In full gallop

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In full gallop - Ralph Lauren
2 minutes read
Iconic in style and modern in execution, Ralph Lauren’s Stirrup Collection shows it has all the credentials to stand the test of time.

According to Ralph Lauren, undeniably a leading voice in contemporary style: “Fashion is over quickly. Style is forever.” One of the recurrent questions in watch design has always been how to ensure longevity. In other words, how does a watch remain timeless? There are, of course, numerous examples of watches that have stood the test of time, but few have done it quite as radically as Ralph Lauren’s Stirrup collection.

Launched in 2009, the Stirrup made quite the world debut on the watchmaking scene, being one of the first collections the brand presented just a year after having announced its joint venture into watchmaking with the Richemont Group. The Stirrup, from its conception to execution, is a love letter to the equestrian world. As the name suggests, the case is shaped like a stirrup: the base edged straight with the lines following up and over in an elegant arc. Offering a bold expression of design, Ralph Lauren distinguished itself from other watchmakers, bringing a certain level of taste and noblesse that only a brand with a rich history of enduring style could elicit.

In full gallop

Style in all sizes

One of the tell-tale signs of a timeless design is how effortlessly it can be worn and adapted to different tastes. While the Stirrup remains a bestseller in the women’s category for Ralph Lauren, it was designed to be a unisex watch. The straight-edged and curved arc of the case is universal – which is only natural given the equal-opportunity nature of horse riding. In the 11 years since its introduction, the Stirrup has come in an array of versions, each as wearable as the last.

The larger case diameter features chronograph models for those leaning towards sportier watches, while the smaller case sizes afford a wealth of Stirrup possibilities: dials in white or black lacquer or even mother-of-pearl, polished stainless steel or gold cases, either bare or set with diamonds, available with an array of colorful straps (alligator, calfskin or even bridle leather with contrast stitching) that are easily interchangeable via an easy release stud at 12 o’clock on the tab of the strap. In 2014, Ralph Lauren also introduced a chain-link bracelet (either in gold or steel), composed of intertwining links seamlessly flowing into one other to ensure optimal comfort on the wrist.

The classic Roman numerals, sword-shaped hands and stirrup-shaped case remain the guiding thread in the collection and confirm its original intent to accompany today’s modern woman (or even man) with the style, grace and freedom of a horse in full gallop.

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