Increasingly, gaming and watches are coming together, and 28 July will see the launch of the latest timepiece dedicated to the field when the AVI-8 AV-4104 Flyboy Capcom 1942 Automatic Limited Edition makes its debut.
The limited-edition timepiece – a collaboration with Capcom, a market leader in interactive entertainment development, publishing, and distribution – draws inspiration from 1942, the classic shoot ’em up game with vertical scrolling action that was first seen in 1984 and has been hailed as one of the best in the history of the genre.
The distinctive pixelated artwork and background of the game have been revisited by AVI-8, a watch brand inspired by military aviation, and the resulting timepiece evokes 8-bit arcade culture.
Available in two different colourways, only 300 of each version will be made and each watch will bear a serial number and be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
The silhouette is that of a classic field or pilot watch but the form has been twisted and combined with the aesthetics of the 1942 universe from the wartime aviation game.
More than a gimmick, the AV-4104 Flyboy Capcom 1942 Automatic is built to last. The watch is powered by a Japanese Seiko TMI NH35 self-winding movement housed within a sturdy 41mm case made from durable marine-grade stainless steel with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal on top for immediate clarity and vision.
It is presented on a steel bracelet and also comes with an extra canvas strap with details drawn directly from the game. and it is made of. For the best visibility in low light, the dial and hands have significant amounts of Swiss super bright material.
The 3D treatment of the index, dial, and hands brings the video game’s screen art to life. A nostalgic delight to own, this watch is designed to be a nod to a beloved video game that seamlessly integrates the AVI-8 philosophy of celebrating the pilots and equipment of military aviation.
AVI-8 has also collaborated with Nache Ramos, a Spanish Lowbrow artist, who has been working as a freelance illustrator for more than 15 years. Each watch comes with a set of custom commissioned limited-edition prints by the famed illustrator and designer fusing horology and nostalgia-infused gaming.
The brand believes that the AV-4104 Flyboy Capcom 1942 Automatic highlights a significant chapter in the history of video games and Second World War aviation, the brand hopes that this watch will introduce AVI-8 to a brand-new group of collectors and enthusiasts.
Prices start at $365.
