Technology-wise, we may be advancing more into the future, but when it comes to fashion, plenty are enamored by the charms of decades past. The same could be observed with watches, with even casual buyers appreciating the simple and legible designs over futuristic ones. Ralph Lauren takes the same vintage direction, but this time away from the fancy parties and the like into the wild and rugged jungle. Behold, the brand’s RL67 Safari Grand Date watch.
Release Date & Price
Release date: 2013
Price: US$4,850.00 – $5,350.00
Ralph Lauren first launched his safari-inspired apparel back in 1980s as he was enchanted by the romantic vibe of the African jungles. This hasn’t changed one bit, with the designer expressing his desire to return to the wild for inspiration years after his first collection. For him, it was a place where there is still order against a rough and less predictable backdrop, albeit not immediately noticeable when compared to an urban landscape. Ralph Lauren’s idea of an expedition away from the cities is manifested in his watches with handsome gunmetal cases and colors that one would normally associate with nature.
Specifications:
- Markers: Super-LumiNova®
- Crystal covering: anti-reflective sapphire.
- Water resistance: 5 bar
- Strap: black alligator leather
- Movement: RL367 caliber, mechanical manual winding
- Power reserve: 72 hours.
- Frequency: 21,600 vibrations/hour
- Functions: double tourbillon, hours; minutes
Pros
Ralph Lauren’s RL67 Safari Grand Date’s strength lies on its legibility—the date as well as the numbers and the marker are very prominent on the dial. There is also an impression of a balanced design despite the larger than usual indicators that are only proportionate to the dial’s 50mm width. The hands do not only come in distinct colors that add depth to the dial, it also is made with Super-LumiNova®, not allowing insufficient light to be a hindrance in having a readable timepiece. For vintage lovers, the gunmetal case looks handsome whether with a plain or camouflage dial, and a leather or “aged” stainless steel strap.
Cons
Its main selling point besides its being fashionable is its legibility, but this comes with a price—it has a larger size that will occupy considerable space on your wrist, making it slightly burdensome and less than desirable when you have to wear long-sleeved shirts. The large size comes with an arguably steep price tag too, which may not be justified for some as the RL67 Safari Grand Date just lands right between a fashion watch and a complicated timepiece.
Compare With
- Hermès Cape Cod GM Matte Black Leather Wrap
- Chopard L.U.C XP Skeletec
- Bulgari Octo 18k Pink Gold and Alligator Strap
- Vacheron Constantin Patrimony 85180
Image Credits: WorldTempus (featured image), Hodinkee, Watchonista (article images)
