At the 2018 Watches & Wonders show in Miami that concluded yesterday, Ralph Lauren unveiled a new steel version of the 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. It offers a power reserve of 45-hours. 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 USD, which is more than fifteen grand cheaper than the original gunmetal version.
[Via:Ablogtowatch]