The Audemars Piguet x Swatch Royal Pop is a highly anticipated collaboration that has been making waves in the watchmaking world. This unique timepiece is a testament to the innovative spirit of both brands, blending the iconic Royal Oak design with Swatch's playful and accessible approach to horology. In my opinion, this collaboration is a refreshing departure from traditional watchmaking, offering a fun and creative way to wear a timepiece. What makes this project particularly fascinating is the fusion of two seemingly disparate worlds: the haute horlogerie of Audemars Piguet and the pop culture-inspired designs of Swatch. This combination is a bold move, and I believe it will captivate a new generation of watch enthusiasts.
The Royal Pop is not just a bio-ceramic version of the Royal Oak; it's a hand-wound, transformable pocket watch. This is a significant departure from the traditional wristwatch, and it's a clever way to break away from the conventional. The pocket watch reference 5691, inspired by Audemars Piguet's own history, is a nod to the brand's heritage while also embracing a modern, playful twist. The Swatch POP series from the early 1990s, with its small round watch head and versatile accessories, is a key influence on this design. This collaboration allows wearers to express their creativity by wearing the watch in various ways, from around their neck to attached to a handbag.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Royal Pop is its Sistem51 movement, a calibre known for its innovative conception. For the first time, this movement is presented in a hand-wound version, offering a unique twist on a well-known innovation. The movement is visible through the exhibition caseback, decorated with a colourful pop-art inspired printing reminiscent of Roy Lichtenstein. The barrel is openworked, revealing the coils of the mainspring, which act as a natural power reserve indicator. This attention to detail and the use of colour are a refreshing change from the typical watchmaking aesthetic.
The Royal Pop collection comes in 8 different versions, each named in a unique language, combining colours and the number eight. These models, a nod to the octagonal bezel of the Royal Oak, offer a range of choices for collectors and enthusiasts. The price is set at CHF 350 / EUR 385 / USD 400 for the hour-and-minute versions and CHF 375 / EUR 400 / USD 420 for the small seconds versions. While some may criticise this collaboration, I believe it is a fun and fresh addition to the watch industry, contributing to the global hype around collectible Swiss watches.
In conclusion, the Audemars Piguet x Swatch Royal Pop is a bold and innovative collaboration that offers a unique twist on the traditional pocket watch. It's a testament to the brands' willingness to push boundaries and create something special. From its design inspirations to the subtle touches that make it unique, the Royal Pop is a must-have for watch enthusiasts and a fun, creative way to express personal style.
