Horological Meandering

Z3
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Live Photos of Ralph Lauren 2010 Novelties

PuristSPro's 2010 SIHH Live Reporting by Z3

Ralph Lauren 2010 Novelties

This is a watch brand that we hear almost nothing about on this forum, aside from its birth during SIHH 2009.

The brand collaborates with several of the Richemont brands, and uses movements from Piaget, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and IWC.

The unique offerings are their designs, which are intended to reflect the spirit, philosophy and the lifestyle of the Ralph Lauren brand.

From my conversations with its executives, the brand does not pretend to be something that they are not, and is completely open about the use of the movements.

As so many novelties were introduced last year (a total of 29 models, if I recall correctly), this year the focus is to introduce slightly smaller versions of several of last year's models.

The new Slim Classique is now in 38mm (WG and RG, two on the left) instead of 42mm (two on the right ). The movement is still the thin Piaget 430 movement.

The Slim Classique is, by far, my favorite among the entire RL line. The guilloche patterns are so intricate, the design  so clean, and the solid, domed case-back so smooth, providing ample space for personalized engravings.

The thinness is delicious. This is New England / Upper East Side simplicity and elegance at their best. 

42mm and 38mm versions with round diamonds on the bezel, and baguette diamonds on the bezel

The Sporting Chronograph Collection. Now offering a small version, as well as a version with polished (instead of brushed) bezel.

The screws are intentionally not lined up (a la AP Royal Oak style) to highlight their functionality (the bezel can be removed through the screws)

These watches use JLC automatic chronograph movements. Although the dial layout is nice, I feel the movement can be better finished for its price range, the steel bracelet is a bit shaky and flimsy, and the oversized "RL" logo on the clasp takes away some of the prestige and makes it look too fashion-like...and...cheap. 

(Gosh, I hope I don't sound too critical. Just being honest...).

Yours truly,

Jon (Z3)

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