Conceptual watchmaker IKEPOD has joined forces with Sanrio to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Hello Kitty with a special-edition Seapod Jacques timepiece.
IKEPOD is a Swiss watch company founded in 1994 by Oliver Ike and Marc Newson and famous for its cult disc-shaped design watches, which were among the first to start the trend of large diameter watches in the 2000s. Ikepod watches are known for their minimalistic dials, entry-level luxury, and high-end luxury pricing. The company also produces limited-edition watches that are almost like art.
As Hypebeast reports, the celebratory design features a sea-blue illustration of Hello Kitty riding a dolphin in the center of the dial. At the 50th position on the bezel, the number “50” appears in the same tone, nodding to the famed character’s half-century milestone. “Seapod” branding also adopts an identical hue, and the hands are outlined by a similar oceanic color.
The case, made from stainless steel, measures 46mm in diameter and 17mm thick. Operating with Japanese automatic movement (MIYOTA), the device offers water resistance up to 200m deep. Rounding out the specs, the watch boasts a stainless steel pin buckle and a sky-blue rubber strap.
The honorary collector’s item arrives in a special Hello Kitty 50th anniversary box, which is autographed by designer Yuko Yamaguchi. Notably, the first 50 customers will also receive a white rubber strap that can be switched out for the watch’s original blue version.
Reservations for IKEPOD’s special-edition Hello Kitty Seapod Jacques timepiece can be made on Long Slow Distance’s webstore. The watch will officially launch on November 1, 2024, for ¥390,000 JPY (approximately $2,495 USD).
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