“I’m drawn to exploring concepts that consistently surface in my work—themes that resonate deeply with me, such as the rapid pace of our times, transformation, dynamism, and the evolution of the digital age,” says Felipe Pantone. Born in Argentina and raised in Spain, Pantone is an artist with a distinct style that draws inspiration from the digital—he uses bold colours and defined geometric shapes to invoke compositions that look like they belong in cyberspace. He began working with the Swiss watchmaker Zenith in 2020, and past watch collaborations include a limited-edition Defy 21, and a unique Defy 21 Double Tourbillon Sapphire for the Only Watch auction. “For me, stepping into the world of watchmaking isn’t just about imposing these ideas onto a new canvas, but rather about embracing a holistic learning experience,” Pantone says. “I approach it with an open mind, eager to absorb the savoir-faire of the watchmaking craft. Although my style inevitably shines through, my primary goal is to engage in a true exchange of knowledge and creativity with the artisans involved.”
The newest piece he has created with Zenith is the Defy Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone (RM283,000; limited to 100 pieces). Presented in a steel case fashioned in the collection’s signature octagonal shape with dodecagonal bezel, the 41mm timepiece is itself a geometric and angular art exhibit—especially with its various, sharply defined facets and surfaces alternating between polished and satin finishing. Pantone’s use of colour is expressed via the iridescent dial, which is a sapphire disc backed with a mirror finish and micro-engraved with a concentric circle pattern—the effect is reminiscent of a CD. The hands and hour markers are kinked in the middle, meant to resemble a graphical glitch, and the tourbillon bridge is finished in metallic rainbow tones. It is powered by the El Primero 3630 movement, a 5Hz in-house automatic calibre with a 60-hour power reserve.
“The Defy Skyline Tourbillon incorporates several signature elements of my work: lightning bolts that symbolise energy and speed, vibrant colour gradients reminiscent of digital imagery, moirés, and holographic effects that nod to technological advancements,” Pantone explains. “Visual art typically unfolds in space, whereas watches are a conversation about time. This intersection is fascinating to me. I’m particularly captivated by the concepts of movement, change and transformation—ideas that naturally evolve over time and that I subtly aim to evoke in this timepiece.”
Although his work is contemporary digitally inspired, it also references technologies of the analogue past—things that are anachronistic in a similar way to watchmaking today. “Once design transcends its utilitarian function and exists purely for the sake of beauty and emotional resonance, it inches closer to art,” Pantone says. “Take a chair, for instance—it’s a good chair as long as it’s comfortable and provides rest. But there are chairs that don’t serve this function, yet we still value them for their aesthetic impact. In this sense, they become more art than design. Mechanical watchmaking operates in a similar space, where the craftsmanship and artistry involved elevate it beyond mere functionality.
“I have a big appreciation for mechanics, both old and new, he adds. “What I find particularly intriguing is the opportunity to innovate within a realm where objects, despite having lost much of their practical utility, continue to be admired for their technical sophistication and aesthetic beauty. It’s a delicate balance between honouring tradition and pushing the boundaries of design.”
The DEFY Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone is a limited-edition of 100 pieces that will be available from ZENITH online and physical boutiques, as well as with select retailers, worldwide from September 12 at 14:00 CEST.
