Masterfully bridging the automotive and horological worlds, the stainless steel timepiece is the latest addition to Ralph Lauren’s renowned Automotive skeleton collection. The steel Skeleton strikes a harmonious balance between industrial power and sophisticated design by artfully cutting away the main plate to reveal the intricate mechanics underneath. The combination of polished and brushed steel components – including polished screws that reference the rivets securing the chassis of a car – directly references one of Mr. Lauren’s prized 1950s race cars. The case measures 44.8mm by 11.2mm and is powered by a Swiss-made F.A. Jones mechanical movement that has been customized for Ralph Lauren.
Amboyna burl – a hardwood used in luxury automotive interiors, featured in Ralph Lauren’s own vintage cars – frames the composition with a lustrous bezel, which must be carefully cut and finished by hand to expose its rich, swirling grain patterns. The “bombé”-shaped bezel secured by handset screws reinforces Ralph Lauren’s vision of a timepiece capturing the power and elegance of automotive design.
This specially customized watch features an exclusive “Swiss Institute / TimeForArt 2022” engraving on the back of the case.
Generously donated by Ralph Lauren, the watch is being sold to benefit the missions of Swiss Institute.
The buyer of this lot may be eligible to receive a charitable tax deduction for their purchase. Please see section 10 of this Auction’s Conditions of Sale.
Ref. 468836800001 An interesting stainless steel skeletonized wristwatch with bracelet, burlwood bezel, engraved “TimeForArt”, sold to benefit Swiss Institute
2018 45mm Diameter Case, dial, movement, and bracelet signed.