Ralph Lauren Launches Automotive Skeleton Stainless Steel Edition

By Paul Joseph

Among the array of eye-catching pieces on display at the 2018 Watches & Wonders show in Miami that concluded recently was a stunning piece by Ralph Lauren.

The famous American brand unveiled a new steel version of its hugely popular RL Automotive Skeleton, the company’s first open-worked timepiece.

Aptly named Ralph Lauren Automotive Skeleton Steel, the watch is visually very similar to its skeletonized predecessor – Bugatti-inspired RL Automotive Skeleton.

But instead of the black PVD-coated and bead-blasted finish on the case and movement on the original Automotive Skeleton, the steel version boasts a full stainless steel build with both polished and brushed finish.

It also has an Amboyna burl wood bezel surrounding the dial which is secured by screws, referencing rivets that reinforce the chassis of a classic 1950’s race car.

The RL Automotive Skeleton Steel is powered by the manually-wound Caliber RL1967, which was developed by IWC exclusively for Ralph Lauren and then further skeletonized by Val Fleurier – a Richemont-owned movement manufacturer.

The case measures 44.80mm by 11.20mm, and the watch is available with two bracelet options: a 3-link steel bracelet, or a brown alligator leather strap.

The steel version of the Automotive Skeleton is set to retail for around $34,200.

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By Paul Joseph