To mark its centenary, Bang & Olufsen has unveiled the final two works in its five-part “Atelier” series: the Monarch and the Zenith. Limited to 10 pairs each and priced at $450,000 USD, the designs extend the brand’s exploration of sound objects as collectible design, positioning high-fidelity speakers within the realm of functional art.
Craft Tradition and Material Expression
The Monarch Edition draws directly from Danish woodworking traditions, emphasizing tactility and craftsmanship. Instead of a conventional textile covering, the speaker is encased in curved rosewood slats that follow its sculptural form. As a result, the object reads less as a technical device and more as a hand-built artifact.
Moreover, the use of wooden “knots” as structural connectors reinforces this artisanal narrative. These elements not only secure the construction but also introduce a visible joinery language, thereby aligning the piece with furniture-making techniques. Consequently, the Monarch Edition situates itself within a lineage of Nordic material design, where natural finishes and structural honesty define the aesthetic.
Light, Surface, and Perceptual Design
In contrast, the Zenith Edition shifts focus from material warmth to optical complexity. Covered in thousands of aluminum spheres—nearly 300 per panel—the surface creates a dynamic interplay with ambient light. Therefore, the speaker’s appearance evolves throughout the day, responding to changing environmental conditions.
Additionally, the incorporation of pearl-like tones and mother-of-pearl inlay introduces a maritime reference, while amplifying the reflective qualities of the design. This layered surface treatment positions the Zenith Edition within a more experimental design context, where perception and light become central compositional tools. As a result, the object functions as both an acoustic device and a kinetic visual experience.
Collectible Design and Technical Continuity
Despite their distinct exterior treatments, both editions retain the internal architecture of the Beolab 90. The system features 18 drivers, ensuring that acoustic performance remains consistent with the brand’s flagship standards. Thus, the project maintains a balance between technological continuity and formal experimentation.
To reinforce their status as collectible objects, each pair is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a small-scale aluminum sculpture housed in a custom case. Furthermore, the editions will be exhibited at the Bang & Olufsen San Francisco Culture Store before embarking on a limited global tour.
Ultimately, the Monarch and Zenith conclude the Atelier series by foregrounding the intersection of sound, craft, and design. Through these works, Bang & Olufsen extends its legacy beyond audio engineering, positioning its products within a broader cultural and collectible design landscape.