Audemars Piguet presents the Royal Oak Concept “Black Panther” Flying Tourbillon
Swiss Haute Horlogerie manufacturer Audemars Piguet has unveiled the first watch in its collection dedicated to the heroes of the Marvel universe, the Royal Oak Concept “Black Panther” Flying Tourbillon. This limited edition of 250 watches was revealed on April 10 during the “Audemars Piguet & Friends, Live Show from Los Angeles” virtual event organized by the brand to celebrate its new long-term collaboration with Marvel. The event was presented by actor and comedian Kevin Hart and Audemars Piguet CEO François-Henry Bennahmias and featured appearances by LeBron James, Serena Williams, Ian Poulter, Anthony Joshua, Lu Han, Jon Gray and Mark Ronson.
The presentation was accompanied by an auction to benefit the “Fostering Equity Through Changemaking” educational program developed by the two non-profit organizations First Book and Ashoka, in collaboration with Audemars Piguet. This program aims to encourage young people from low-income and socially excluded communities to become agents of change. Kyle Zimmer, Founder and CEO of First Book and a member of Ashoka’s Board of Directors and Senior Fellow, introduced the auction led by Michael Friedman, Head of Complicated Watches at Audemars Piguet, who has extensive experience with auction houses such as Christie’s, Sotheby’s and Antiquorum. Bidders from all over the world competed for the 4 lots on sale – including a unique version of the Royal Oak Concept “Black Panther” Tourbillon Volant. The event also featured live performances by R&B band Free Nationals and Grammy-nominated R&B singer and songwriter Givēon, before concluding with the presentation of the new collection in various cities around the world.
The Royal Oak Concept “Black Panther” Flying Tourbillon
Combining ancestral know-how and cutting-edge technology, the Royal Oak Concept “Black Panther” Flying Tourbillon Limited Edition celebrates the values of tradition, innovation and family personified by Marvel’s Black Panther hero, dear to the heart of the Manufacture. The futuristic aesthetics of this 42 mm watch, powered by the caliber 2965, echo the high-tech suit worn by the superhero. The dial combines a flying tourbillon at 6 o’clock with a contemporary reproduction of Black Panther, sculpted in white gold and painted by hand.
A unique piece to support the next generation of change-makers
During the auction, a unique piece of the Royal Oak Concept “Black Panther” Flying Tourbillon was auctioned to support the educational program set up by Audemars Piguet, First Book and Ashoka. The watch features an 18K white gold case and bezel with a fully hand-engraved motif inspired by the Marvel character Black Panther. The dial features a detailed reproduction of the superhero, whose costume has been highlighted with purple paint to enhance the contrasts. The words “Unique piece” appear on the purple flange visible through the sapphire back. At the event, Serena Williams, Ian Poulter and Anthony Joshua also offered lots to bidders in support of the educational program.
This joint program aims to help students from disadvantaged families and socially excluded communities by providing them with the tools to initiate lasting change in their communities. Funds raised from the auction will allow the program to reach an initial group of 17,000 First Book educators and approximately 500,000 students, ages 10-18, across the United States – with the goal of expanding the program internationally in the coming years. Students will learn to collaborate with each other and with educators to identify problems, implement solutions and develop a more stable and equitable world.