The Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION,” in good company
Since this morning, a strange figure has been peacefully watching over Le Brassus in Switzerland. Created and designed by the world-renowned artist KAWS, the famous "COMPANION" has made its way to the Audemars Piguet manufacture. Proudly perched above the building, it is miniaturized and integrated onto the dial of the new Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon, for a limited edition of 250 pieces.
The “COMPANION” watches over the Audemars Piguet manufacture
Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION,” futuristic style and high-tech materials
Mounted on an integrated and interchangeable light gray calfskin strap with a textile effect (also available on a slate gray strap), the 43 mm titanium case features a multi-faceted architecture that alternates between sandblasted, satin-brushed, and polished finishes, further emphasizing its geometric lines.
Equipped with a black ceramic crown topped with a titanium cap, it is enhanced by a bezel featuring eight exposed hexagonal screws, whose heads mirror the iconic X shape of the designer. The sapphire caseback is framed by a titanium ring engraved with KAWS’ signature and the inscription “Limited Edition of 250 pieces.”
KAWS’ universe at the heart of the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION”
A marvel of miniature craftsmanship, the three-dimensional silhouette of the “COMPANION” appears on the dial of the watch, whose plate is machined in sunburst titanium. Protected by a sapphire crystal, this cartoon-like character seems to touch the internal surface of the glass with its face and the palms of its hands. Ultra-realistic, it captures the eye with its many details, which stand out through alternating satin and brushing finishes. Easily recognizable, it features a skull-shaped head, X-shaped eyes filled with gray lacquer, gloves, and bones for ears. Reminiscent of KAWS’ “dissected” collection, the figure’s chest is wide open, revealing a remarkable tourbillon.
A tourbillon makes the heart of the “COMPANION” beat
Placed at 6 o’clock, the tourbillon is powered by a new innovative movement with peripheral hours and minutes. Indeed, to allow the KAWS character to express itself freely, the hollowed-out hour hand and minute hand rotate around the edge of the dial, thanks to the use of two overlapping toothed wheels.
“This collaboration allowed us to push the boundaries of watchmaking technology. By positioning the character at the center of the watch, we created a spectacular scenography and completely rethought the display of the hour and minute on the periphery of the movement.”
Lucas Raggi, Research and Development Director at Audemars Piguet
The Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION” is inspired by KAWS’ aesthetic.
Shaped in titanium, they are coated with blue luminescent material, similar to the five-minute scale, offering an entirely different spectacle in the dark. Equipped with approximately 72 hours of power reserve, the automatic movement, visible on the back, showcases its originality with black PVD titanium bridges that feature a quilted design, referencing certain interpretations of the “COMPANION.”
An invitation to creativity and innovation
Audemars Piguet is no stranger to bold ventures. After the Royal Oak Concept “Black Panther” and “Spider-Man,” the watchmaker enjoys collaborating with artists who aren’t afraid to bring their own vision of Haute Horlogerie, whether disruptive, provocative, or humorous. Beyond offering a fresh perspective on this sometimes insular world, it invites challenges to the manufacture’s workshops in terms of technicality and innovation, always with creativity at the forefront.
Limited edition of 250 pieces – Price on request
Consult the technical specifications of the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION.”
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