It fits in your pocket.
You’ve seen the rumours and AI-generated images of what the collaboration would entail. Earlier today, both Swatch and Audemars Piguet dropped the ball with a colour pop surprise. Not only did this send the watch community into overdrive, but it also drew attention for its playful, pocket-sized aesthetics. Since the successful collaboration with Omega and Blancpain, Swatch is set to take on the realm with a vibrant direction.
What to know about the Swatch x Audemars Piguet Royal Pop collaboration:
When early teasers pointed towards a “colour pop” direction, the announcement sparked debate about whether it would lean into a conventional timepiece. Well, the grand reveal of the collaboration proved otherwise. The exclusive collection includes eight pocket watches in eight various colourways. Staying true to the Audemars Piguet silhouette, each pocket watch features elements of the brand’s iconic Royal Oak. With its recognisable octagon shape and eight bezel screws, you’ll realise that each dial is a homage to the “Petite Tapisserie”—a signature, finely checkered guilloché pattern used on the dials of Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watches. Each lanyard is made from calfskin and equipped with a bioceramic attachment that lets you click it in and out of the case.
At the heart of this collaboration is the SISTEM51 calibre, which delivers an impressive 90-hour power reserve. Flip it around, and you’ll notice the beauty of its movement through its exhibition caseback and beautifully decorated with Pop-Art inspired graphics.
What colours are available?
Huit Blanc (White), Otto Rosso (Pink), Green Eight (Green), Blaue Acht (Lime Green with Blue), Orenji Hachi (Navy and orange), Lan Ba (Blue and Light Blue), Ocho Negro (Matte Black and White) and lastly, Otg Roz (Pink, Yellow and Teal).
Why Royal Pop?
The name dates back to the ’80s, when the original Swatch Pop was introduced. Built around a pin or clip system, the watch head gave the wearer flexibility to flaunt it in multiple ways. Whether it’s pinned to your outfit or clipped onto a bracelet, the Royal Pop maintains the same aesthetics but with a twist. The watch clip comes with a calfskin lanyard—in three lengths—and various Bioceramic clip holders available.
When will it be released?
The Royal Pop collection will be released on 16 May. In the meantime, take a closer look at the collection on www.swatch.com/my.
Stay tuned for more updates.
Amalina Anuar
Amalina Anuar is the Digital Director of Harper's BAZAAR Malaysia. With fashion as her first love, she also has a passion for the beauty realm. While she often showcases neutral tones in her wardrobe, her music playlist is just as vibrant and you'll find her enjoying a good tune throughout the day. A connoisseur of cinematic delights, she finds joy in the heartwarming escapism of rom-coms and the soul-stirring narratives of tear-jerkers.
