Hublot presents the first collaboration with brand ambassador and acclaimed contemporary artist Daniel Arsham. Named Arsham Droplet, it is a timepiece that reimagines the classic pocket watch by blending organic form with technical materials. This piece of mechanical art can be enjoyed in three different ways: as a pocket watch, a pendant or as an eye-catching table clock.
“The Arsham Droplet is a true testament to the power of collaboration. By combining Hublot’s technical expertise with my own artistic vision, we have created a timepiece that transcends the traditional pocket watch, blending the past, present and future in a captivating and unexpected way,” says Daniel Arsham.
Presented as Hublot’s brand ambassador last year, Daniel Arsham is a New York-based artist whose practice spans fine art, architecture, performance, and film. Arsham’s works meld the past, present and future, showcasing the malleability and power of nostalgia, often through references to moments of the late 20th century.
Arsham, whose works have been exhibited in numerous museums and art events around the world, often crafts his sculptures out of geological material such as sand, selenite and volcanic ash. These materials allow for the appearance and aesthetic of erosion or, as Arsham has dubbed them, “future relics.” Last year, as part of his introduction as Hublot’s ambassador, Arsham unveiled ‘Light & Time’ – a temporary 20-metre ice sundial in Zermatt, Switzerland.
The Arsham Droplet, limited to just 99 examples, is inspired by the organic, fluid forms found in nature. Crafted from a harmonious blend of titanium, rubber and sapphire crystal, it measures 73.2mm in length, 52.6 mm in width and 22.5 mm in thickness. These dimensions, along with its ergonomic and tactile design, mean the Arsham Droplet fits perfectly in one’s hand.
Featuring a sandwich construction, with two exquisitely crafted domed teardrop-shaped crystals, the open-worked titanium case resembles delicate lace woven in a droplet pattern. The side bumpers are in a custom Arsham Green rubber and with the artist’s monogram stamped onto the surface. The timepiece also displays Hublot’s iconic design elements, including the brand’s signature six H-shaped screws.
At the heart of the watch lies Hublot’s iconic Meca-10 manufacture movement, boasting an impressive 10-day power reserve. The case has a double sealing system, with no less than 17 O-ring seals. This enables a water resistance of 30 meters.
The organic design of the titanium case is complemented by two titanium chains, each featuring Hublot’s patented double “one-click” system for seamless attachment. The timepiece can be worn in multiple ways from a necklace to a pocket watch, or displayed as a sculptural centrepiece on its decorative titanium and mineral glass table stand.
“Together with Daniel, we made the impossible possible,” says Hublot’s CEO Ricardo Guadalupe. “The Arsham Droplet is a testament to Hublot’s unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of both form and function. This groundbreaking timepiece is a true work of art, seamlessly blending our horological expertise with Daniel Arsham’s visionary artistic vision.”
By incorporating innovative advancements in watchmaking technology, a durable construction, exceptional craftsmanship and a distinctive design, the Arsham Droplet is a limited-edition masterpiece that is destined to become a cherished collector’s item.
