Audemars Piguet collaborates with contemporary artist KAWS to create the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION”, a limited edition of 250 pieces. Crafted in titanium, this innovative timepiece merges the artistry of KAWS’ iconic COMPANION character with the precision of haute horlogerie, pushing the boundaries of creativity and watchmaking.
In its latest collaboration, Audemars Piguet continues its tradition of fusing high craftsmanship with modern culture. The Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION“ showcases the brand’s innovation and creative synergy with KAWS, a globally acclaimed artist known for his playful, thought-provoking designs.
Art Meets Watchmaking
The Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon reimagines traditional watch design by placing KAWS’ COMPANION at its center, framed by a peripheral time display. This titanium character, complete with X eyes and a dissected chest revealing the tourbillon, reflects KAWS’ playful yet provocative aesthetic.
The titanium case, featuring contrasting textures and KAWS’ signature X motif, houses a state-of-the-art Calibre 2979 movement. This hand-wound tourbillon minimizes the effects of gravity for exceptional accuracy, while its innovative design shifts the focus to the artistic centerpiece.
It has been an incredible experience working with Audemars Piguet over the past two years to bring this project to fruition. I find the world of watchmaking fascinating, and the artisans at Audemars Piguet are truly exceptional in their craft. I am honoured to have my watch included in the company’s catalogue, which spans over a hundred years of watchmaking excellence.
– KAWS, Artist
Pushing the Boundaries of Time
Audemars Piguet has revolutionized the dial design with its peripheral time display, ensuring an unobstructed view of the COMPANION character. The hour and minute hands orbit the periphery of the movement and dial, driven by two superimposed gear wheels guided by rollers. These titanium hands, filled with luminescent material, glow blue in dim light for optimal readability.
The innovative time display, combined with the central placement of the tourbillon, shifts the focus from traditional timekeeping to the artistic centerpiece, pushing the boundaries of design and watchmaking.
A True Collector’s Piece
With only 250 pieces available, the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION” is a rare and extraordinary addition to Audemars Piguet’s catalogue. Each watch encapsulates the spirit of collaboration, blending the finest watchmaking traditions with the bold creativity of KAWS.
