- Franck Muller released 1,111 Solana wallet-linked watches, each priced at around $24,300.
- The launch coincides with increased physical attacks on crypto holders, raising safety concerns.
- Each watch includes a unique QR code tied to a Solana address, blending digital identity with luxury design.
The Swiss watchmaker Franck Muller has released a small batch of special watches tied to Solana crypto, bringing together luxury watches and digital currencies. All 1,111 pieces in the collection are QR code-enabled, connecting them to the wallets of those who purchase them. The company says that the release links the physical and digital sides of retail through what it calls “phygital.”
Exclusive Watch Collection Tied to Solana Wallets
Pricing for the new watches starts at 20,000 Swiss francs which converts to about $24,300. Every token is marked with a QR code that is specific to the buyer’s Solana address, making it one of the first collections like it. With this undertaking, Franck Muller keeps exploring how blockchain can be applied to luxury items.
The limited run of 1,111 pieces adds an exclusive appeal. While each timepiece includes standard luxury features, the addition of Solana wallet integration sets the collection apart. The watches are designed to serve as both a display of wealth and a symbol of digital identity.
Timing of the Launch Raises Security Concerns
The launch coincides with a rising number of physical attacks targeting individuals associated with cryptocurrencies. Several incidents this year involved attempted kidnappings and assaults on known crypto holders. These events have prompted discussions about the risks of publicly displaying digital wealth.
In one high-profile case, the daughter and grandson of Paymium CEO Pierre Noizat were targeted in a daytime attempted kidnapping . That incident, captured on video, brought further attention to the issue. The attempted abduction failed, but it followed a separate case where a crypto millionaire’s father was abducted and had a finger severed before being rescued.
Another reported case involved David Balland, the co-founder of hardware wallet manufacturer Ledger. He and his wife were taken from their home, and although they were eventually rescued, a ransom was reportedly paid before being recovered by law enforcement.
Blending Identity and Ownership in a Blockchain Era
According to Franck Muller, the watch collection aims to serve as a marker of ownership and identity in the digital age. With a growing number of crypto-related products entering the luxury market, the brand positions its collection as a fusion of craftsmanship and technology.
However, the link between public blockchain addresses and physical items raises questions about privacy and personal safety. While the timepieces offer a unique blend of digital utility and luxury design, concerns over security remain a focal point for potential buyers.
This development signals continued convergence between traditional luxury markets and blockchain technology, even as safety challenges persist.
