Ralph Lauren Automotive Model Inspired by Bugatti 57 SC Atlantic 1938

Watchmaker Ralph Lauren created a timepiece bringing together the worlds of haute horlogerie and luxury automobiles. Inspired by the designer’s own Bugatti 57 SC Atlantic 1938, the Automotive Model (part of the Ralph Lauren Sporting Collection) features unique touches like a dial inlaid with elm burlwood.

The automative world has long been an inspiration for Lauren’s sleek designs – his beloved Bugatti 57 SC Atlantic 1938 was even featured on the designer’s magazine. “I’ve always liked purposeful things, things that are designed not just to be decorative. I like sports and speed, style and beauty,” Lauren said. Well, the Automotive Model is just that; a combination of form and function. This model begins with a 44.80mm-diameter stainless steel dial, inlaid with elm burlwood. At the heart of this timepiece is a RL98295 caliber movement, created for Ralph Lauren by the IWC Manufacture. The 156-component movement, which features 18 jewels, works at 18 000 vibrations/hour (2.5 Hz) and provides a 45 hour power reserve. The vertical Côtes de Genève and perlage can be glimpsed through the sapphire crystal case back.

The Automotive model is completed by either a black calfskin leather strap with pin buckle or a stainless steel bracelet.

The Ralph Lauren Automotive Model is pictured with black leather strap, reference RLR0220701, and with stainless steel bracelet, reference RLR0220000. Photos courtesy Ralph Lauren.