Hasta La Ideas

by Jeremy Brautman

Vannen Watches, based loosely around the Swedish word vännen (meaning “friends”) brings some of today’s best lowbrow art to wrists. Longtime watch fan and founder David Stowe wanted to fill the void in a medium that doesn’t always pair fashion with function, while incorporating his idea that working with friends helps people discover artists thus creating new friends.

Stowe also hopes that Vannen Watches will transform the insular nature of collectors. “If someone buys an art toy, book or print, it sits on their shelf collecting dust only to be seen by people who come to their houses. With our watches, you can show the entire world your taste in art and fashion.”

The premiere Vannen collection launching this month features four watches by artists Buff Monster, Damon Soule, Brian Morris and Chris Ryniak. Each design will be available in an edition of 500, with coordinating packaging (above) and a signature watchband loop.

CH recently had the chance to speak with the artists behind the collection to find out a little more about their individual Vannen Watch designs. Read the interview and see some of their original artwork after the jump.