Hublot x Daniel Arsham: Redefining Time
Hublot’s collaboration with designer Daniel Arsham to create the Arsham Droplet has elevated the elegance and intrigue of the classic pocket watch.
Few accessories that indicate fashion and personal style are more intriguing than the classic pocket watch. Invariably, you want to know more about the person who carries one. What is their backstory? What led them to this albeit rare interest in such a distinctive timepiece? What does it say about the rest of their lives? A pocket watch can be the opening act to a much more interesting feature show, or a curtain you want to pull back to reveal more.
Luxury Swiss watchmaker Hublot has revealed just such a captivating accessory, the result of a groundbreaking collaboration with acclaimed contemporary artist Daniel Arsham. The Arsham Droplet is a revolutionary timepiece that reimagines the classic pocket watch.
Hublot is a leader in innovation, and in partnering its technical craftsmanship with the artist’s future- forward vision has created an incredible piece of art, a timepiece that can be enjoyed in three different ways: as a pocket watch, a pendant or an eye-catching table clock. Daniel Arsham is known for his unique talent of transforming everyday objects into “future relics” and the Arsham Droplet seamlessly unites Hublot’s technical mastery with Arsham’s distinctive artistic vision, which has resulted in a bold fusion of past, present and future.
Crafted from a harmonious blend of titanium, rubber and sapphire crystal, the Arsham Droplet is a further testament to Hublot’s unparalleled attention to detail and commitment to innovation, hallmarks of the famed watchmaker since its founding in 1980 by Italian Carlo Crocco shortly after he moved to Switzerland. Crocco named the company Hublot after the French word for “porthole.”
Its ergonomic shape, at 73.2 mm long, 52.6 mm wide and 22.5 mm thick, fits perfectly into the hand. At the heart of the artistry is its technical mastery, Hublot’s iconic Meca-10 movement, which boasts an impressive 10-day power reserve that ensures the timepiece can be enjoyed for extended periods without it needing to be wound, although winding a pocket watch is one of life’s unabashedly simple joys for those captivated by timepieces.
Hublot ambassador Daniel Arsham has partnered with a wide range of notable figures and brands over the past two decades, including Merce Cunningham, Tiffany, Porsche, Adidas and Dior. Fusion is his guiding star and his past projects have showcased his ability to innovatively blend art, design and popular culture. This collaboration with Hublot is a natural extension of his artistic practice, as he and the brand share a commitment to pushing the boundaries of their respective fields.
Hublot Ambassador Daniel Arsham Has Partnered With A Wide Range Of Notable Figures And Brands Over The Past Two Decades.
The Arsham Droplet is limited to just 99 pieces, meaning that this masterpiece of modern watchmaking is a true collector’s item. It is a glorious example of out-of-the-box thinking, with its distinctive rounded drop shape and unparalleled complexity challenging the conventional notions of what a pocket watch can be. Most striking is its organic design, which is complemented by its titanium case and rubber bumpers, signalling its bold departure from traditional watchmaking norms.
Presented with two titanium chains, each featuring Hublot’s patented double “one-click” system for seamless attachment, the timepiece can be worn as a necklace or a pocket watch or displayed as a sculpture on its decorative titanium and mineral glass table stand, sure to be the artistic centrepiece of any room.
Featuring a sandwich construction with two exquisitely crafted domed teardrop-shaped crystals, the openwork titanium case resembles delicate lace woven into a droplet pattern. Each side bumper is in Arsham’s custom-designed green rubber, complete with his monogram stamped onto the surface.
Incorporating the latest advancements in watchmaking technology, the Arsham Droplet boasts a water resistance of 30 metres, ensuring reliability and durability in any setting. The titanium case boasts a double-sealing system with no less than 17 O-ring seals, which guarantees a perfect seal. The timepiece also displays the brand’s iconic design elements, including Hublot’s six signature H-shaped screws.
The classic pocket watch is an intriguing, quiet and subtle statement of style and sophistication. With its exceptional craftmanship and innovative design, this limited-edition masterpiece is destined to become a cherished collector’s item. Truly and in every way, Hublot’s Arsham Droplet tells so much more than simply the time.
