Felipe Pantone, who began his journey as a pre-teen graffiti artist spray-painting walls, has evolved into a global sensation known for his striking, dynamic creations. His distinctive style, defined by vivid color gradients, geometric shapes, and optical illusions that seem to pulsate and shift depending on the viewer’s perspective, has now transitioned onto a new medium: the ZENITH DEFY Skyline Tourbillon.
Limited to just 100 pieces, the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone preserves nearly all the elements you admired in the original version, but with some unique twists. It boasts a 41mm octagonal stainless steel case and features a tourbillon mechanism with a lightning bolt bridge—an enduring motif in Pantone’s artwork—rendered in a dazzling gradient of metallic rainbow hues. The watch dial, made from sapphire, exhibits a micro-engraved pattern that generates a moiré visual effect, enhancing its hallucinogenic quality. After all, time itself is a mind-boggling concept, so this piece serves as an appropriate homage.
In this interview, we explore the thoughts of one of contemporary art’s boldest innovators, Felipe Pantone, and uncover how he turns a timepiece into a kinetic artwork.
What were the biggest challenges and rewards of this collaborative process?
Felipe Pantone (FP): One of the primary challenges was achieving the ideal balance between respecting the technical expertise of Zenith and incorporating my artistic vision. Watchmaking is a tradition-rich field, and pushing the limits within that context demanded careful thought. However, the reward was tremendous—watching a concept that started in my imagination transform into a finely crafted, functional item. It’s not merely art you can observe; it’s art you can wear and personally experience.
What do you hope the watch will evoke in people who wear it?
FP: I hope it acts as a reminder of the dynamic, constantly shifting world we inhabit. The watch transcends being a mere timekeeping device; it’s emblematic of energy, transformation, and the fusion of past and future. I want wearers to experience a feeling of movement, not only within the watch’s mechanics but also in their own lives as they navigate through time.
The DEFY Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone
How did you balance personal expression with the commercial expectations of the watch industry?
FP: Balancing personal expression with commercial demands is always a delicate act. Yet, I regard it as a challenge that can foster innovation. For this endeavor, I concentrated on how my aesthetic could enhance the craftsmanship of Zenith rather than overshadow it. The objective was to remain true to my style while honoring the heritage and accuracy Zenith embodies. It’s about creating a dialogue between art and industry, where both can flourish.
Can you describe a eureka moment you had during the design process?
FP: The eureka moment for me emerged when I discovered how to merge the lightning bolt motif into the tourbillon bridge. It’s a recurring symbol in my creations that represents energy and speed, fitting perfectly into the watch’s design vocabulary. This was more than a visual upgrade—it was a conceptual link between my art and the intricate science of horology. That moment felt like the seamless convergence of two realms.
Are there any other mediums you’d like to explore in the future?
FP: Definitely, I am continuously seeking to expand the horizons of my artistry. I’m already considering architecture and interior design with Casa Axis, but I’m also intrigued by virtual and augmented reality. These mediums open avenues for entirely new interactions with art—ones that can be immersive and multi-sensory. This represents the next frontier for merging the digital with the physical in a way that challenges conventional perceptions.
The caseback of DEFY Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone
How do you overcome creative blocks?
FP: I’ve found that stepping back and immersing myself in different creative outlets often helps. Engaging with music, traveling, or simply spending time in nature tends to unlock something within my mind. Sometimes, the key isn’t to force through the block but to adjust your perspective until the path forward clears up.
What book, film, or piece of music has had a profound impact on you recently?
FP: Roxy Music’s “In Every Dream Home a Heartache” has really struck a chord with me lately. The song begins with a commentary on materialism and the empty chase of perfection, but then shifts unexpectedly into something almost eerie. That transition from something superficially normal to something deeply unsettling fascinates me. It serves as a reminder that what lies on the surface is often just a façade, and that the deeper layers reveal the true narrative. Capturing such unexpected transformations is something I aim for in my own endeavors.
The DEFY Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone is limited to 100 pieces, available starting September 12 at 14:00 CEST from ZENITH’s online and physical boutiques, along with select retailers worldwide.
This article initially appeared in Esquire Singapore.
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