The Marvel Universe on dials by Audemars Piguet.
Audemars Piguet and partner Marvel Studios have decided to stick to tried and trusted techniques for this spring's collaboration. The screenwriters have brought many superheroes from comic-book pages to screens, with a few changes but without losing their uplifting stories.
And the designers at Audemars Piguet have decided to bring the techniques developed for the Royal Oak Concept “Black Panther” Flying Tourbillon to their novelty for 2023.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “Spider-Man”
Key ideas behind the design: let the imposing figure of the main hero dominate the entire dial, framed by a reinterpreted version of the Royal Oak Concept's octagonal bezel and case.
And don't forget the tourbillon! The 42-mm case made of lightweight titanium is still equipped with a bezel made of black ceramic coupled with an integrated bracelet.
The approach to working with colored highlights has changed. The most vivid highlights on the "Black Panther" watch were the purple inner bezel mirrored on the caseback, along with the strap. The figure of the actual superhero remained in the dark.
For the new Royal Oak Concept “Spider-Man” Tourbillon Spider-Man is wearing his favorite red-and-blue costume, while all other details remain black, apart from the additional red rubber strap.
The old movement has been replaced by the new manually wound Caliber 2974 based on Caliber 2948. More details of the movement are openworked here: the artists decided not to clutter the dial with added details, spinning a web for Spider-Man out of the movement's components.
One amusing detail can be found on the caseback, where not only can you see the movement, you can also see the superhero's feet. Like in 2021, Audemars Piguet's limited superhero edition of just 250 pieces is accompanied by another edition made as a unique piece.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept “Black Suit Spider-Man” Tourbillon
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept “Black Suit Spider-Man” Tourbillon
The Royal Oak Concept “Black Suit Spider-Man” Tourbillon in its white-gold engraved case sold for USD 6.2 million at the launch event in Dubai.
In contrast with the colored-costume edition, the superhero on the unique piece is dressed in black, like in the comic-book illustrations from the Amazing Spider-Man #252 (1984).
As per tradition, the proceeds from the sale go to charities supporting young people from disadvantaged communities. Bids are rising: the gold charity version of the "Black Panther" sold for USD 5.2 million back in 2021.