Hmm, I like this conceptually. But it’s very, very expensive… For not a lot of oomph or artistry in the execution.
Overall, I think the collection is a bit too cute — in a way that doesn’t seem reflective of $30,000. To me, this collection reminds me more of Pandora type stuff. Very literal. I guess maybe pop art, if I’m being generous. There were many ways they could’ve made the Pokémon theme more artistically integrated with fine jewelry.
From a design standpoint, I also don’t feel like much thought went into these pieces. Maybe if they had a unique chain incorporating pokeballs or pikachu zigzag tails as links. But it’s literally just pikachu, jigglypuff, charmander, squirtle, cubone, and mew suspended on a plain, round link chain. (Also, no bulbasaur?)
Six Pokémon makes sense to form a team. But why were those six Pokémon chosen as the designated charms? Were they Arsham’s favorites growing up? It seems a bit random.
I also don’t love that all the chosen Pokémon are bipedal. Bulbasaur and eevee would make more sense as cute representatives from the first generation, instead of cubone and jigglypuff, and they would add some variety being on four legs. Or, since Pikachu gets his two separate gold pieces, replace him with jigglypuff in the silver version, since jigglypuff has some justifiable appeal if you really want to add her to the mix. But cubone really feels odd. Not really a star in either the anime or game series.
Overall, it seems like Pokémon could’ve just made these jewelry designs without having to involve Daniel Arsham at all. Feels redundant that he was brought on to “approve” the final looks. It doesn’t seem like he added much to the source material. And I feel like Pokémon already has plenty of experience merchandising their characters. If the Pokémon employees had designed the pieces themselves, I think the six designated Pokémon would have at least made more sense in terms of consumer preferences.
Imagine separate, unique pendants based on the 18 Pokémon types. Or a customizable piece with unknown characters that you can use to spell a name. Or an eeveelution charm bracelet. Or a necklace featuring different gems that represent the ten evolution stones. Or a plusle and minun earring set. Or a bird on a rock brooch featuring chatot as the cockatoo. Or a jeweled milotic/gyrados brooch in the style of the Schlumberger fish clip.
There’s just a lot that could’ve been done, instead of using regular gen-1 Pokémon as plain charms. They could’ve at least integrated the Pokémon with the chain in a more cohesive or interactive way. Maybe have pikachu holding onto the chain with his hand, so the bale is combined with the overall design, instead of just soldered the top of his head. Or have bulbasaur using a vine to grip onto the chain, if he were included.
I mean, the designs appeal to my inner child. But it really does come across as children’s jewelry — just with adult price tags. I think this was a missed opportunity to make some magnificent pieces inspired by the flora and fauna of the Pokémon world, and elevate their beauty to a more luxurious form. Transcending Pokémon from something perceived as childish into something mature or sophisticated — even to outsiders who wouldn’t recognize the franchise.
Separately, I’m also curious about Daniel Arsham being another designer for Tiffany. First knot, then lock, now Pokémon. Is he going to get a permanent collection eventually? A sculptor to replace Frank Gehry? More literal, pop-art, “hype” jewelry? It could be interesting. It feels kinda like a soft launch.
www.tiffany.com
And so I purchased the small gold pikachu order. I kept asking what's the dimension, how many tiny diamond chips, how many are made etc etc. My store didn't know and couldn't find out. I will find out when I finally receive it. Was told today the launch date was Nov 29th but changed to Nov 21 so maybe these orders will be shipped soon. Hope this helps someone understand what's happening even though it's somewhat a mystery at least to me. 
How much is the gold Pikachu?
