The MP-15 Takashi Murakami Tourbillon Only Watch is a remarkable timepiece that combines exquisite craftsmanship with artistic inspiration. Designed by renowned Japanese artist Takashi Murakami in collaboration with Hublot, this limited-edition watch showcases the brand’s first central flying tourbillon. With its captivating design and charitable purpose, the MP-15 is set to make a lasting impact.
Takashi Murakami’s artistry revolves around floral compositions, and his collaboration with Hublot has been a testament to his creative vision. While their previous co-creations were produced in limited-edition series, the MP-15 stands out as a truly unique masterpiece. Not only is it a one-of-a-kind creation, but it also features Hublot’s first-ever central tourbillon.
The central tourbillon serves as a symbol of Hublot’s commitment to Haute Horlogerie and represents the fusion of art and horological design. It takes center stage physically, drawing attention to its intricate craftsmanship. Beyond its physical presence, the tourbillon holds a deeper meaning. It represents the hearts of those who purchase the watch at the charity auction in support of research against Duchenne’s disease, as well as the hearts of the children fighting the disease.
The MP-15 presented a substantial challenge for Hublot because it needed blending the aesthetic components of the center tourbillon with the technological needs. Takashi Murakami had explicitly demanded a central tourbillon, and Hublot eagerly accepted the task. The ultimate product is a captivating watch with a central flying tourbillon that appears to be hanging in mid-air. Two hands pass beneath its cage to show the hours and minutes, gravitating towards 12 luminescent indices that mimic the brilliant hues of the Hublot for Only Watch 2023 edition.
The MP-15 boasts a manual movement with two barrels, providing an impressive 150-hour power reserve. This extended power reserve is a rare feature for a timepiece of this nature, making it all the more exceptional. Through the sapphire case back, one can admire the generously proportioned barrels, mounted in series on a single plane, showcasing the intricate mechanics that power the watch.
Every aspect of the MP-15 Takashi Murakami Tourbillon embodies the artist’s colorful and whimsical poetry. The watch has 12 petals that are generously set with 444 jewels, providing a bright and happy aesthetic. The petals are oriented towards the center of the action, replicating the natural creation of a growing flower. The colors and brilliance of the jewels, carefully picked to evoke the 2023 Only Watch, provide a touch of enchantment to the item, evoking a child’s artistic creation with vibrant crayons.
Adding to its whimsical charm, the MP-15 reveals a laser engraving underneath its domed sapphire crystal. The engraving depicts a broad smile with two smiling eyes, a characteristic element of Takashi Murakami’s artistic universe. This colorful piece invites wearers to immerse themselves in Murakami’s lively imagination, capturing the energy of a child’s wonder and curiosity.
Aside from its extraordinary design and artistic value, the MP-15 provides a one-of-a-kind calligraphy experience. Takashi Murakami, who is passionate in calligraphy, designed a one-of-a-kind calligraphy piece called “Time of Rainbow” exclusively for this watch. His return to calligraphy, inspired by his mother’s love of the art form, lends a personal touch to the watch and increases its exclusivity.
The MP-15 Takashi Murakami Tourbillon Only Watch is a collector’s item that embodies the fusion of art and horology. With its innovative design, charitable purpose, and artistic inspirations, it stands as a testament to the creative collaboration between Hublot and Takashi Murakami. This unique timepiece is set to make waves in the world of Haute Horlogerie and captivate watch enthusiasts and art connoisseurs alike.
