Photo: Courtesy of Audemars Piguet
For American designer Matthew Williams, Japan is almost a second home. Not only does he seem to be in love with the country, but he also views it as the “first supporter” of his brand, 1017 ALYX 9SM. So, when it was time to launch a collaboration between ALYX and Audemars Piguet, the Japanese capital was an obvious choice. Of course, the decision might also have something to do with the fact that Japan is the second biggest market for the Swiss watchmaker.
As night fell in Tokyo, a corner of the neon-lit city played witness to an alluring symbiosis between fashion and haute horology. At this crossroads between the two worlds, Audemars Piguet and ALYX presented to the world four new references. The highlight of the evening, however, was the auction of an exclusive creation: a unique Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph with a two-tone case and bracelet, combining 18-carat yellow gold and stainless steel. Carrying the signature of both brands the timepiece is exquisite, to say the least. Powered by the Calibre 4409, it combines the pinnacle of technology in watchmaking with a contemporary, yet timeless aesthetic.
The four other pieces launched at the time follow a similar theme. At the core of these references is the avant-garde spirit of both collaborators, as well as a passion for details and the mastery of their craft. Most importantly, there is a certain respect for each other that has resulted in timeless monochrome pieces that blend refined aesthetics with advanced watchmaking techniques. For Williams, it was “more about celebrating the watch and its history.” He adds, “Just doing my best to create something that was timely, but also timeless, and I believe we achieved that.”
The four references come in 18-carat yellow or white gold and are comprised of two Royal Oak models and two Royal Oak Offshore models of different diameters. This is the first time that the same design has been developed for both…
