Renowned for blending pop culture with Swiss fine watchmaking, Audemars Piguet has collaborated with Brooklyn artist Brian Donnelly, known as KAWS to reimagine the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon. This latest interpretation showcases Kaws’ iconic character designs, offering a striking fusion of art and horology.
Encased within a 43mm sandblasted titanium watch case and complemented by a black ceramic crown, the “Companion” immediately commands attention. With its face and hands pressed against the sapphire crystal, it seems to reach out, forging an instant connection with the world beyond its grasp. The caseback features Kaws’ signature and the words “Limited Edition of 250 pieces.
“As part of this collaboration, we have pushed our limits in terms of watchmaking technology to create a spectacular setting with the character at the centre, surrounded by a brand-new hour and minute display system housed in the periphery of the movement.” Lucas Raggi,Research and Development Director, Audemars Piguet
Powering this limited edition is the hand-wound Calibre 2979 movement. It’s got a peripheral hour and minute display, ticks at 3Hz, and has a 72-hour power reserve, with the tourbillon taking center stage at 6 o’clock.
The watch is paired with not one, but two elegant calfskin leather straps—one in a deep dark grey and the other in a cool slate grey. Each strap is adorned with an intricate embossed textile pattern.
As indicated by the caseback engraving, the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “Companion” is limited to 250 pieces, priced at 200,000 CHF (approx. $225,600 USD), and available for inquiry through Audemars Piguet.
This watch is a total show-stopper! Who’s ready to turn some heads? Any takers? For more information, please visit the Audemars Piguet website.
