reserve and features a special “50-years” commemorative oscillating weight visible through the sapphire caseback.
The primary complication of this timepiece is the flying tourbillon, which is showcased through an aperture at the 6 o’clock position. Unlike a traditional tourbillon, the flying architecture is supported only from the bottom, leaving the rotating cage entirely visible from the dial side without an upper bridge. The movement operates at a frequency of 3 Hz and is finished with high-horology techniques including snailing, hand-polished chamfers, and straight Côtes de Genève. The case maintains a thickness of 10.6mm and provides a water resistance of up to 50 meters, supported by a screw-locked crown.
General reviews of the 26730ST frequently praise its refined aesthetic and the technical achievement of integrating a flying tourbillon into the iconic Royal Oak steel case. Enthusiasts note that the smoked blue dial adds significant depth and elegance compared to standard versions. While the watch is celebrated for its balanced proportions and the exclusivity of the anniversary-specific rotor, some collectors mention that the brushed steel surfaces remain susceptible to scratches. Overall, it is regarded as a premier example of Audemars Piguet’s ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern mechanical innovation.