Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon in "Bleu Nuit, Nuage" Ceramic - New 2026 Release
Audemars Piguet Expands Ceramic Expertise with Stunning Blue Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon
Audemars Piguet has unveiled a striking new iteration of the Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon, marking the first time the iconic "Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50" ceramic has been applied to the complete architecture of this grand complication timepiece. Released on August 3, 2026, this 41mm masterpiece showcases AP's mastery in advanced materials while paying homage to the brand's heritage.
Heritage Meets Innovation: The "Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50" Legacy
The distinctive deep blue shade takes its name from the original 1972 Royal Oak Jumbo dial, created by Stern Frères using black pigment No. 50 added to protective lacquer. According to Monochrome Watches, this ceramic color was first introduced in 2025 and has since appeared on select Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore models. However, the 26730CD represents the first time the entire watch—case, bezel, crown, and integrated bracelet—is crafted from this iconic material.
Technical Specifications and Movement
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 10.6mm |
| Water Resistance | 50 meters |
| Movement | Calibre 2950 (in-house automatic flying tourbillon) |
| Power Reserve | 65 hours |
| Frequency | 21,600 vph (3Hz) |
| Components | 270 parts, 27 jewels |
| Reference | 26730CD.OO.1225CD.01 |
Design and Finishing
The watch features a "Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50" Grande Tapisserie dial with 18k white gold applied hour markers and Royal Oak hands filled with luminescent material. At 6 o'clock, the rhodium-toned flying tourbillon appears to float beneath the dial thanks to its bridge-free construction. The movement, visible through the sapphire caseback, showcases traditional finishing including Côtes de Genève, circular graining, polished bevels, and a rhodium-toned 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight.
Market Position and Pricing
This model joins the permanent collection with pricing available upon request, though industry estimates suggest approximately CHF 210,000. The release continues AP's strategic expansion of ceramic offerings across the Royal Oak collection, reinforcing the brand's position as a leader in advanced materials innovation within haute horlogerie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes the "Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50" ceramic special?
A: The color originates from the original 1972 Royal Oak Jumbo dial, achieved by adding black pigment No. 50 to protective lacquer. AP adapted this historic shade for ceramic production in 2025.
Q: Is this a limited edition?
A: No, the Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon in Blue Ceramic (26730CD) is not a limited edition, though production will be carefully managed through AP boutiques.
Q: What is the power reserve of the Calibre 2950?
A: The in-house automatic flying tourbillon movement delivers a 65-hour power reserve, operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour.
Source: According to Monochrome Watches
Learn more about luxury watch materials and understanding tourbillon complications.