Hublot Broderie Skull watch (look hard to see the skull motif on the dial)
In the past few years we have witnessed a renaissance of interest in displaying artistic and stylized skulls on jewelry and even on timepieces. In fact, some watch brands have made entire collections dedicated the skull motif – not just in Gothic renditions, but also in lively, colorful versions that recall festive celebrations of life. Here at BaselWorld 2016, you see several strong interpretations.
Hublot, for instance, unveils the Big Bang Broderie Sugar Skull watch, a fusion of art, femininity and life. The Big Bang 41MM Broderie Sugar Skull is a true fashion statement. To depict the very high-styled skull motif on the watch dial and strap, Hublot turns to the art of embroidery – taking its cure from fashion, lingerie and feminine touches.
For this watch, the brand is inspired by the embroidery of Saint-Gall, which is reinterpreted in a modern statement of turquoise, navy blue, pale pink, fuchsia, yellow, orange, and violet Lurex threads. Additionally, the skull motif on the dial is accented with gemstones to create an even stronger color association. With 41mm cases crafted in black ceramic and adorned with gem set bezels, the Big Bang Broderie Sugar Skull is a deft blend of sweet and savory. Each version is being created in a limited edition of 200 pieces.
Dial of the new Romain Jerome Skylab 48 Skull watch
Skulls are also making their creative way into the Romain Jerome line with the new Skylab 48 Skull collection. The 48mm timepiece – with skeletonized dial — represents a nod to the “Skulls n’ wheels” trend of placing skulls on car wheels and other parts. Each watch features a two-color case with a blend of steel lugs, and black PVD coated bezel. The Skylab 48 Skull is the brand’s first skeletonized movement. The skeletonized skull shape is held in place by two screws to allow for maximum viewing of the mechanical movement with single barrel visible from the dial side at 6 o’clock. T
The movement of the Skylab 48 Skull is composed of three layers: the plate, the bridges and the skull applique – all of which add dramatic depth. Additionally, the skull is created in brightly colored aluminium (in a host of shades from lime green to lemon yellow, red, purple and more). Not only is the anodized color alluring, but also the process makes the material stronger and more resistant to corrosion. Each color will be made in a limited edition of just nine pieces.
Fiona Kruger Petit Skull Black
Also thinking of the skull in celebratory terms, independent watchmaker Fiona Kruger draws her inspiration from the Mexican celebration of Dia de Los Muertos, and builds beautifully decorated skeleton movements with skull motif. Each watch is created in a limited edition and all are hand-made in Switzerland and powered by Swiss mechanical movements with five days of power reserve. The dials are hand decorated and built in three layers designed to enhance the overall aesthetics of the mechanical movement. Kruger’s watches are all designed and executed by her and each has its own feminine or masculine appeal.
