Hublot and Daniel Arsham unveil the $88,000 Arsham Droplet convertible pocket watch.
In an era where tradition is becoming more and more comfortable with innovation, Hublot and contemporary artist and architect Daniel Arsham have seamlessly merged both concepts with their latest creation: the Arsham Droplet. This groundbreaking collaboration marks a significant leap in redefining what a pocket watch can be. By blending antique aesthetics with cutting-edge materials and design, the Arsham Droplet transforms a timeless accessory into a modern masterpiece that can be worn or displayed in three distinctive ways.
Hublot, known for its pioneering spirit and technical prowess, has partnered with New York based artist Arsham, celebrated for turning everyday objects into what he calls future relics, to offer a fresh interpretation of the classic pocket watch. The Arsham Droplet is more than just a visionary pocket watch, it also acts as a small table clock, or a pendant.
The Hublot X Arsham watch is convertible and can be worn as pocket or pendant watch or as a small desk clock.
Inspired by the fluid, organic shapes found in nature, the Arsham Droplet showcases Hublot’s dedication to detail and innovation. Constructed from a deft combination of titanium, rubber, and sapphire crystal, the watch is both durable and visually striking. Its ergonomic design, measuring 73.2mm in length, 52.6mm in width, and 22.5mm in thickness, fits comfortably in the hand, providing a tactile experience that is both immersive and engaging.
At the heart of the Arsham Droplet is Hublot’s 223-part manual-wind Meca-10 manufacture movement. This intricate mechanism, featuring a 10-day power reserve, ensures that the timepiece remains functional for extended periods without requiring frequent winding. This feature not only enhances the user’s connection with the watch but also exemplifies the blend of form and function that both Hublot and Arsham strive for.
Limited to just 99 pieces, the Arsham Droplet is a collector’s dream. Its distinctive drop shape and intricate craftsmanship set it apart from traditional watches. The titanium case, coupled with rubber bumpers in Arsham Green, symbolizes a bold departure from conventional watchmaking norms. The timepiece can be transformed with ease, from a pocket watch to a pendant, or even a table clock, thanks to the two titanium chains equipped with Hublot’s patented “one-click” system.
Daniel Arsham in his New York City studio.
The watch’s sandwich construction features two meticulously crafted domed teardrop-shaped crystals, with an open-worked titanium case that resembles delicate lacework. This intricate design is complemented by Arsham’s monogram stamped onto the custom rubber bumpers. The case is engineered with a double sealing system, incorporating 17 O-ring seals to ensure water resistance up to 30 meters.
The Arsham Droplet boasts a semi-matte varnished dial and hands in Arsham Green, along with the 3D Arsham Index at 12 o’clock, enhance the watch’s aesthetic appeal. The HUB1201 Manufacture MECA-10 manual winding movement, with its grey PVD treatment and luminescent green accents, adds a touch of modernity to the timepiece. With a power reserve of 240 hours, a frequency of 3 Hz, and comprising 223 components and 24 jewels, the movement is a testament to Hublot’s engineering excellence.
Presented with a choice of a full titanium necklace or pocket chain, both featuring polished links and shiny microblasted finishes, the Arsham Droplet also comes with a table stand, crafted from microblasted titanium and polished green Arsham color sphere with a mineral magnifying glass that allows the watch to be displayed as a stunning piece of art. It retails for $88,000.
Just 99 pieces of the Hublot Arsham Droplet watch will be made.
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