Lexus France has recently unveiled an unexpected but thrilling partnership with the revered French watchmaker Ralf Tech. This distinctive alliance has led to the creation of a uniquely captivating timepiece: the Ralf Tech X Lexus watch, which charmingly mirrors several aesthetic and technological features of Lexus’ revolutionary electric SUV, the Lexus RZ.
Since its inception, Lexus has been a symbol of uncompromising excellence, pioneering in technology, and unwavering in its commitment to quality and reliability, as is evident in its Takumi master artisans’ remarkable craftsmanship. With the unveiling of the Lexus RZ, Lexus continues its journey as a trailblazer in the world of electric SUVs. Meanwhile, this pursuit of excellence isn’t confined to the automobile realm. On the other side of the industry spectrum, the Ralf Tech brand, created by professional diver Frank Huyghe in 1996, has echoed Lexus’s ethos in its unique universe.
Ralf Tech, primarily a diving equipment brand, signifies “technological,” but also denotes “technical” or “tek” diving which requires specialized equipment, similar to how Lexus vehicles are crafted with specialized tech and design considerations. Today, Ralf Tech is renowned for designing and producing high-quality diving watches, harnessing advanced technology to serve both individuals and professionals.
In a fascinating parallel of innovation, Ralf Tech, like Lexus, stands at the vanguard of their respective industries. As Lexus made a name for itself as the first premium car manufacturer to sell hybrid vehicles, Ralf Tech became a pioneer in the watchmaking industry with its hybrid movements. These movements combine the precision of a quartz movement with natural energy harnessed from wrist movements and stored in a miniaturized battery.
“The collaboration between Lexus France and Ralf Tech was destined to happen. We are extremely delighted with this partnership, which seemed innate considering the shared values of our brands,” said Xavier Riva, Director of Lexus France.
The Lexus RZ 450e represents the brand’s first foray into vehicles developed solely as electric cars. This electric beast is a zero-emission innovation that encapsulates Lexus’s abundant experience in electrification. Lexus has taken an electric vehicle beyond mere environmental friendliness to epitomize the brand’s exceptional refinement and driving experience.
Similarly, the Ralf Tech X Lexus watch, modeled on Ralf Tech’s WRV Electric, offers several bespoke features echoing the Lexus RZ’s design. The dial, adorned with the original “In-ei” pattern of lights and shadows featured on the RZ’s doors, and the grey Alcantara strap, reminiscent of the RZ’s Ultrasuede seat fabric, make a clear nod to the SUV’s aesthetic. Furthermore, the Lexus logo is tastefully engraved on the back of the watch case. The Ralf Tech X Lexus watch is powered by an ELECTRIC RTE001 movement, boasting an impressive power reserve of up to 100,000 hours.
Water-resistant up to 300 meters, featuring a 43.8 mm surgical steel case and a domed sapphire glass, this exceptional timepiece is a limited edition, with just 77 numbered copies on offer. It will be available at Lexus dealers in France by the end of June, priced at €2,400 including tax. This timepiece isn’t just a watch; it’s a testament to technological prowess and an homage to style, a true embodiment of what Lexus and Ralf Tech stand for in their respective fields.
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