Audemars Piguet’s latest release, the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION” 43mm, is a remarkable fusion of artistic vision and horological innovation. Designed in collaboration with renowned artist KAWS, this limited edition timepiece—restricted to just 250 pieces—showcases the brand’s commitment to merging luxury watchmaking with contemporary art.
KAWS’ Artistic Influence
KAWS, born Brian Donnelly, rose to fame as a graffiti artist in New York before becoming a global cultural icon. Known for his unique, pop-culture-inspired style, KAWS creates pieces that capture themes of isolation, nostalgia, and connection. His “COMPANION” character, easily recognized by its crossed-out eyes and gloved hands, is one of his most iconic motifs, symbolizing a blend of innocence and melancholy. This collaboration with Audemars Piguet marks a new chapter for KAWS, allowing him to reinterpret his artistry within the world of high horology.
Design Details of the Timepiece
The Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION” brings KAWS’ character to life in three dimensions, seemingly pressing against the sapphire crystal, a nod to his early work on public advertising posters. This bold design brings the “COMPANION” to the forefront of the watch, making it both a statement piece and a unique art object. Crafted from lightweight titanium, the watch features intricate, carefully designed details:
- Tourbillon Mechanism: Located at 6 o’clock within the character’s chest, the tourbillon serves as both a functional and visual centerpiece. This complex mechanism, which enhances accuracy, is a hallmark of Audemars Piguet’s technical mastery.
- Peripheral Time Display: Instead of traditional center-positioned hands, the hour and minute hands are placed along the edge of the dial, creating a futuristic aesthetic and enhancing the focus on KAWS’ character. This innovation also maintains a clear view of the central “COMPANION” figure.
- Textural Contrast: The watch incorporates various finishes—satin-brushed, sandblasted, and polished—on different components, adding depth and dimension to the design. These contrasting textures emphasize the complex structure of the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon and highlight its distinctive artistic elements.
Technical Innovation and Calibre 2979
At the heart of this masterpiece is Audemars Piguet’s manually wound Calibre 2979, a new movement created specifically for this watch. It provides a three-day power reserve, ensuring lasting precision, and features the unconventional peripheral time display. The transparent sapphire caseback allows a view into the intricate mechanics of the movement, revealing black-PVD titanium bridges that echo KAWS’ artistic style, further reinforcing the unity of art and engineering.
A Cultural Collaboration
The partnership between Audemars Piguet and KAWS represents a seamless blending of two creative worlds. Known for engaging with cultural icons, Audemars Piguet has a history of collaborations that push traditional watchmaking boundaries. This project aligns perfectly with KAWS’ history of transforming everyday items into cultural artifacts. As Ilaria Resta, CEO of Audemars Piguet, explains, this collaboration pushes the limits of craftsmanship by integrating KAWS’ unique vision into a luxury timepiece, challenging conventional definitions of both art and watchmaking.
KAWS himself expressed the honor he feels in partnering with Audemars Piguet, acknowledging the significance of seeing his work intertwined with the brand’s heritage and excellence in horology. This collaboration highlights the shared values of innovation, creativity, and a dedication to timeless craftsmanship.
The Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION” isn’t just a watch; it’s a wearable work of art. Combining Audemars Piguet’s technical expertise with KAWS’ distinctive style, this timepiece redefines the boundaries of luxury and creativity. With its limited availability, innovative design, and bold artistic integration, this model is a testament to Audemars Piguet’s vision for the future of high-end watchmaking and its ongoing commitment to cultural engagement.