Swatch Group has teamed up with Swiss watchmaker Audemars Piguet to launch the Royal Pop pocket watch collection in the United States on May 16, 2026 [1, 2]. The Royal Pop transforms from a pocket watch into a pendant, desk clock, or bag charm, offering versatile wear options [1].
The collection includes eight colorful models featuring octagonal cases inspired by Audemars Piguet’s iconic Royal Oak watch design [1, 2]. Oliver Mueller, head of Switzerland’s LuxeConsult, said the collection "reinforces the power of the Royal Oak by proving that its design language has entered popular culture" [1].
Prices start at US$400 for the Lépine case style and US$420 for the Savonnette style [1, 2]. Each watch uses a manual-wind variant of Swatch’s Sistem51 movement with a 90-hour power reserve [2]. Calfskin leather lanyards in three lengths and optional desk clock holders are available as accessories [1, 2].
Fans in New York began lining up as early as May 12 ahead of the launch [1]. Due to expected demand, Swatch is limiting sales to one watch per person per store per day [2].
Though Swatch previously collaborated with in-house brands like Omega on the MoonSwatch and Blancpain on the Scuba Fifty Fathoms, this is its first partnership with an independent Swiss watchmaker not owned by Swatch Group [1, 2]. Some collectors have expressed concern that the collaboration could degrade Audemars Piguet’s luxury status [1].
