Not often does one get a surprise from among the biggest names in music. In the case of the 32-year-old birthday of 21 Savage, it wasn’t a regular one. On October 22, 2024, Travis Scott marked his close friend’s milestone in style as he gave him an unprecedented gift- an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar watch, part of the exclusive AP x Cactus Jack collaboration.
This timepiece is no ordinary watch—it’s a masterpiece that perfectly blends high-end luxury with Travis Scott’s signature artistic flair. The watch features the first-ever brown ceramic case ever crafted by Audemars Piguet, making it a trailblazer in design and craftsmanship. Adding to its uniqueness, it boasts signature Cactus Jack design elements, including the iconic smiley face logo, which has become synonymous with Scott’s brand. The sapphire dial itself is dotted with glowing blue and green luminescent details, lending a certain air of futurism to this watch that’s easily outstanding in the dark.
21 Savage’s reaction was, quite frankly, everything. The laid-back rapper looked for real-hyped about the indulgent gift, and his excitement was shared with fans across social media. Videos of that moment went viral, and the comments were instantly filled with admiration- not just for the watch but, more importantly, for the undeniable bond between the two musicians. Simultaneously, fans were quick to point out how such a lavish gesture really proved the depth of their friendship built from years of collaborative work and mutual support in the music business.
While Travis Scott and 21 Savage share a really close-knit relationship, the birthday surprise meant more than just a gift but a testament to their cool bonding between them. Both artists have reshaped the hip-hop landscape with their innovative music, and this close friendship between them has come to be a symbol of good comradeship within the industry. That rare and calculatedly done piece no doubt reflected for 21 Savage the respect Travis regards him with, not only as a friend but also as an artist.
Audemars Piguet has grown organically to become one of the world’s most well-known luxury watch brands. AP was founded way back in 1875 in the Vallée de Joux, Switzerland, and it’s among the few oldest watchmakers still independent and still owned by founding families. As such, it is steeped in tradition. Renowned for creating complicated timepieces that marry technical mastery to artistic design, these creations are coveted respectively by collectors, celebrities, and people who love everything about luxury.
But if there is one model that personifies the classy reputation of Audemars Piguet, then it will be the Royal Oak. When first introduced in 1972, the shockwaves of new standards really hit the watchmaking world: a luxury steel sports watch was an extremely unusual idea at that time. An octagonal bezel, exposed screws, and an integrated bracelet were features unique to this piece, making it the utmost status and exclusivity symbol.
Audemars Piguet has, over the years, included many different complications in the Royal Oak collection, from perpetual calendars and tourbillons to chronographs, all made with a simply sensational degree of detail.
What makes Audemars Piguet “posh” is not only its history or innovation but also its exclusiveness. AP watches have limited production, with careful hand-finishing for each piece to ensure that every watch is peculiarly authentic and high-quality. Ownership of an AP watch, therefore, signifies wealth, refinement, and an appreciation for fine craftsmanship.
Well-known rappers and celebrities boast of owning at least one Audemars Piguet piece, for the brand has become some status among hip-hop people. Some notable rappers who own AP watches include:
Jay-Z: This long-time AP fan and collector famously teamed up with Audemars Piguet in 2005 to launch a limited edition Royal Oak Offshore, celebrating his 10th anniversary in the music industry.
Drake: An avid AP wearer, some of his most notable pieces include the iconic Royal Oak and the sportier Royal Oak Offshore. The brand’s clout extends deep enough into hip-hop that Drake also mentions the brand in his lyrics.
Meek Mill: was one of the artists who enjoyed living an expensive life, often flossing with his luxury watch bags. He has several Audemars Piguet collections that he posts online via social media.
Future: Not an artist a stranger to finer things himself, he can be spotted time and again with Audemars Piguet watches on his hands, which only underlined the appeal they provided to the elites.
Travis Scott: Notably, Travis Scott is a huge fan of the brand, and his collaboration with Audemars Piguet on the Cactus Jack collection seemed to only further cement AP’s status as a giant in the worlds of luxury and hip-hop.
Owning an Audemars Piguet limited edition or a custom collaboration, for that matter, one as specific as an AP x Cactus Jack Royal Oak-says it all about one’s status within the music and entertainment spheres. For 21 Savage, seizing it as a gift on his 32nd birthday from Travis Scott underpins the bond between them and his standing within a circle where style, success, and luxury merge.
