Over the past week, speculation surrounding the upcoming collaboration between affordable watch brand Swatch and luxury giant Audemars Piguet has likely flooded the feeds of any watch fan on the Internet. From what the watch will actually look like, to what it means for both brands' images, the conversation around the partnership has been incredibly wide-ranging. However, this is far from the first time that Audemars Piguet has taken part in such a collaboration, and it certainly won't be the last.
Audemars Piguet has released collaboration designs with film stars, musicians and other brands over the years; the Swatch x Audemars Piguet 'Royal Pop' will be revolutionary, for sure, but it's part of a long history. Read on to see our selection of the best collaboration watches by Audemars Piguet of all time.
Watch collaborations with sportspeople are no new phenomenon, but the Audemars Piguet x LeBron James piece is a standout: it has no immediate references to his sport, it comes with a much less sporty look than many others, and it's not especially large. Limited to just 600 pieces upon its release in 2013, it very quickly became a collectors' piece.
Marvel-inspired watches are popular at every price point, and Audemars Piguet's Black Panther piece is easily one of the most striking of them all. With a futuristic design, statement dial with a hand-painted three-dimensional depiction of the hero, and titanium case, it's pure proof that a character watch can still be a luxury item.
The beauty is in the details with this Royal Oak designed to celebrate Jay-Z's 10th year in music. 100 were made: 50 in stainless steel, 30 rose gold and 20 in platinum. The number 10 on the watches dial is set in diamonds, and Jay-Z's signature is engraved into the caseback. As the rapper is a known lover of the brand, a collaboration had been in the works for a few years before, and it's safe to say that the work paid off.
A multi-layered, multi-coloured dial inside an 18-carat pink gold case makes this Royal Oak designed in collaboration with Tamara Ralph one of the most quietly unique you'll find in the luxury brand's range.
In 1999, Audemars Piguet launched two limited-edition watches designed in collaboration with Arnold Schwarzenegger for the film End of Days. As well as the 500-piece numbered limited-edition models, the brand created 21 specifically for the actor and his friends.
Crafted from a brown ceramic (the first time the watchmaker has done so) and featuring a small nod to both brands just above six o'clock, this watch made in collaboration with Travis Scott's brand Cactus Jack is subtly playful.
Originally posted on Esquire UK
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