Swatch champions Basquiat’s timeless artworks in new collaboration

Swiss watch brand Swatch is back with another playful collaboration, this time with a collection that pays homage to the revolutionary artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.

This new collaboration marks the fifth collection of the Swatch Art Journey 2023, which is a project that focuses on the brand’s love of trailblazing artists through unique watch designs. What better artist to collaborate with than the contemporary, vibrant works of Basquiat?

Basquiat was an artist that broke the boundaries of conventional art by infusing street and subcultures into references in his works. His art was inspired by his Puerto Rican/Haitian roots, the vibrant jazz community and his home city of New York.

The Swatch x Jean-Michel Basquiat collection is made up of three watches, all named after his iconic works. Hollywood Africans, for example, is a bright yellow watch featuring the painting’s trio of figures - musician Rammellzee, painter Toxic and Basquiat.

Ishtar combines text and Roman numerals on the black dial with the strap covered with references from the original painting.

Lastly, Untitled features the instantly-recognisable Basquiat crown, which is stamped boldly on the watch's dial.

Each watch is adorned with one additional loop. The first loop showcases the artist's name, acting as the artist's signature. The second features the crown, a symbol Basquiat frequented in his work.

The limited edition collection will be available on a first-come, first-served basis online and in stores. Orders placed online will be shipped from the release date (18 May).