Some 1:1 UK replica watches break the internet more than others – like the late Virgil Abloh’s one-of-a-kind blacked-out Nautilus that sent watch lovers into a frenzy a few years ago. A sleek and futuristic Nautilus 5726 that was customised for him by MAD Paris, it came with a steel outer case and inner mechanics that were coated with a fine black diamond carbon via a process called ionic pulverisation, and even featured his trademark design signature quotation marks on the Patek Philippe logo on the dial.
Recently, a very similar-looking jet-black Nautilus spotted on Thierry Henry’s wrist has the internet confused. The Arsenal and France legend (and watch connoisseur) has been spotted more than once at the Paris Olympics wearing a customised blackened perfect Patek Philippe fake watches that looks almost identical to Abloh’s piece.
All over social media, people were commenting on the high quality replica watches: “Anyone know which watch Thierry Henry is wearing?” Many wrongly assumed MAD Paris was responsible but MAD, and the creative agency behind it, NAMES, have confirmed it wasn’t their handiwork – adding a certain amount of mystery around Henry’s watch.
“Thierry Henry’s customised best copy watches highlights the growing demand for personalised luxury,” Elena Filipponi, director and co-founder of Names, tells GQ. “While not a MAD Paris creation, it exemplifies the broader movement that we have pioneered within the industry – the convergence of craftmanship and individuality. Pioneered by MAD, and empowered by NAMES, we’ve set a standard in the luxury watch market, inspiring others to explore the artistry and personal expression found in bespoke watch customisation.”
MAD has clearly been inspiring others to do the same. Renowned within the industry for transforming iconic timepieces into unique works of art, MAD shows how customisation can be done right by blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design, resulting in personalised luxury 2024 replica watches where each piece captures the unique individuality of the client. Other notable MAD designs include a steel Audemars Piguet Royal Oak revealed in 2019 by Matthew Williams, the designer behind 1017 Alyx 9SM and (formerly) Givenchy, and the MAD Paris x Browns Audemars Piguet capsule collection of four grail super clone watches online on steroids.
“The rise in watch customisation reflects a cultural shift towards personalisation and exclusivity,” added Filipponi. “In a world of mass production, clients appreciate mindful and purposeful artistry. Iconic models serve as the perfect canvases to express unique identities, whilst maintaining the quality and status acquired through true heritage. This approach facilitates the growing demand for bespoke luxury items that tell a personal story.”
While some purists may not like it, China online replica watches customisations are now commonplace among collectors, especially celebrities like Henry, as well as Drake (check out his emerald-encrusted Patek Philippe Nautilus customised by Abloh) and David Beckham with his custom Tudor.
They are not for everyone, though. Collector @vancouverwatchguy generally prefers purity when it comes to mainstream or serially produced copy watches for men (“I feel something is lost in the customisation”) but he feels differently in the case of independent watchmakers: “The collector is often encouraged to have some input regarding the dial, colours and finishing, and I love working with watchmakers to personalise the watch for me. He cites his Kari Voutilainen Vingt-8, which he and Swiss-based Finnish watchmaker worked together on. “I am working with an independent watchmaker at present to help with the design of his first watch and that kind of customisation is extremely satisfying.” We’re all about adding a bit of personal flair and satisfaction to our most cherished wrist accessories.
Henry wasn’t at the Olympics just for fun: he managed the French men’s national football team to the Olympic final. His blacked-out bespoke Swiss movements fake Patek Philippe Nautilus watches has had the watch world talking, but he’ll be pleased his squad managed to add a little silver to proceedings on home soil.