Audemars Piguet X KAWS Merge Art and Horology with New Timepiece
Georgia Wray Norsten — November 22, 2024 — Luxury
References: audemarspiguet & highsnobiety
The Audemars Piguet X KAWS collaboration brings the worlds of luxury watches and contemporary art closer than ever with the unveiling of the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon 'COMPANION.' This highly anticipated timepiece redefines high-end watchmaking and celebrates KAWS’ iconic Companion figure in a miniature 3D form.
At the heart of this 43mm masterpiece lies the miniature Companion, meticulously integrated into the dial beneath a sapphire crystal. With its hands and face seemingly pressed against the glass, the figure creates an illusion of life within the watch. Paying homage to KAWS’ “Dissected” series, the Companion’s chest reveals the intricate tourbillon movement -- a perfect fusion of art and precision craftsmanship.
Every detail resonates with KAWS’ style, from the hexagonal screws subtly branded with the artist’s signature “X” motif to the sapphire case back showcasing his distinctive design.
Limited to just 250 pieces, the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon COMPANION solidifies Audemars Piguet’s commitment to innovation and cultural relevance. This collaboration is a testament to how horology and art can seamlessly merge, offering collectors a truly one-of-a-kind piece of wearable art.
Image Credit: Audemars Piguet
At the heart of this 43mm masterpiece lies the miniature Companion, meticulously integrated into the dial beneath a sapphire crystal. With its hands and face seemingly pressed against the glass, the figure creates an illusion of life within the watch. Paying homage to KAWS’ “Dissected” series, the Companion’s chest reveals the intricate tourbillon movement -- a perfect fusion of art and precision craftsmanship.
Every detail resonates with KAWS’ style, from the hexagonal screws subtly branded with the artist’s signature “X” motif to the sapphire case back showcasing his distinctive design.
Limited to just 250 pieces, the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon COMPANION solidifies Audemars Piguet’s commitment to innovation and cultural relevance. This collaboration is a testament to how horology and art can seamlessly merge, offering collectors a truly one-of-a-kind piece of wearable art.
Image Credit: Audemars Piguet
Trend Themes
1. Luxury Art Collaborations - The fusion of high-end watchmaking and contemporary art exemplifies a growing trend where luxury brands partner with renowned artists to create unique, collectible pieces.
2. Limited-edition Exclusivity - The release of timepieces in limited quantities, such as the 250-piece Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon COMPANION, highlights a strategy of creating demand through exclusivity and scarcity.
3. Wearable Art - Integrating iconic art elements into everyday luxury items like watches transforms them into wearable pieces of art, appealing to both art enthusiasts and high-end consumers.
Industry Implications
1. Luxury Watchmaking - High-end watch brands are continuously innovating by incorporating artistic elements, appealing to a broader audience beyond traditional horology aficionados.
2. Contemporary Art - The collaboration between artists like KAWS and luxury brands demonstrates an evolving intersection between contemporary art and fashion, creating novel revenue streams.
3. Collectibles Market - Limited-edition collaborations between artists and luxury brands fuel the growth of the high-value collectibles market by offering uniquely desirable items.
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