Ralph Lauren’s Ricky Trench Coat Polo Bear Steals the Spotlight This Holiday Season
Today we explore the Ralph Lauren's Ricky Bear Trench Coat Polo watch, the innovation of Kross Studio, Hamilton’s partnership with Air Zermatt, and the latest of De Bethune, Omega and Montblanc
THIS WEEK’S NEWS
Who is the Ricky Trench Coat Polo Bear?
As Geneva embraces the festive season, Ralph Lauren introduces a captivating new addition to its Polo Bear watch collection: the Ricky Trench Coat Polo Bear. This release marks a milestone, as it features the first-ever female bear in the series, a tribute to Ralph Lauren’s wife, Ricky, and her celebrated sense of style.
The Polo Bear has been an iconic emblem of Ralph Lauren since 1991. Its story began after Ralph Lauren’s brother Jerry received a teddy bear dressed just like him. Over time, this charming idea grew into a whole collection of bear items, appearing across clothing, accessories, and, starting in 2018, with watches.
This new iteration embodies elegance paired with a playful edge. The Ricky Bear is depicted in a tailored tuxedo, with a trench coat casually draped over her shoulders, and completed with stylish leopard-print shoes. These details reflect Ricky Lauren’s signature 1930s Hollywood-inspired sophistication, lending the timepiece a distinctive, feminine allure.
The watch itself is equally refined. It features a polished 38mm stainless steel case, a cream lacquered dial with the Ricky Bear prominently displayed at its center, and is powered by a reliable automatic movement. A dark brown leather strap adds a timeless finishing touch.
For the holiday season, the Ralph Lauren Ricky Trench Coat Polo Bear watch is an ideal choice. Whether it becomes a thoughtful gift or a special addition to your own collection, this timepiece blends whimsy and elegance effortlessly, making it a perfect fit for those seeking something truly unique this winter.
Team Test: WorldTempus x Montblanc
To celebrate Reinhold Messner’s 80th birthday, Montblanc unveiled the 1858 Geosphere Chronograph 0 Oxygen Limited Edition, a remarkable tribute limited to 290 pieces. Messner, a legendary mountaineer and explorer, is renowned for feats such as the first solo ascent of Everest without supplemental oxygen and scaling all 14 peaks over 8,000 meters.
The watch combines innovative engineering with a striking design. Housed in a 44mm lightweight titanium case, it features a burgundy dial adorned with a red sfumato glacier pattern inspired by Antarctica, accentuated by luminescent numerals and ruthenium-coated hands. The bi-directional black ceramic bezel adds functionality and a bold frame to this adventurous timepiece.
Central to the watch’s appeal is its world time complication, showcasing rotating globes for the northern and southern hemispheres, accompanied by a 24-hour scale and a day/night indicator. This design celebrates the spirit of exploration while maintaining intuitive readability.
Powering the watch is the Montblanc Manufacture Automatic Chronograph Calibre MB 29.27, comprising 266 components and offering a 46-hour power reserve. Montblanc’s Zero Oxygen Technology enhances its durability, eliminating the risks of fogging and oxidation. Specially formulated lubricants ensure optimal performance even at temperatures as low as -50°C.
One standout feature is the case back, which includes a 3D laser engraving of a photo taken by Messner at the summit of K2, his favorite climb. This unique detail, combined with the watch’s robust construction, makes it an emblematic piece for collectors and adventurers alike.
WATCH REVIEW
Inside Kross Studio
Kross Studio, established in 2020 in Gland, Switzerland, blends innovative watchmaking with partnerships from the world of entertainment. During a recent guided tour, the WorldTempus team delved into the brand's distinctive approach to craftsmanship and creativity.
A key element of Kross Studio’s success lies in its fully integrated manufacturing process. From the CNC milling department, where main plates, bridges, titanium cases, and buckles are crafted, to the final assembly, every step is handled in-house. This meticulous approach guarantees not only exceptional quality but also allows the brand to produce limited editions and bespoke creations tailored to individual clients.
The centerpiece of Kross Studio's designs is its patented central flying tourbillon. Originally conceived to incorporate an oversized barrel for an impressive 120-hour power reserve, this design places the tourbillon mechanism at the center of the dial. The result is a hypnotic effect, with the tourbillon appearing to float above the movement, captivating the wearer.
What sets Kross Studio apart is its fusion of watchmaking with pop culture. Collaborations with globally recognized franchises like Star Wars, Batman, and Wonder Woman go beyond conventional branding. Each timepiece is complemented by a unique collector's set, intricately designed to reflect the universe it represents.
As Kross Studio approaches its fifth anniversary in 2025, the company is preparing to make its debut at Watches & Wonders Geneva. Among the other exciting announcements is a Harry Potter-themed creation. Stay tuned to WorldTempus for further details on this enchanting collaboration.
The Beauty of De Bethune
Renowned for its innovative approach, De Bethune has established itself as a leader in independent watchmaking. Beyond its celebrated technical achievements, the brand is equally committed to showcasing artistry in its creations.
Take the DB28, for example. Introduced in 2010, this iconic model initially challenged conventional aesthetics with its bold, futuristic design. Over time, it has become emblematic of independent, avant-garde watchmaking. The latest evolution, the DB28xs Aérolite, pushes creative boundaries further. Its dial, crafted from heat-treated meteorite, reveals the captivating Widmanstätten patterns unique to this material. Enhanced with guilloché engravings, the result is a harmonious blend of science and artistic mastery.
De Bethune's focus on cultural storytelling is evident in pieces like the Dream Watch 5 Al-Amal. Launched at the Mavericks of Time exhibition, this watch features Arabic calligraphy celebrating the many forms of love expressed in the Arabic language. Similarly, earlier models such as the DB25 Quetzacoatl and DB25 Imperial Fountain explore folklore and history from diverse cultures, showcasing De Bethune's dedication to merging horology with heritage.
At the heart of this creative vision is Denis Flageollet, one of the most respected master watchmakers in Switzerland today. His ability to balance technical innovation with a passion for the applied arts sets him apart. Watches like the Dream Watch 5 Meteorite, entirely crafted from sculpted meteorite, demonstrate his bold, pragmatic approach to watchmaking.
With its distinctive ability to combine mechanical ingenuity, cultural resonance, and artistic elegance, De Bethune continues to redefine the boundaries of haute horlogerie. Each piece is not just a watch but a testament to the artistry and innovation that define the brand’s philosophy.
WATCH KNOWLEDGE
How Hamilton’s CEO Vivian Stauffer Champions the Brand’s Partnership with Air Zermatt
Vivian Stauffer, CEO of Hamilton and an avid pilot, sheds light on the brand’s collaboration with Air Zermatt, an alliance rooted in shared values and mutual admiration. The partnership began in 2011 when Air Zermatt approached Hamilton for financial backing on a Nepalese project to train pilots in the Himalayas. Stauffer recalls, “When they explained the story to us, we immediately knew we wanted to support them. We believe in this kind of transmission of know-how, so that's where it all started 13 years ago.”
What continues to captivate Stauffer is the amount of coordination required in Air Zermatt’s rescue missions. Pilots, paramedics, mountain guides, avalanche dog trainers, and helicopter mechanics all play crucial roles in the success of Air Zermatt’s missions.
The partnership also inspires Hamilton’s watch designs. For example, the Khaki Aviation Flight Timer emerged from direct input by Air Zermatt pilots. Stauffer explains, “The pilots used the watch for around six or eight months before we even decided to make it, as we needed to be sure that everything inside the watch was working properly.” Such collaborations bring fresh perspectives, unburdened by traditional constraints, into Hamilton’s craftsmanship.
Another milestone is the co-branded boutique in Zermatt. Initially launched as a pop-up during the pandemic, it evolved into a permanent space that promotes both Air Zermatt’s mission and Hamilton’s range of timepieces. Its success has even sparked discussions about expanding to a larger location.
Looking forward, Hamilton is gearing up to celebrate its 15-year partnership with Air Zermatt in 2026, hinting at a special product launch. Stauffer envisions this as an opportunity to share their shared story globally, noting, “It would be wonderful to share their story in Japan, the U.S., and beyond.”
Give Me Five: The Best Omega Releases in 2024
Omega’s 2024 collection showcases its enduring legacy in Swiss watchmaking, seamlessly blending tradition and modernity. This year’s standout creations, from the iconic Speedmaster to the celestial Constellation line, demonstrate the brand’s dedication to precision, aesthetics, and innovation.
The White Side of the Moon brings a fresh perspective to the Speedmaster Moonwatch. This 42mm model features a white lacquered dial inspired by NASA’s Alaska Project. At its heart lies the Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, delivering exceptional accuracy. The striking red "Speedmaster" lettering and lunar references pay homage to Omega’s storied space exploration heritage.
In a celebration of its roots, Omega revisits the "First Omega in Space" CK 2998 under the banner of Vintage Reimagined. This 39.7mm stainless steel edition retains its classic symmetry, complemented by a grey-blue CVD-coated dial reminiscent of the original model. Modern updates include luminous Alpha hands and a refined Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, ensuring top-notch performance while preserving its vintage charm.
The Seamaster Diver 300M series dives deep into nostalgia with aluminum dials and laser-engraved wave patterns, drawing inspiration from the Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition. These 42mm models, powered by the reliable Calibre 8806, combine robust functionality with a retro aesthetic.
Omega’s Constellation collection introduces meteorite dials, crafted from Muonionalusta meteorites over 4.5 billion years old. Enhanced by galvanic treatments and unique Widmanstätten patterns, these 41mm watches blend cosmic elegance with cutting-edge craftsmanship.
Finally, the Supernova Style models in the Constellation line redefine luxury, offering 25mm designs with swirling dials in colors like lilac and mint green. Crafted in Sedna or Moonshine Gold, with diamond-set bezels, they fuse horology and jewelry effortlessly.
Each release underscores Omega's unyielding commitment to pushing boundaries while honoring its storied past, reinforcing its role as a leader in watchmaking innovation.
MUST-SEE THIS WEEK
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