In terms of look, feel, and function, materials can be everything when it comes to a timepiece. And despite existing on this Earth for hundreds of thousands of years, homosapiens still find ways to evolve and innovate some of the planet’s most widely used elements (in jewelry, anyway). For the latest iteration of its coveted Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked, Audemars PIguet debuts a brand-new material: an alloy it’s calling Sand Gold, made of 18k gold, copper, and palladium.

To celebrate the Royal Oak’s 50th anniversary, the Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked first debuted in 2022, and in stainless steel. And while steel is the most common metal for the Royal Oak in general, AP is no stranger to testing the waters with new materials that will give this luxury icon a fresh perspective. According to the Swiss brand, the Sand Gold reflects light and color differently depending which angle at which it’s held — fluctuating between white and pink gold, although the copper really comes through nicely. Admittedly, it’s difficult to experience the full effect of the watch in mere photographs.

Housed in a 41mm octagonal case, the skeleton watch showcases the in-house Caliber 2972 automatic movement, which also gets some Sand Gold on its bridges and mainplate which “sits in subtle contrast with the rhodium-toned components of the movement’s inner workings to create a unique 3D effect.” Brushed with polished accents, the integrated bracelet also features the new alloy. More contrast comes from the white gold, which is given to the eight screws on the bezel, the applied indices, and the hands, which are filled with luminescent coating. Likewise, the tourbillon at the bottom seems to be mostly white gold as well.

Like many of AP’s timepieces, getting your hands on the Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked will not be cheap. Priced at $250,000, the watch is now available from Audemars Piguet’s boutique.