In the world of haute horlogerie, certain collaborations stand out for their ability to merge the pinnacle of watchmaking with cultural zeitgeist. The
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked "Cactus Jack" 26585CM.OO.D301VE.01 is one such marvel, a limited edition of only 200 pieces, that not only showcases Audemars Piguet's mastery of watchmaking but also its pulse on modern pop culture.
Courtesy of Audemars Piguet
Audemars Piguet, a name synonymous with luxury watchmaking since 1875, has been at the forefront of introducing groundbreaking designs and complications. The Royal Oak, introduced in 1972, revolutionized the watch industry with its unique octagonal bezel and exposed screws, becoming a symbol of Audemars Piguet's innovation and craftsmanship.
This limited edition Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked is a result of Audemars Piguet's collaboration with Cactus Jack, the brand and record label founded by influential hip hop artist Travis Scott. This partnership signifies a continuation of Audemars Piguet's tradition of intersecting the realms of high horology with contemporary culture, reminiscent of their previous collaborations with icons like Jay-Z and LeBron James.
Courtesy of Audemars Piguet
The watch is crafted in brown ceramic, a first for Audemars Piguet, showcasing the brand’s continual push for innovation in materials. The 41mm case and bracelet studs, meticulously finished with alternating satin-brushing and polished chamfers, reflect a refined aesthetic. The brown ceramic lends a unique look, paying homage to Cactus Jack's signature color palette.
The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar "Cactus Jack" is not just a timepiece but a canvas for artistic expression. The typography of the calendar and week indications draws inspiration from Travis Scott’s hand-drawn designs, while the day subdial at 9 o'clock bears the shape of the Cactus Jack logo. The most striking feature is the moon phase at 6 o’clock, represented by the emblematic Cactus Jack smiley face, which glows blue in the dark, in contrast to the green luminescent coating of other calendar indications.
Powering this exquisite piece is the selfwinding Calibre 5135, visible through the brown ceramic and sapphire caseback. The movement, comprising 38 jewels and 374 parts, boasts a 40-hour power reserve and a frequency of 2.75 Hz (19,800 vph). The decoration of this calibre is a sight to behold, with the 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight engraved with "Audemars Piguet" and "Cactus Jack" signifying this unique collaboration.
Courtesy of Audemars Piguet
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked "Cactus Jack" is more than a watch; it’s a cultural artifact that represents the intersection of high-end watchmaking and modern iconography. It's a testament to Audemars Piguet’s commitment to embracing contemporary culture while upholding the highest standards of horological craftsmanship. For the connoisseur of fine watches and the admirer of cultural trends, this timepiece is not just an accessory but a statement of artistic expression and mechanical perfection.