Ralph Lauren has announced the addition of two new timepieces in their exceptional American Western Watch Collection. They are variations on the existing, engraved 42mm cushion case watches and are paired with hand-tooled leather straps. Where the first cushioned case models featured white dials, these new additions are offered with black dials.

For nearly 60 years, Ralph Lauren has been arguably the most iconic American fashion designer in existence, personifying and defining what American style means. Amongst the various collections that Ralph Lauren has on offer, there is perhaps no other as evocative, or perhaps romantic, as Double RL. It is a collection inspired by the myths, legends, and style of the American West – denim shirts with pearl buttons, vintage inspired tweed blazers, heavy boots, hand-tooled leather.

The on offer watches make for the perfect accompaniment to the western themed offerings. Available in either sterling silver or 18k rose gold, both watches are hand engraved with detailing and filigree reminiscent of the work found on fine belt buckles and tack. That work is done by hand, by world class engravers in New York City. As a result, each case is a unique work of art.

The black dials are accented by bright white details, including white Breguet-style hands. The hours alternate between Arabic and roman numerals, the former located at 12, 3, 6, and 9. The leather straps are hand-tooled in Texas and then burnished in Italy. Within the finely detailed cases are automatic winding movements, exclusively built for Ralph Lauren by none other than Piaget. The totality of this work results in truly heirloom quality timepieces.

Apart from the distinctly modern sizing, the overall aesthetics are beyond vintage -they’re antique, and in the best way possible. At the turn of the last century, men’s watches were intended to be worn in the pocket. Before long, wires were welded to the smaller watches, which were then strapped to the wrists for utility’s sake. While these pieces in the American Western collection do not feature wire lugs, which results in a more contemporary aesthetic, blending new with old.

With such unique and intricate details, it’s the kind of craftsmanship that can be owned, studied, and appreciated for years. The sterling silver, in particular, will undoubtedly take on additional patina as it ages. In style and emotional impact, these watches are the kind that one dreams of finding at an estate sale or under the counter of a fabulous antique store – the future heirlooms and treasures of tomorrow. Talismans of a time long past.

Tech Specs

Movement: Automatic winding Calibre RL514 movement, provided Piaget exclusively for Ralph Lauren
Function: Minutes, Hours
Case: 42mm x 42mm case, Hand Engraved 18k Rose Gold or Sterling Silver Case, Water Resistant to 50 meters
Dial: Black lacquered & polished dial
Strap: Tooled black and brown calfskin leather with engraved pin buckle
Price: USD 24,600 (Western 42mm Engraved Sterling Silver) or USD 40,100 (Western 42 mm Engraved 18k Rose Gold)