Megapod MTC1 Skaters in the sky

Ikepod’s latest venture into the art world takes the form of the Ikepod X Tom Christopher Megapod ‘Skaters In The Sky’ watch, marking the brand’s third collaboration with prominent artists. Prior partnerships included collaborations with Jeff Koons in 2009 and KAWS in 2012. This third-generation art watch signifies a new chapter for Ikepod, post-Marc Newson, while continuing to honor the design principles set by Oliver Ike and Marc Newson in the 1990s.

The watch itself is housed in a Megapod steel case, measuring a substantial 46mm in diameter. What sets this watch apart in terms of design is the unique integration of a rubber strap directly into the circular case, eliminating the traditional lugs. This not only contributes to the watch’s overall aesthetic but also means that the 46mm diameter serves as the “lug to lug” measurement. In terms of the movement, unlike its predecessors which used ETA movements, this particular model employs the Miyota 9039, and its workings can be admired through an exhibition caseback.

The dial is a canvas for Tom Christopher’s distinctive artistic style, characterized by his chaotic and vivid impressions of New York City. On this watch, he presents a captivating and colorful rendition of the New York City skyline that encircles the dial. The skyscrapers appear to converge towards the center of the dial, where a group of skaters is skillfully integrated into the bustling scene. Christopher’s patchwork approach to depicting the cityscape involves a multitude of color blocks, forming an intricate tapestry of shapes and colors that may not be immediately recognizable from a distance. However, the name of the watch, ‘Skaters In The Sky,’ offers a clear and relatable context for the artwork, taking it from the abstract to a portrayal of a distinct subject matter, capturing the essence of urban life and movement in the heart of the city that never sleeps. This fusion of art and horology encapsulates Ikepod’s ongoing commitment to creativity and innovation in the world of watchmaking, making ‘Skaters In The Sky’ a compelling addition to their legacy of art-inspired timepieces.