The worlds of contemporary art and haute horology are increasingly intersecting, resulting in stunning collaborations that blur the lines between functionality and fine art. These limited-edition timepieces represent more than just exquisite craftsmanship. They are wearable art pieces that reflect the unique visions of renowned artists and designers. We spotlight three exceptional collaborations that showcase how art can transform a watch into an iconic statement.
Ressence x Zaha Hadid: Fluid Architecture on the Wrist
Ressence teamed up with the late Zaha Hadid, one of the most celebrated architects of our time, to create a watch that embodies her visionary design ethos. The Type 3Z is a masterpiece of fluid, organic forms inspired by Hadid’s architecture.
The watch showcases a striking black dial adorned with Hadid’s signature parametric curves, rendered as a seamless topographical map. The flowing lines interact with Ressence’s signature oil-filled chamber, giving the illusion that the markings are floating on the surface. Much like Hadid’s buildings, the Type 3Z defies convention, offering a timepiece where the boundaries between technology, art, and architecture dissolve.
Ressence x Shantell Martin: Fluid Lines and Dynamic Faces
Ressence’s latest artistic collaboration, the TYPE 1 Squared x Shantell Martin, features the New York based, British artist’s iconic hand-drawn lines. Known for her interactive, fluid style, Martin’s artwork transforms the watch face into a continuously evolving canvas.
The dial’s black and white design oscillates between abstraction and clarity as Martin’s whimsical linework flows seamlessly across its surface. The signature Ressence rotating discs bring the artwork to life, constantly changing its appearance.
Shantell Martin
My work is deeply rooted in exploring identity and self-expression, and I approached this Ressence design in the same way. I wanted to create a piece that reflects the ever evolving nature of time. The fluid lines in my signature black-and-white style symbolize the layers of identity we all carry, constantly shifting and evolving, just like time itself.
This piece represents the perfect synergy between Martin’s playful yet profound artistic philosophy and Ressence’s innovative engineering. It’s a celebration of art in motion, quite literally. The live auction for this watch takes place on 7 December 2024 at 3:00 PM EST, Phillips, 432 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10022.
Bulgari x Laurent Grasso: Ethereal Clouds and Cosmic Dreams
French conceptual artist Laurent Grasso reimagines Bulgari’s iconic Octo Finissimo Automatic with a design that captures his fascination with celestial phenomena and the intangible.
The dial features an iridescent cloud formation, screen-printed with metallic pigments on a blue PVD-coated surface. The absence of markers or branding enhances the surreal beauty, while the lightweight titanium case reinforces the ethereal theme.
Grasso’s integration of science and art transforms the watch into a metaphorical bridge between the earthly and celestial realms. The exhibition caseback, adorned with the artist’s signature and revealing the ultra-thin BVL 138 movement, further underscores the masterpiece’s artistic and technical sophistication.
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