Audemars Piguet Just Dropped A New Collab With 1017 ALYX 9SM — Creating 4 New References

Audemars Piguet Just Dropped A New Collab With 1017 ALYX 9SM — Creating 4 New References

Adrienne Faurote
By Adrienne Faurote August 27, 2023

Behold, a collaboration none of us were expecting. Audemars Piguet joins forces with American designer Matthew Williams, founder of 1017 ALYX 9SM, to introduce an avant-garde collection that marries Audemars Piguet’s distinct aesthetic with Williams’ refined touch. Williams and the brand are known for their effortlessly cool and contemporary edge — and coming together with Audemars, that is the exact aesthetic they achieved. The collaboration marks a milestone in the brand’s history, resulting in the unveiling of four new Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore references, along with a Royal Oak piece.

Audemars Piguet Just Dropped A New Collab With 1017 ALYX 9SM — Creating 4 New ReferencesPhoto Credit: Courtesy of Audemars Piguet

The unprecedented collaboration between Audemars Piguet and 1017 ALYX 9SM, founded by Chicago-born designer Matthew Williams in 2015, encapsulates a synergy of avant-garde spirit, attention to detail, and mastery of craft. Known for his innovative use of materials, Williams’ disruptive creations harmonize with Audemars Piguet’s commitment to precision and excellence. This dynamic partnership is a testament to the brand’s exploration of diverse creative realms, showcasing its enduring connection to the world of fashion.

Audemars Piguet Just Dropped A New Collab With 1017 ALYX 9SM — Creating 4 New References
Matthew Williams

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Audemars Piguet

The collaboration introduces a minimalist collection of timepieces that range from 37 to 42 mm, allowing wearers to express their individuality while bridging the realms of fashion and Haute Horlogerie. With options in 18-carat yellow gold, 18-carat white gold, or a two-tone version, each piece features the dual signature of “Audemars Piguet” and “1017 ALYX 9SM” on the dial.

The collection comprises two Royal Oak models and two Royal Oak Offshore models. Notably, the Royal Oak models remove hour-markers and date apertures for an elegantly clean dial. The Royal Oak Offshore models follow a similar theme by retaining only essential information on the dial, creating a harmonious balance between sophistication and modernity.

Audemars Piguet Just Dropped A New Collab With 1017 ALYX 9SM — Creating 4 New ReferencesPhoto Credit: Courtesy of Audemars Piguet

The four references are powered by three latest-generation movements that showcase Audemars Piguet’s dedication to technical mastery. The Calibre 5909, Calibre 4409, and Calibre 4404 movements, each tailored to specific models, ensure precision and reliability. The oscillating weight, a distinctive element of the unique piece, features an engraving of the 1017 ALYX 9SM signature and technical references inspired by Williams’ design aesthetic.

Audemars Piguet Just Dropped A New Collab With 1017 ALYX 9SM — Creating 4 New ReferencesPhoto Credit: Courtesy of Audemars Piguet

For an extra special moment, The two-toned Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph piece — combining 18-carat yellow gold and stainless steel with a distinctive black PVD-coated gold dial — was auctioned during the collaboration’s launch party in Tokyo on August 24, with proceeds supporting play-based learning initiatives for disadvantaged children. The funds raised will benefit organizations like Kids in Motion and Right to Play, reflecting Audemars Piguet’s commitment to social responsibility and Matthew Williams’ dedication to charitable causes.

Audemars Piguet Just Dropped A New Collab With 1017 ALYX 9SM — Creating 4 New ReferencesPhoto Credit: Courtesy of Audemars Piguet

The collaboration between Audemars Piguet and 1017 ALYX 9SM not only celebrates innovation and design but also represents a fusion of vision and purpose, resulting in a collection that embodies modernity, elegance, and philanthropy.