RJ-Romain Jerome X Donkey Kong

What would a Games collection be without Donkey Kong? In collaboration with Nintendo, RJ Romain Jerome pays homage to the ultra-classic arcade game Donkey Kong by releasing an exclusive limited edition of 81 timepieces to complete its Generational Icons.

By dedicating its latest collection to the renowned character, not only does RJ-Romain Jerome go back to the origins of the platform game genre, but also to the origins of Super Mario: before starring in his own game, Mario made his first appearance as “Jumpman” in Donkey Kong, braving obstacles to rescue his girlfriend. Released by Nintendo in July 1981, this arcade game was the first to allow players to jump over obstacles and across gaps, introducing a new genre defined by skill and timing.

AESTHETICAL HIGHLIGHTS

The essence of the game is captured in RJ-Romain Jerome’s signature Moon invader case. The dial showcases one of the game’s typical levels taking place in a construction site, with Mario dashing to grab a hammer while avoiding barrels thrown at him by an angry Donkey Kong.

The structure and ladders were intentionally not coloured, unlike the original game, in order to highlight the other elements of the game such as Donkey Kong, placed at 12 o’clock to dominate the scene.

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS

To stay true to the 1981 aesthetics, the complex dial recreates the pixelated effect on both the elements and the environment. RJ relied on different techniques and finishes to obtain an overall deep 3D effect. On the background, the pixels are engraved into the dial with different depth to create two different levels. The satin-brushed finish on the structure and ladder comes in contrast with the DLC-coated dial. On top, appliques of Donkey Kong, Mario and the other elements from the game have been hand-painted in cold enamel in the game’s original colours, and then applied by hand.

The ensemble is contained in a sophisticated 46mm titanium case, with the now famous articulated lugs in form of ball-and-socket joints, which houses a Swiss Made mechanical self-winding movement with a power reserve of 42 hours.

The pioneer game Donkey Kong helped cement Nintendo’s position as an important name in the video game industry, and will now cement RJ-Romain Jerome as the avant-garde brand which combines retro gaming with Haute Horlogerie.