Ikepod Seaslug, 2018

Dealer description — Analog/Shift

In the watch world, just a few key industrial designers reign supreme. Gérald Genta, of course, is one who comes to mind immediately. Another is Marc Newson. The Australian wunderkind has become a legend in his own time, having designed everything from award-winning furniture to glassware to shotguns. In the horological sphere, however, he is most well known for Ikepod, his envelope-pushing watch brand that helped to usher in the trend of oversized timepieces in the 1990s. Known for their orb-like case shape with hooded lugs, unique handsets, often plentiful complications, and large size, Ikepod watches were ahead of their time. Having begun and ceased operations several times over the past few decades, Ikepod now operates without Newson, who went on to co-design the Apple Watch. Vintage, Newson-era Ikepods, however, are hot-ticket collector items these days, beloved for their quirky designs and attention to detail. This particular Ikepod Seaslug, dates to 2018 and represents a unique design-forward outgrowth of Newson's original vision. The case features a bulbous 39mm stainless steel case that wears much better than most Ikepods on small wrists. The watch preserves the same striking details we have come to know and love from Ikepod, with a few notable design quirks. This watch features a GMT function, a date window, and general time display. The watch still has this futuristic feel to it that is unlike anything else out there. Powered by self-winding ETA 2893, this piece is outfitted with an integrated stainless steel bracelet with a rounded and scalloped link profile. Quirky, idiosyncratic, and mesmerizing, it’s that rare breed of contemporary watch that invites a closer look ... from a living designer legend!