INTRODUCING: BAPE x Swatch 2020, a Big Bold 47mm statement watch

Zach Blass

Streetwear fans rejoice, Swatch and BAPE (A Bathing Ape for those not in the know) are back with another big and bold collection. As far as #details go, this watch comes fully loaded. Taking up where last year’s collaboration left off, this new collection is a colourful collision of styles. BAPE brings the disruptive and unconventional flair, and Swatch meets it with their years of innovation and traditional Swiss know-how.

The result is the 47mm Big Bold Watch, which is what we refer to as a ‘statement piece’. From the case to the bezel and even the strap, the design of these three watches gives the wearer ample opportunity to stand out from the crowd. And it gives the wearer plenty of thoughtful touches to discover, from the ape head that crowns the hour hand, to the crooked tipped second hand. Swatch provides the perfect canvas with the biggest and boldest product line in their arsenal, best suited to incorporate the distinct and iconic BAPE look. 

For those who want to escalate the colour and character of their wristwear, all three watches — Tokyo White Multi Camo, Tokyo Black Multi Camo, and Tokyo Gray Multi Camo — have multi-coloured print on their matte silicone straps that represent all the different cultures and people connected by their uniqueness. While the watches have Tokyo in their name and on their loops, a nod to the birth city of BAPE, each watch features both brands’ favourite cities on their bezels. 

Although a 47mm dial may seem quite large on paper, the case’s compact lugs tame the large dial for a variety of wrists. They add very little height (lug to lug) to the watch, making this creation rather compact for its larger size. The Tokyo White Multi Camo is paired with a rose/copper tone dial, the Tokyo Black Multi Camo with a yellow gold/brass tone dial, and the Tokyo Gray Multi Camo with a grey dial to match. The watches feature a Swiss-made quartz movement packed into a case only 11.75mm thick, making this watch quite easy to pop under a shirt, sweater, or jacket cuff. The watches also all include a tasteful and discreet day-date complication, which will require little effort to set as the quartz movement will keep the watches running accurately.

The packaging comes in a hard-case box outfitted with the signature and iconic BAPE camouflage print design. Want all three? For the most die-hard fans, a surprise highly limited set with subtly modified designs awaits. 

Based on last year’s success, if you’re looking to get one on your wrist, it is best to order now before these watches are sold out!

Price and availability:

The BAPE x Swatch has an RRP of $225AUD, and is not limited in production numbers.