HUBLOT and Takashi Murakami have outdone themselves once again. Their recent masterpiece, the MP-15 Takashi Murakami Tourbillon Sapphire Rainbow, is a dazzling fusion of art and horology.
This limited-edition timepiece, restricted to just 20 pieces, is a breathtaking reinterpretation of Murakami’s iconic smiling flower. The flower, now a vibrant sapphire sculpture, is adorned with a riot of colourful gemstones. At its heart, HUBLOT’s first central tourbillon movement pulsates, adding a mesmerising mechanical dance to the visual spectacle.
Prepare to be captivated by this extraordinary collaboration.
Takashi Murakami, a visionary artist, shattered expectations by creating the “Superflat” movement. This movement, encompassing everything from fine art to commercial media, blurred the lines between high and low culture. Murakami masterfully blended traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary art and culture.
Among his iconic creations, the smiling flower stands out. HUBLOT, recognising its timeless appeal, has collaborated with Murakami to bring this iconic symbol to life on the wrist, resulting in several stunning timepieces.
The MP-15 is a testament to a beautiful friendship, forged in a shared passion for pushing boundaries. Since 2021, HUBLOT and Takashi Murakami have been redefining the limits of art and horology. After their iconic Classic Fusion models and groundbreaking NFT collaboration, they unveiled the MP-15 Takashi Murakami Tourbillon of Only Watch 2023.
This masterpiece reimagines Murakami’s iconic smiling flower, transforming it into a wearable sculpture that blends art, watchmaking and gem setting. HUBLOT, a pioneer in gem-setting, has masterfully crafted a perfect rainbow effect, carefully selecting gemstones that transition seamlessly from one hue to the next.
Hewn from a single block of sapphire crystal, the 42mm smiling flower case is a masterpiece of precision. Its twelve petals, each inlaid with polished titanium, are a canvas for 444 vibrant gemstones. Rubies, pink sapphires, amethysts, blue sapphires, blue topazes, tsavorites and yellow or orange sapphires dance across the petals, a chromatic symphony that mirrors Murakami’s iconic artwork.
The MP-15 isn’t just a gem-setting marvel; it’s a mechanical marvel too. At its heart lies the HUB9015 calibre, showcasing HUBLOT’s first central flying tourbillon. A mesmerising spectacle, the tourbillon dances beneath a sapphire crystal engraved with a playful face. Powered by a manual-winding movement with a 120-hour power reserve, it’s a timepiece built for adventure. To make winding a breeze, HUBLOT has included a rechargeable stylus that effortlessly winds the twin barrels.
This sculptural masterpiece isn’t just about art; it’s a testament to innovative watchmaking. The MP-15’s central flying tourbillon takes centre stage, its intricate dance unimpeded. Two slender hands, positioned beneath the tourbillon cage, sweep around the periphery, indicating the hours and minutes. A flange ring, adorned with twelve colourful baton hour markers, ensures effortless timekeeping.
The skeletonised movement, with its components seemingly floating around in space, adds to the visual intrigue. This is watchmaking at its finest.
The final touch is a transparent strap adorned with Murakami’s signature flower motif. It’s a whimsical and playful addition that perfectly complements the watch’s artistic nature. The sapphire crystal deployant buckle, a testament to HUBLOT’s mastery of materials, adds a touch of luxury and durability.
A bold artistic statement, the MP-15 Takashi Murakami Tourbillon Sapphire Rainbow is a limited-edition masterpiece. With only 20 pieces available, this timepiece is destined to become a coveted collector’s item. Art lovers and watch enthusiasts alike will appreciate its audacity and complexity.
