Hublot’s Classic Fusion Balloon Dog takes inspiration from Jeff Koons’ iconic mirrored sculptures. Known for blending conceptual art, pop culture, craft and
appropriation, the American artist’s first Balloon Dog sculpture appeared in 1993 as part of his Celebration series. While Koons has created many iconic works, his balloon sculptures permeate pop culture. Instantly recognizable to both collectors and the general public. Hublot worked with Koons to reinterpret the Classic Fusion through the sculptural language of inflatable forms. Known for its sleek profile, the watch was re-engineered to create the illusion of volume.
The 42 mm Classic Fusion Balloon Dog uses inflated components, domed surfaces and convex lines to create the illusion of a watch shaped by air pressure. Multiple elements have been reshaped. From the doomed sapphire crystal and titanium screw heads to the convex ‘puffy’ dial and sculptural case. Koons-inspired details include; a ‘balloon’ crown in rubber-molded aluminum, a decorative ‘balloon tail’ at 10:30, a Balloon Dog-shaped seconds hand counterweight and inflated indexes and hands filled with Super-LumiNova. The illusion of internal pressure extends to the smooth, padded metallic leather strap and softened attachment points.
The Hublot x Jeff Koons watch is available in mirror-polished stainless steel or polished anodized aluminum. Hublot chose aluminum specifically for its ability to reproduce the vivid, saturated tones associated with Jeff Koons’ work. Limited to 200 pieces per edition, the aluminum watches are available in a red or blue. Each edition comes in a color-matched box topped by a chromed finish Balloon Dog.
Classic Fusion Balloon Dog ($25,100.00) – hublot.com
