A custom-designed watch created in collaboration with Ukrainian boxing champion Oleksandr Usykfetched an impressive £100,000 at a high-profile auction in Riyadh. The sale marked a significant moment for Tismo Geneve, the Swiss watchmaker behind the exclusive Crown 22 timepiece, and underscored the rising value of bespoke luxury watches.
The auction, hosted as part of Riyadh Season and in collaboration with RT Fight the world’s first boxing App brought together a diverse crowd of collectors and aficionados. The Crown 22, which pays tribute to Usyk’s undefeated boxing career, quickly became the centerpiece of the event. Its sale not only highlighted the appeal of luxury watches but also underscored the growing synergy between the sports and luxury industries.
Tribute to a Champion
The Crown 22 is a testament to both precision engineering and storytelling. The watch features 22 sapphire markers to symbolize Usyk’s undefeated record in professional boxing, with design elements that reflect his heritage and achievements. A Ukrainian-inspired belt adorns the dial, complemented by boxing ropes etched around the case, while the rotor takes inspiration from Usyk’s undisputed championship belt.
Additional details, such as a strap crafted from gloves Usyk used in training and a custom black box signed by the athlete, add to the watch’s allure. Only 22 pieces were made, amplifying its exclusivity. The auction also benefited from its timing, taking place shortly before Usyk’s highly anticipated fight with Tyson Fury. This added a sense of immediacy and heightened interest among bidders.
The Riyadh Auction: Setting the Stage for Luxury
Riyadh’s emergence as a hub for high-end auctions has elevated its global profile in the luxury market. The event, part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative, showcased an array of bespoke
items from renowned brands. Yet, the Crown 22 stood out, with its intense bidding war drawing significant attention.
Starting at £10,000, the watch’s price climbed steadily as bidders recognized its craftsmanship and symbolic value. After several rounds, the gavel fell at an impressive £100,000 — a record for Tismo Geneve and a clear indicator of the demand for unique, limited-edition pieces.
A Rising Name in Horology
Tismo Geneve, helmed by Ralph Collins, has carved out a niche in the competitive world of luxury watchmaking. Despite being a relatively new player, the brand has already collaborated with cultural icons such as Al Pacino, Michael J. Fox, and now Oleksandr Usyk. Its focus on creating watches that combine technical mastery with rich narratives has resonated with collectors worldwide. Collins remarked on the auction’s success, saying, “The Crown 22 represents more than just a watch. It’s a celebration of craftsmanship and a tribute to one of boxing’s greats. We’re thrilled by the reception it received.”
Middle East: A Key Market for Luxury
Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning luxury market has become a focal point for brands like Tismo Geneve. Events such as Riyadh Season not only provide a platform to showcase exclusive items but also align with broader cultural initiatives aimed at positioning the Kingdom as a global destination for art, culture, and luxury.
The Middle East’s appreciation for bespoke craftsmanship and exclusivity makes it a natural market for limited-edition watches like the Crown 22. “We’re honored to see our work celebrated in a region that values artistry and heritage,” Collins added.
Looking Ahead
With the success of the Crown 22, Tismo Geneve is poised for further growth. The brand has hinted at future collaborations and collections, each aimed at pushing the boundaries of design and innovation. As the global luxury watch market evolves, Tismo Geneve’s ability to blend storytelling with engineering positions it as a brand to watch.
The Riyadh auction’s outcome also reflects a broader trend in luxury: the increasing demand for items that tell a story and offer a personal connection. For collectors, the Crown 22 is not merely a timepiece; it’s a symbol of victory, heritage, and craftsmanship.
As the hammer came down on the sale, the Crown 22 cemented its place as a defining piece in modern horology. Its legacy is a reminder that the art of watchmaking is as much about emotion and narrative as it is about precision.
Media ContactCompany Name: TismoContact Person: Andrew ThomasEmail: Send EmailCity: RiyadhCountry: Saudi ArabiaWebsite: http://www.tismo.ch/
