ARTISANS DE GENÈVE Andrea Pirlo Project Skeleton ROLEX SUBMARINER

When is Rolex Submariner more than a Submariner? When it’s a bespoke, skeletonized masterpiece from Artisans de Genève.



When is a spectator sport not a sport? When it involves watching professional footballers achieve their ambitions.



And not on the field where the beautiful game is played but in the field of high-end watch modification.



This is what happened when the former Italian pro-footballer, Andrea Pirlo teamed up with the exclusive Swiss watch modifiers, Artisans de Genève.



The watch is called the Artisans de Genève Andrea Pirlo Project Skeleton Rolex Submariner, it’s a one off project that takes the not so humble Submariner to the next level and beyond.



Andreas’ Submariner was modified in four main areas: firstly the bezel was upgraded with lightweight forged carbon.



Next the dial was transformed into an openwork dial revealing each detail of the watch’s skeleton movement, while Rose Gold indexes were added to further enhance the face.



The case was given multiple finishes: polished chamfers, a satin-brushed strip and sand-blasted lugs.



The Rolex 3130 was then skeletonized. It took more than 2 years of research and development to execute the movement’s mods.



Each component was entirely dismounted, cut and beveled by hand. As a final personal touch, the rotor was engraved with the inscription “Il Maestro 1995-2017”.



Thoughts? Who are we to shit on anyone’s dreams; least of all those of former Italian pro footballers . . . . but



at first glance, it does kinda’ look like one of those bastardized, mashup fake watches that you can buy in Xinzhen. Is this what happens when you f#ck with a classic?

Perhaps, but I’m sure it’s gobsmackingly gorgeous in person. Just not my cuppa'.