HUBLOT and acclaimed Japanese artist Takashi Murakami have introduced an extraordinary creation that brings Murakami’s iconic smiling flower to life as a timepiece. The MP-15 Takashi Murakami Tourbillon Sapphire Rainbow is a wearable sculpture, crafted in sapphire and adorned with vibrant gemstones, featuring HUBLOT’s first-ever central tourbillon. This masterpiece, limited to just 20 pieces, represents a stunning fusion of art and horology.
Murakami’s unique “Superflat” art movement melds traditional Japanese art with modern aesthetics, blending fine art, pop culture, and commercial media. Among his most recognizable motifs is the smiling flower, a symbol of optimism and joy that HUBLOT has previously brought to watchmaking. However, the MP-15 elevates this iconic design to new heights, combining HUBLOT’s engineering prowess with Murakami’s artistic vision.
Artistry in Every Detail
The MP-15’s 42mm case, sculpted from a solid block of sapphire crystal, highlights Murakami’s vibrant aesthetic with 12 titanium petals inlaid with 444 gemstones. This meticulous arrangement features rubies, sapphires, amethysts, topazes, and tsavorites, each petal radiating a unique hue, perfectly capturing Murakami’s “rainbow” effect. HUBLOT’s expertise in selecting and setting each stone is on full display, ensuring a smooth colour transition across the petals.
Beyond its artistry, the MP-15 is a technical marvel. Powered by HUBLOT’s HUB9015 calibre, the watch’s central flying tourbillon is showcased under a domed sapphire crystal that bears Murakami’s signature eyes and smile. The manual-winding movement provides a generous 120-hour power reserve, nearly a full week of precision timekeeping, and is wound with a specially designed stylus placed on the crown for effortless charging.
A Functional Masterpiece
In keeping with its refined design, the MP-15’s hours and minutes are displayed around the tourbillon, allowing for an unobstructed view of its complex movement. The watch’s hands, set beneath the tourbillon cage, gracefully sweep around its periphery, while hour markers align with each gemstone-studded petal for a seamless reading experience. Skeletonized components give the appearance of a floating, almost weightless structure—a testament to HUBLOT’s avant-garde watchmaking.
This limited edition of 20 exemplifies the seamless union of high art and horological innovation, drawing admirers of Murakami’s work and serious watch collectors alike. Available exclusively through HUBLOT boutiques and select retailers, the MP-15 is destined to be a highly sought-after piece for its unique blend of colour, craftsmanship, and revolutionary watchmaking.
Through this bold collaboration, HUBLOT and Murakami continue to break barriers, crafting a timepiece that transcends conventional watch design—a true celebration of art and ingenuity.
