Happy 59th! Basquiat's Legacy Lives On With This DAEM Watch Collab

Today (December 22) marks what would’ve been the 59th birthday of art legend Jean-Michel Basquiat, had it not been for his unfortunate passing at the age of 27 on August 12, 1988. While his iconic works of art won’t soon be forgotten, it’s always great to see how Basquiat pieces are still influencing the worlds of fashion, art and music in the over three decades it’s been since his passing. Just take a look at this dope watch collaboration from luxury timepiece brand DAEM to see what we mean.

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Today we celebrate the birthday and genius of the late Jean-Michel Basquiat. With shared roots in Brooklyn (Basquiat’s birthplace) we celebrate his creativity and ability to create luxury from the world around him. The late artist would have turned 59 today, and in his 27 years he changed the art world. #jeanmichelbasquiat #basquiat – – #DAEM #watchgame #watchstyle #watchtime #timepieces #watches #watchful #dailywatch #williamsburg #daemwatches #artlove #warhol #thebroad

A post shared by DAEM (@daemwatches) on Dec 22, 2019 at 9:10am PST

Arriving in a handful of styles, the DAEM x Basquiat watch collaboration came to life thanks to official support from his estate. The Brooklyn-based label utilized three of Basquait’s classic pieces to construct a pretty cool collection, each option incorporating special designs and hues throughout from the dial to the band.

The “Now’s The Time” option is easily the standout, honoring the original 1985 painting of the same name while also showcasing a color theme on the band that many have frequently associated with Gucci. However, this time around it’s inspired by a shirt he was wearing in an image taken by renowned photographer William Coupon in 1986 (seen above). Made in Switzerland, complete with Swiss Ronda 515 movement, this watch is finely executed with a black enamel-coated dial for an extra opulent flex.

Those that like something a little more subtle will appreciate the “Skull” timepiece. Although it’s the most expensive of the three due to the customized Italian leather strap (seen above), this watch definitely gives you all of your money’s worth. The Swiss ETA caliber 2824-2 25-jewel automatic movement and sapphire crystal glass add the ultimate final touch to match the clever use of Basquait’s masterpiece “Undiscovered Genius” from 1983.

Rounding out the options is this clean “Warrior” watch. Inspired by the colorful 1982 painting of the same name, this one is sophistication and style all wrapped into one — sounds very similar to the man behind the inspo if you ask us! The metallic gold-plated casing is a nice touch, but the full grain Italian leather band is the quality that’ll really stop time.