BURO Watch List: Timepieces to Embolden Your Sense of Whimsy

In a world so volatile, a touch of optimism goes a long way. That is why, this month, we’re shining a light on five stunning creations that come from a place where imagination knows no boundaries. These timepieces are poised to evoke the sense of joy and hope in the wearer as they bring colours, forms, and creativity into play. From the modern and avant-garde horological automata at Louis Vuitton to the hotly anticipated collaboration between Audemars Piguet and Swatch, our BURO Watch List invites you into a dimension where time tells a story.

THE KANDY FANTASY BY ALEXANDER SHOROKHOFF

If there’s one word that can succinctly describe the Kandy Fantasy watch, a tour de force by Alexander Shorokhoff, it’s hypnotic. Known for its daring designs, the German watchmaker fits a melodic swirl of tones and textures within a rectangular stainless-steel case. The dream-like dial features a black-and-white central motif, a colourful inlay framing the date window at 6 o’clock, and elongated hands with circular cut-outs. Hidden underneath this fanciful visual is an automatic movement ETA 2892 / SW300 that offers a 42-hour power reserve.

THE ROYAL POP BY AUDEMARS PIGUET AND SWATCH

The Royal Pop by Audemars Piguet and Swatch is everything we hoped for and then some. Inspired by the Pop Art movement, the collection infuses elements of the Royal Oak with the cheeky charisma of the Swatch POP watches. The Royal Pop, powered by Swatch’s signature SISTEM51 movement, reimagines the traditional pocket watch through eight Bioceramic models. The calfskin lanyard with contrasting stitching allows the watches to be worn in multiple ways. Each piece also comes with a removable stand, allowing it to be transformed into a desk watch.

THE TAMBOUR TAIKO ARTY AUTOMATA BY LOUIS VUITTON

Louis Vuitton continues to challenge the standards of watchmaking with the use of horological automata. The Tambour Taiko Arty Automata, inspired by the many artist collaborations that have transpired at the house, is a playground on which seven elements spring to life. One touch of the push-piece, located at the 8 o’clock position on the white-gold case, sets off a kinetic diorama. The four Monogram Flowers twirl in their settings, the eye with a dramatic fringe of lashes scans its surroundings, and the candy heart oscillates from side to side.

THE FREEDOM CHRONO ENJOY LIFE “SPRINKLES” BY NORQAIN

Banking on the runaway success of the “Ice Cream” edition, Norqain enriches its Enjoy Life series with the only follow-up that makes sense: the Freedom Chrono Enjoy Life “Sprinkles”. The independent atelier once again shows us the sweet side of life with two irresistible dial options under the stainless steel case, Strawberry or Blue Raspberry. Cranking up the fun, a rendering of an ice cream covered in sprinkles is set to pop out of the date window between 4 and 5 o’clock every seven days. It was one of the highlights at the recent Watches and Wonders.

THE RM 07-01 COLOURED CERAMICS BY RICHARD MILLE

To nobody’s surprise, the RM 07-01 Coloured Ceramics collection culminates in a dazzling finale. The three novelties bring forth a vibrant interplay of diamonds with other gemstones like sapphires and rubies. Available in blush pink, lavender pink, or powder blue, the trio are anchored by a dial brimming with striking elements. Those include coloured ceramics details and laser-cut rubber appliqués. The watches aren’t just for show either. Powered by Richard Mille’s skeletonised CRMA2 calibre, these watches promise a power reserve of 50 hours.