Building on its tradition of limited editions inspired by pop culture, Audemars Piguet (AP) has teamed up with KAWS for its latest creation the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon Companion 43 mm. The contemporary artist, Brian Donnelly, better known as KAWS, brings his iconic Companion figure to life on the dial.
The character, depicted as if pressing against the crystal, is intricately crafted as a titanium miniature sculpture, featuring a flying tourbillon at its center. Thanks to the innovative cal. 2979 movement with a peripheral time display, the hour and minute hands elegantly sweep around and beneath the Companion, allowing the figure to dominate the dial.
First Impressions
The Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon by KAWS stands out as Audemars Piguet’s most impressive collab yet. While some of AP’s past partnerships leaned too heavily on minimalism and the Marvel editions sparked mixed reactions, this piece has a perfect balance. Among contemporary art collaborations, it holds its own alongside the Hublot Classic Fusion Takashi Murakami in terms of allure—though it’s far less accessible price-wise compared to the time-only Hublot.
The design of the KAWS tourbillon is cohesive and visually striking. Framed by an industrial, technical-style chapter ring, the “Companion” figure feels perfectly integrated. The oversized, visible gears driving the peripheral hands further enhance the piece’s mechanical and artistic appeal.
Admittedly, the KAWS tourbillon is a straightforward representation of the artist’s most iconic creation, so it’s not particularly groundbreaking in concept—but it’s executed exceptionally well. The depiction of “Companion” peering through the crystal is visually impactful, with thoughtful touches like the “Xs” on the bezel nuts adding to its charm. The movement deserves special mention for its bespoke features, including the unique “padded” bridge tailored specifically for this model.
Additionally, the KAWS tourbillon shares the same dimensions as the Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds, making it surprisingly wearable for a watch of its size.
Companion
Inspired by Mickey Mouse but featuring “X” eyes and bone-shaped ears, Companion was created in 1999 and has become KAWS’ signature work. It has appeared on everything from t-shirts and sneakers to toys—and now, the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon.
This 250-piece limited edition is based on the latest-generation Royal Oak Concept. Crafted entirely in monochromatic titanium (with a black ceramic crown), the case measures a bold 43 mm in diameter and 17.4 mm thick. Despite its size, its curved profile and lightweight titanium construction make it surprisingly wearable.
True to Royal Oak tradition, the case features alternating finishes, with matte sandblasting framed by raised, polished borders. The bezel showcases a frosted surface complemented by polished bevels, while the customary slots in the bezel nuts have been replaced by KAWS’ signature “X”.
The case’s thickness allows it to house the Companion figure, which sits atop a radially brushed titanium plate. Made entirely of titanium, the miniature sculpture is depicted pressing its hands against the crystal. Its frosted and brushed surfaces mirror the case’s finishing, while the twin “X” eyes are subtly shaded with pale grey lacquer.
At the heart of the figure is a flying tourbillon, symbolizing Companion’s “heart.” Surrounding it are hour and minute hands mounted on a peripheral track, freeing the entire dial to showcase the sculpture.
Powering the watch is the cal. 2979, a newly developed manual-winding movement with a 72-hour power reserve. While it shares the architecture of AP’s other tourbillon calibres, it was conceived specifically for the KAWS tourbillon and will likely feature in future collaborations with sculptural dials. The movement includes unique details, such as a barrel ratchet wheel open-worked into an “X” and a large, “padded” plate echoing the aesthetics of KAWS’ characters.
The Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “Companion” is a fusion of contemporary art and haute horology, showcasing both bold creativity and expert craftsmanship.
Key Details and Pricing
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “Companion” 43 mm
Reference: 26656TI.GG.D019VE.01
- Diameter: 43 mm
- Height: 17.4 mm
- Material: Titanium with black ceramic crown
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Water Resistance: 100 m
Movement: Cal. 2979
- Functions: Peripheral hours and minutes, flying tourbillon
- Winding: Manual
- Frequency: 21,600 beats per hour (3 Hz)
- Power Reserve: 72 hours
Strap:
- Light grey calfskin with a titanium folding clasp
- Additional dark grey calfskin strap included
Limited Edition: Limited to 250 pieces
Availability: Exclusively at AP boutiques and AP Houses
Price: $226,504 USD. Inquire through Audemars Piguet
For more information, visit audemarspiguet.com.
