Collaborations between watchmakers and artists have become increasingly prevalent, resulting in some truly exceptional timepieces that transcend the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. One such collaboration that has captured the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike is the partnership between
Hublot and renowned Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami. Their latest creation, the Hublot Classic Fusion Takashi Murakami Black Ceramic Rainbow, is a testament to the power of creative synergy, pushing the boundaries of both art and watchmaking.
Founded in 1980 by Carlo Crocco, Hublot has established itself as a pioneer in the world of luxury watches. The brand's philosophy, aptly termed "The Art of Fusion," revolves around the innovative combination of unconventional materials and traditional watchmaking techniques. Hublot's relentless pursuit of innovation has led to the creation of groundbreaking timepieces that have revolutionized the industry. From the iconic Big Bang to the sleek Classic Fusion, Hublot's watches are synonymous with boldness, creativity, and a distinctive aesthetic that sets them apart.
Courtesy of Hublot
Takashi Murakami is a leading figure in the contemporary art world, celebrated for his vibrant and whimsical creations that draw inspiration from Japanese pop culture, anime, and traditional art. His signature "Superflat" style, characterized by its flat planes of color, bold outlines, and playful motifs, has captivated audiences worldwide. Murakami's artistic vision extends beyond the canvas, encompassing sculpture, fashion, and even commercial collaborations, blurring the lines between high art and popular culture.
Phillips, a renowned auction house specializing in fine art, design, and watches, has played a pivotal role in bringing the Hublot Classic Fusion Takashi Murakami Black Ceramic Rainbow to the forefront of the collector community. The watch will be featured as Lot #100 in Phillips' "TOKI: Watch Auction," a thematic auction dedicated to Japanese watchmaking. This prestigious platform provides a unique opportunity for discerning collectors to acquire this exceptional timepiece while supporting a worthy cause.
The Classic Fusion collection, launched in 2005, embodies Hublot's commitment to blending tradition and innovation. Characterized by its elegant design and refined aesthetics, the Classic Fusion provides the perfect canvas for Hublot's collaborations with artists and designers. The collection has witnessed a series of limited-edition releases that showcase the brand's ability to seamlessly integrate artistic expression into its timepieces.
Courtesy of Hublot
The Classic Fusion Takashi Murakami Black Ceramic Rainbow is a visual masterpiece that seamlessly blends Hublot's watchmaking expertise with Murakami's artistic flair. The watch's 45mm black ceramic case exudes a sense of understated sophistication, providing a striking contrast to the vibrant colors of the dial. The signature Smiling Flower, a recurring motif in Murakami's work, takes center stage, its gem-set face adding a three-dimensional quality to the watch. The twelve petals of the flower, adorned with a mesmerizing array of 384 gemstones, form a spinning disk that dances with the movement of the wrist. This kinetic element, powered by Hublot's UNICO automatic manufacture movement, adds a playful touch to the watch, captivating the eye and sparking conversation.
The watch's black ceramic case, with its polished and satin-finished surfaces, creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, enhancing its visual appeal. The black rubber strap, featuring a black-plated stainless steel deployant buckle clasp, complements the case perfectly, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist. The Classic Fusion Takashi Murakami Black Ceramic Rainbow is a watch that demands attention, its bold design and vibrant colors making a statement without being ostentatious.
At the heart of the watch's design lies Takashi Murakami's signature Smiling Flower, a symbol of joy and optimism that has become synonymous with the artist's work. The flower's three-dimensional face, crafted from 103 meticulously set gemstones, adds a captivating depth to the dial. The twelve petals, adorned with a mesmerizing spectrum of 384 gemstones, form a rotating disk that spins gracefully with the movement of the wrist. This kinetic element, a testament to Hublot's ingenuity, transforms the watch into a dynamic spectacle of color and light.
Courtesy of Hublot
The gemstones, carefully selected for their brilliance and color saturation, represent a harmonious blend of rubies, sapphires, amethysts, tsavorites, and topaz. The meticulous arrangement of these gems creates a seamless gradient of color, transitioning effortlessly from one hue to the next. The result is a mesmerizing display that captures the essence of Murakami's vibrant artistic vision.
Powering this horological marvel is Hublot's UNICO manufacture movement, a self-winding caliber renowned for its precision and reliability. This intricate mechanism, comprising 256 components and 30 jewels, beats at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), ensuring accurate timekeeping. The movement's 72-hour power reserve provides ample autonomy, allowing the watch to maintain its accuracy even when not worn for extended periods.
The UNICO movement's intricate workings are visible through the watch's sapphire crystal case back, offering a glimpse into the mechanical ballet that drives this masterpiece. The rotor, adorned with Hublot's signature "H" logo, adds a touch of refinement to the movement's aesthetic.
Courtesy of Hublot
The watch's 45mm black ceramic case is a testament to Hublot's mastery of materials. The case's sleek, polished finish exudes a sense of understated luxury, while its satin-finished bezel adds a subtle contrast. The black ceramic, known for its durability and scratch resistance, ensures that the watch will retain its pristine appearance for years to come.
The case's design is a harmonious blend of form and function. The ergonomically curved lugs ensure a comfortable fit on the wrist, while the crown, adorned with Hublot's signature "H" logo, provides easy access to the watch's functions. The sapphire crystal, with its anti-reflective coating, offers a clear view of the dial, while also protecting it from scratches and impacts.
The watch's black rubber strap, lined with a soft, supple material, provides a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist. The strap's textured finish adds a touch of visual interest, while its black-plated stainless steel deployant buckle clasp ensures easy adjustment and a secure closure.
Courtesy of Hublot
The Hublot Classic Fusion Takashi Murakami Black Ceramic Rainbow is a unique piece, making it a highly sought-after collector's item. Its rarity, combined with its artistic significance and horological mastery, positions it as a true investment-grade timepiece. The watch's association with Phillips' "TOKI: Watch Auction" further enhances its desirability, offering collectors a chance to acquire this exceptional piece through a prestigious platform.
Beyond its aesthetic and horological merits, the Hublot Classic Fusion Takashi Murakami Black Ceramic Rainbow carries a philanthropic mission. All proceeds from the sale of this unique piece will be donated to Fond'Action, a Swiss-based non-profit foundation dedicated to funding innovative cancer research projects. By acquiring this timepiece, collectors not only acquire a piece of horological history but also contribute to a noble cause that aims to improve the lives of cancer patients worldwide.