Tadao Ando’s Green Apple Watch Blends Playful Design with Youthful Spirit

Freshness and a dash of whimsy rarely meet as gracefully as they do in the Green Apple watch, a creation born from the unlikely pairing of Swiss watchmaker Cauny and the masterful Japanese architect, Tadao Ando. It’s the kind of collaboration that immediately grabs your attention, not just because of the names involved, but for how it manages to bottle youthful energy within a neatly crafted timepiece.

The story behind this watch starts with an apple—specifically, the green apple, which Ando regards as a symbol of youth. That idea, borrowed from Samuel Ullman’s poem, infuses every inch of this playful design. “Youth is not a time of life; it is a state of mind,” Ullman writes, setting the tone for a watch that dares to look and feel a little unripe, a little tart, but full of promise and verve.

Designer: Tadao Ando x Cauny

Glancing at the Green Apple watch, you’re greeted by a burst of green that feels just as invigorating as biting into a crisp apple on a summer morning. The case, the dial, and even the strap come together in a striking shade of green that’s impossible to ignore. Unlike the usual parade of monochrome minimalism, this watch is confident in its vibrancy, inviting a second look and maybe even a smile.

Where the design really starts to charm is in the details. The hour hand, shaped like a delicate leaf, floats across the dial as if caught in a gentle breeze. It’s a subtle nod to the inspiration behind the watch but one that makes checking the time a small delight. There’s a sense of mischief in how Ando hides these poetic references in plain sight, refusing to settle for the straightforward or the expected.

For those who prefer their accessories a bit more understated, there’s also a brushed steel version that swaps the apple’s tart green for a cool, silvery sheen. This model quietly references Ando’s architectural roots, especially his love for concrete and clean lines. The steel finish offers a different kind of energy, one that’s calm, enduring, and perhaps a bit more reserved, while still carrying the spark of youth at its core.

Both versions of the watch share a rounded, pebble-like case that sits comfortably on the wrist, as if designed for both the young and the young at heart. The Italian leather strap wraps things up with a touch of sophistication, making the watch feel special without being precious. The anti-reflective sapphire glass adds a dash of practicality, ensuring the vibrant dial is always easy to admire.

It’s hard not to appreciate how the Green Apple watch brings together color, form, and narrative in such a thoughtful way. Each element, from the playful leaf-shaped hand to the poetic echoes of Ullman’s words, feels carefully considered. Whether you fall for the juicy green or the cool steel, there’s a sense of joy and possibility that lingers long after you slip it on your wrist.

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