Ralph Lauren channels love of classic cars into watch collection
American designer's timepiece features wood and detailing modelled on the interior of his 1938 Bugatti Atlantic
Fashion designer Ralph Lauren’s love affair with classic cars is well documented. He has one of the most impressive collections in the world, including classics such as a 1938 Bugatti 57SC Atlantic Coupe. It’s this vehicle that was the inspiration for his 2015 Ralph Lauren Automotive Collection, which includes a Skeleton Automotive watch, the brand’s first open-worked timepiece.
The collection incorporates design features from the automotive world: Amboyna burl wood, a material commonly used in the instrument panels of high-end cars; elm burl wood dials and black alligator skin straps reminiscent of the rich interiors of Lauren’s Bugatti; and Arabic numerals that emulate those found on the car’s gauges. Each of the five pieces in the collection is powered by a Swiss mechanical movement.
"I’ve always been inspired by automotive design - the materials, the lines, but also the power and functionality. Cars are like art - moving art - an accomplishment in mechanics and precision," the American designer said.
The RL Automotive Skeleton’s shot-blasted case is made from black gunmetal steel and has a satiny matte finish; the bezel is hand-set and has six functioning screws.
