Thursday 20 October 2011

Thurs Oct 20th: Swatch archive at Phillips de Pury "The Blum Collection"











Phillips de Pury

One of the most impressive complete collections of Swatch watches is touring a few cities before it is ultimately divided up at auction in Hong Kong next month. It's an incredible accumulation of more than 4,350 pieces comprising of a large number of original prototypes, hybrids and production variations never actually offered for sale. Many of the rare prototypes date from the development period just before the commercial release of the first Swatch watches in the early 1980s. I was really excited to see the comprehensive collection of Keith Haring designs which was poignant having spotted a Haring print sweater on the way to the gallery - his work is forever omnipresent in his absence. Another highlight was this Andrew Logan Jelly Fish style from 1985 which perfectly demonstrates the brand's awareness for collaborating with specialised and unique artists. Ive also photographed my obligatory fave rainbow and spectrum inspired designs from the catalog currently on show in London at Phillips de Pury. The showcase is on display until 25th October before being flown to Shanghai for the final leg of the tour, ending up in Hong Kong to go on sale on November 24th. If you are a Swatch enthusiast like myself, this is an unmissable opportunity to see so many designs all together under one roof ......... unless you are one of the few world collectors!

Research the history and archive of Swatch designs here.

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