To mark its 150th anniversary, the watchmaker presents the RD#5, a watch inspired by the legendary Jumbo model, combining exceptional finesse and technical innovation in an iconic design.
A new milestone for a reinvented icon
According to Gear Patrol, Audemars Piguet has unveiled the RD#5 as "the ultimate Royal Oak," designed to celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2025. The watch retains the classic proportions of the famous "Jumbo" Extra-Thin, with a diameter of 39 mm and a thickness of 8.1 mm, but boasts remarkable thinness for an automatic watch.
The history of the Royal Oak began in 1972, when Gerald Genta revolutionized watchmaking with a sporty steel watch featuring an octagonal case and integrated bracelet. According to the Audemars Piguet website, this model transformed steel into a precious material and redefined sports luxury. Vogue points out that more than 500 different versions followed, demonstrating its extraordinary longevity.
What the manufacturer says
Audemars Piguet explains that the RD#5 is clearly inspired by the Extra-Thin "Jumbo," but that it also seeks to combine the original aesthetic with technical innovation. The official communication emphasizes the quality of the case and dial finishes, as well as the seamless integration of the movement.
Gear Patrol highlights the mechanical advancement: designing an automatic watch that is legible, water-resistant, and dated in such a thin case (8.1 mm) requires significant technical compromises. The company claims to have overcome these challenges, but in practice, it is mainly up to collectors and watchmakers to judge whether the result is up to par.
The Royal Oak has had a profound impact on watch design and the codes of luxury. High-end watches and Wikipedia highlight the marine inspiration and stylistic break initiated by Genta in 1972. This context gives even more meaning to the RD#5: it is not simply a new model, but a new interpretation of a legend.
Reception and challenges for the market
According to Gear Patrol, the RD#5 is one of this year's most significant launches. The real commercial challenge? First, satisfying "Jumbo" purists, and second, attracting a global clientele seeking exclusivity. The value of this piece will depend as much on technical mastery as on cultural perception.
The announcement has been met with both admiration and caution. On the one hand, the aesthetics and historical continuity are impressive, but on the other, talking about an "ultimate" Royal Oak requires verifying the facts and comparing it with other iconic models. Ultimately, the credibility of the RD#5 will depend on its actual performance and an independent assessment of its watchmaking qualities.
The RD#5 appears to be an ambitious technical tribute to a truly revolutionary watch. From what we know, it combines memory and innovation, but obviously remains under the critical eye of experts and the market.