Watch brand Ikepod has teamed up with New York City-based artist KAWS for a special edition high-end watch. Based on the Ikepod Horizon designed by Marc Newson, the Ikepod Horizon KAWS was designed to integrate the well-known pop artist’s signature aesthetic. KAWS’ real name is Brian Donnelly, and is best known for his cartoonish art and toys. Highly successful, this project projects KAWS into the world of high-end watches.
The Ikepod KAWS watch dial takes the artist’s signature cross design that he uses for eyes (and often on hands). These have been transformed into the watch hands. The chopstick-like hands are the same length, so a small white indicator has been placed on the hour hand enabling you to actually read the time. The hour markers have been made to look like the teeth KAWS uses on many of his characters. The richly three-dimensional dials are colorful and bold – offering a look never quite seen before, and certainly “very KAWS.”
Ikepod describes the relationship while working with KAWS to be pleasurable. The artist has some interesting ideas and genuinely likes the collaboration process. In addition to the X on the dial, there are double X markings on the rubber strap near the special Ikepod clasp. The Ikepod logo is placed on the bottom of the sapphire crystal and appears to be floating on the dial.
Initially there will be four versions of the Ikepod Horizon by KAWS watch. Each watch is 44mm wide in the wonderful pebble style case made here from titanium. The watches will have brushed or PVD black coated cases and a white, red, or black face. The color choices are interesting as KAWS artwork is usually much louder and more bold. I think that Ikepod and KAWS wanted to capture his style in a more subdued and simple way versus having a bright yellow and green watch.
Inside the Horizon KAWS watch is a Swiss ETA 2892 automatic mechanical movement. The case is water resistant to 50 meters and the watch feels good on the wrist – as most all Ikepod watches are. The unique creation will speak the loudest to KAWS fans and collectors. Especially the more dedicated collectors who purchase KAWS’ original works. This interesting collaboration watch is a good thing, and I like it when artists unfamiliar with the wrist watch world get involved with these types of projects. Price for the Ikepod Horizon by KAWS watches is $14,000 each.
