Swatch is gearing up to release a highly anticipated collaboration with Audemars Piguet, the iconic luxury watchmaker. This collaboration, rumored to be called the Royal Pop, promises to be a game-changer in the watch industry. The article delves into the history of the collaboration, starting with a mysterious newspaper campaign that featured colorful lanyards and a comic book-style font. The author, Johnny Brayson, provides an in-depth analysis of the clues and hints dropped by Swatch, leading to the revelation that the collaboration is with Audemars Piguet, a brand not part of the Swatch Group.
Brayson argues that the Royal Pop has the potential to surpass the success of the MoonSwatch, which was a collaboration with Omega. He highlights the street cred and name recognition of Audemars Piguet, especially in the hip-hop and streetwear communities, as a key factor in the collaboration's potential success. The author also speculates that the Royal Pop will feature the Royal Oak's signature octagonal case, likely in BioCeramic or plastic, powered by a Sistem 51 automatic movement, and paired with a lanyard.
One of the intriguing aspects of the collaboration is the potential absence of a wristworn element. Brayson suggests that Swatch might forgo a strap or bracelet, making the Royal Pop more of an art object than a typical watch. This would align with the pop art and comic book style of the marketing campaign. The author concludes by expressing excitement for the May 16 release, promising to provide coverage of the AP x Swatch Royal Pop collaboration.
