In March 2024, Audemars Piguet introduced sand gold — a new 18-carat gold alloy combining gold with copper and palladium — with the Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked. The material offers a unique hue that shifts between white and pink gold depending on the light source: under direct illumination it reads warm, under shade it appears cooler. The effect is reminiscent of sunlight on desert sands at different hours of the day.
This mesmerising material brings a new aesthetic dimension to the iconic Royal Oak collection, which has defined the house’s identity since its 1972 launch. The watch itself is a 41mm piece housing the Calibre 2972, first released in 2022 for the Royal Oak’s 50th anniversary. The movement combines a selfwinding mechanism with a flying tourbillon, its highly stylised and multilayered openworked architecture designed to offer symmetry while creating a unique three-dimensional effect.
Sand-gold-toned openworked bridges and mainplate are visible from both sides, their depth accentuated by a contrast of galvanic colours and rhodium-toned components. The overall design combines technical sophistication with contemporary elegance. Case and bracelet carry Audemars Piguet’s signature satin brushing and polished chamfers, enhancing the sand gold’s natural lustre.
White gold applied hour markers and Royal Oak hands feature luminescent coating for legibility at night. Water resistance is 50 metres. Power reserve is guaranteed at a minimum of 65 hours.
As Heritage and Museum Director Sebastien Vivas observed, with sand gold Audemars Piguet is reviving the creative approach to gold alloys and colours that prevailed for thousands of years until the 1960s. The Royal Oak in sand gold sets a new standard while continuing a tradition that goes back to antiquity.