The Art Of Time: The Biggest Watch Events During Art Basel Miami Beach 2023

Each year, Art Basel Miami Beach brings some of the most talented artists, collectors, and tastemakers down to the Magic City to celebrate art in all its forms. And while it’s certainly about the art, it’s also become a week for watch brands to illuminate the powerful interconnection between the art industry and high watchmaking. From Hublot’s new limited-edition watch as a tribute to Miami to Cartier’s North American debut of its Time Unlimited exhibition, Miami was home to some of the biggest watch events this Art Basel season. 

HUBLOT

Hublot marked a memorable moment this Art Basel as they unveiled the Big Bang Unico Magic City, a timepiece exclusively designed for the vibrant and transformative city of Miami. The launch took place amidst the backdrop of Miami’s annual Art and Design Week, where the city’s dynamic blend of culture, nightlife, and coastal beauty serves as a continuous source of inspiration for Hublot. The exclusive watch, blending elements of Art Deco and the ’80s new-wave renaissance, exemplifies Hublot’s dedication to creating distinctive timepieces that resonate with the spirit of the locales that inspire them.

The exclusive unveiling event, attended by media, clients, and friends of the brand, transformed into a lively celebration at the trendy Queen Miami Beach, with notable guests gracing the occasion. Limited to just 35 pieces, the Big Bang Unico Magic City can be found exclusively at Hublot’s Miami boutiques, Miami Design District and Bal Harbour Shops, as well as on hublot.com’s US ecommerce platform.

CARTIER 

This Art Basel, Miami welcomed the North American debut of Cartier’s Time Unlimited exhibition, an immersive experience that pays tribute to Cartier’s exceptional craftsmanship and its enduring connection with the dynamic art scene of the city. From December 7th to 22nd, at the heart of Miami Design District on 45 NE 41st Street, the exhibition will transport guests through key themes such as Watchmaker of Shapes, Pioneering Spirit, Culture of Design, and Technique Serves Beauty, all showcasing Cartier’s watchmaking innovation. Attendees will embark on a journey through Cartier’s rich history, featuring iconic timepieces like Santos de Cartier, Baignoire, Panthère de Cartier, Ballon Bleu, and Tank, alongside rare and limited-edition pieces that trace the Maison’s watchmaking heritage. With captivating films, including Time Project in collaboration with Cartier Global ambassador Jake Gyllenhaal, Time Unlimited is a testament to Cartier’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, solidifying its stature as a prominent figure in the world of watchmaking. 

Walter Bolognino, President & CEO of Cartier North America, expressed, “Cartier has long balanced craftsmanship with innovation, embracing the Maison’s savoir-faire to create elegant and enduring timepieces. This installation captures Cartier’s endless quest for designing creations that link well-balanced beauty, rigorous technical expertise, and Maison’s rich heritage.”

IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN

IWC Schaffhausen hosted an intimate conversation with iconic supermodel and brand ambassador, Gisele Bündchen, amid the vibrant backdrop of Art Basel Miami. This intimate exchange delved into the significance of time in Bündchen’s life, highlighting her ability to balance a hectic schedule, cherish moments of “me time,” and above all, prioritize family. Centered around the conversation was the Ingenieur Automatic 40, a watch that seamlessly blends elegance and practicality. The event, held at Miami Beach’s contemporary art museum, The Bass, provided a platform for Gisele to share her insights on time management, watches, and style, alongside Malaika Crawford.

Notably, the conversation delved into the design legacy of watch designer Gérald Genta and celebrated the Ingenieur Automatic 40, a timepiece that combines modern aesthetics with top-notch ergonomics and technology. Gisele’s fondness for the aqua-dialed Ingenieur Automatic 40 (Ref. IW328903) was evident, as she praised its versatility and comfort for her on-the-go lifestyle. The event underscored the synergy between Bündchen and IWC Schaffhausen, founded on shared values and a commitment to sustainability, further solidifying her role as a brand ambassador who embodies the essence of time, style, and environmental consciousness.

ROGER DUBUIS

An Art Basel Miami Beach staple, Roger Dubuis returned to the Magic City alongside Lamborghini to commemorate its remarkable 60th anniversary with a grand gallery opening in the heart of Miami Beach. This gallery promises to be a captivating showcase of artistic expression, as it will prominently feature works created by talented artists who draw inspiration from Lamborghini’s rich legacy. As two iconic brands come together to celebrate this milestone, attendees can anticipate a visually stunning fusion of automotive excellence and artistic creativity, paying homage to the timeless spirit of Lamborghini that has captivated enthusiasts worldwide for six decades.