Ralph Lauren Watches Part 2: The Sporting Collection

by Ariel Adams (RSS feed)
Jan 23rd 2009 at 12:05PM

First for the new Ralph Lauren watch brand I discussed the Stirrup Collection. Featured here is the second line, the Sporting Collection. I commented on how the Stirrup Collection looked like a design melding between Cartier and Hermes; well the same is true here. True to its name, the Sporting Collection is more sporty then the Stirrup of Classic Slim collection. Six large screws keep the bezel looking strong, yet can pass for being functional if necessary. It's strong looks aren't aggressive looking though, which is nice as this watch says "I bathe horses for fun."

I am on the fence about the application of the Ralph Lauren logo, and whether I admire it or not. It is certainly retro, reminding you of a time when branding was less of an issue that it is today. The models come in three flavors. A subsidiary seconds model (the Classic) , the Chronograph, and the World Timer with power reserve. Metals are either steel or gold. Again, Richemont gives Ralph Lauren access to the parts bin, and the Sporting Collection features IWC mechanical movements such as the RL98295 for the world timer. My pick is the black-faced chronograph on the metal bracelet, that is a sure hit.

Ariel Adams publishes the watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Gallery: Ralph Lauren Sporting Watch Collection