This article introduces the "Crashio" watch, a groundbreaking collaboration that fuses the artistic elegance of the Cartier Crash with the practical, digital functionality of Casio. Created by the streetwear brand Open Bar Funeral, this innovative timepiece aims to make a high-fashion aesthetic accessible to a broader audience at an affordable price point.
Experience the Fusion: Iconic Design Meets Digital Innovation
The Elusive Allure of High-End Timepieces
For many, owning a genuine Cartier Crash watch remains a distant aspiration. Its rarity and the exorbitant prices it commands at auction houses place it far beyond the reach of most enthusiasts. Despite these barriers, the distinctive, fluid design, reminiscent of Salvador Dali's surrealist art, has cultivated a devoted following. This enduring appeal has led to a surge in demand for watches that either draw direct inspiration from the Spanish artist's work or replicate the Crash's signature distorted silhouette.
Open Bar Funeral's Foray into Horology
Open Bar Funeral, a streetwear label founded by Mark Nguyen, is renowned for its relaxed-fit apparel, including popular pleated carpenter pants. Following a trend observed among numerous streetwear brands, the allure of crafting a wristwatch proved irresistible. This venture into watchmaking was particularly compelling given the unique concept they envisioned.
Introducing the "Crashio": A Design Revelation
Open Bar Funeral's debut timepiece, aptly named the "Crashio," masterfully blends the iconic look of the Cartier Crash with the familiar digital interface of Casio watches. This innovative watch features a 27x46.5mm resin casing paired with a complementary stainless steel Jubilee-style bracelet. The digital display offers both 12-hour and 24-hour formats, an automatic calendar, and a backlit screen, alongside daily and hourly alarm functions. A particularly ingenious design element is the digital readout itself, which is subtly warped to align with the watch's unconventional case shape. Boasting an accuracy of +/- 30 seconds per month and a seven-year battery life powered by a CR2016 battery, this stylish yet budget-friendly watch retails for a mere $128.
Making a Mark in the Competitive Watch Market
Gaining traction in the saturated watch industry, especially in the wake of recent high-profile and often costly releases such as those at Dubai Watch Week, is a significant challenge for any new brand. Open Bar Funeral's strategy offers a refreshing alternative. Instead of overcomplicating their entry or starting with an overly niche product, they leverage well-established influences: the prestige of Cartier, the widespread fascination with the Crash design, and the universal appeal of simple digital watches favored by a diverse demographic. This calculated approach positions the "Crashio" to be an instant bestseller, appealing to watch aficionados and casual wearers alike. Mark your calendars: the Open Bar Funeral 'Crashio' watch is set to launch on November 28th.
