In a collaboration that has sent shockwaves through the worlds of art and luxury horology, Audemars Piguet has joined forces with iconic artist Brian Donnelly—better known as KAWS—to launch what is undoubtedly the hypiest watch of 2024. With its bold design and fusion of pop art aesthetics, this watch is redefining the boundaries of creativity in timepiece design.
For two years, KAWS managed to keep the collaboration under wraps. He went to great lengths to avoid public detection. The artist, renowned for his signature X-motif and reimagining of beloved cartoon characters, even adopted the habit of twisting his wrist inward at events. This was all an effort to maintain secrecy about the project he had been developing since 2022. However, in early September, eagle-eyed Instagram sleuths spotted the unmistakable KAWS X’s on his Audemars Piguet Royal Oak during an event. The cat—or watch, in this case—was finally out of the bag.
“I was bummed that the watch got out to the public, because I wanted to keep the snow fresh,” KAWS shared during a recent video call. But despite the unintended leak, the hype surrounding the timepiece has only grown exponentially.
The KAWS Royal Oak: Art Meets Engineering
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is already a watch with cult status, known for its unique octagonal bezel and integration of high-end watchmaking with sporty aesthetics. KAWS’ interpretation of the Royal Oak pushes these boundaries even further. The dial is a canvas for his signature artistry, featuring his iconic X’s and bold, colourful designs. This is more than just a timepiece; it’s a wearable work of art.
KAWS has a long-standing reputation for merging the worlds of high art and street culture. His sculptures, paintings, and merchandise have drawn acclaim from collectors and fans alike, and this latest venture is no different. “Working with Audemars Piguet has been a dream,” KAWS explained. “The Royal Oak is such an iconic piece of design—it was the perfect platform to explore new ideas.”
The Making of the Masterpiece
The collaboration marks a first for Audemars Piguet in its efforts to bridge luxury watchmaking with contemporary art. To achieve the watch’s final look, KAWS worked closely with the brand’s artisans. They explored ways to combine the precision engineering of the Royal Oak with his bold artistic expression. The result? A striking visual narrative that pays homage to KAWS’ playful yet meticulous approach to art.
The timepiece is not only visually captivating but also technically impressive. Powered by Audemars Piguet’s in-house movement, the KAWS Royal Oak promises the reliability and craftsmanship that watch enthusiasts have come to expect from the Swiss watchmaker.
The Ultimate Collector’s Item
This limited-edition watch is destined to become a grail piece for both watch aficionados and art collectors. With only a handful of units produced, demand has already reached fever pitch. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration between two giants in their respective fields.
For KAWS, this partnership is just the beginning of more ambitious ventures in the future. And for Audemars Piguet, it reinforces their position as a forward-thinking brand willing to push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking.
If you’re looking to own a piece of history—whether you’re a fan of contemporary art, horology, or both—this is the watch to keep on your radar.