RALF TECH Academie Automatic Diplomate 41mm
There is a point at which simplicity stops being simple and becomes elegance. The Diplomate sits comfortably on the other side of that line.
The most refined member of the Académie family, the Diplomate combines a polished 41mm steel case with a deep black lacquered dial and applied steel indices.
There is very little decoration because very little is needed.
Old Radium Super-LumiNova® adds warmth to the hands and markers, while the glassbox sapphire introduces the soft curvature of a watch from another era. A hand-sewn black alligator strap completes what is perhaps RALF TECH's most traditionally elegant watch.
Yet appearances remain slightly deceptive.
Inside is the RTA003 automatic movement, offering up to 40 hours of power reserve, while a screw-down crown and caseback deliver an unexpectedly serious 200 metres of water resistance.
A black Tropic silicone strap is also supplied — because even a Diplomate occasionally needs to loosen his tie.
Only 100 pieces will be produced.
Why buy it?
Because true elegance rarely requires explanation.
The polished steel, lacquered black dial and alligator strap give the Diplomate a beautifully formal presence without becoming old-fashioned.
And beneath that civility lies the reassuring knowledge that this is still a RALF TECH: automatic, robust and water resistant to 200 metres.
A watch for occasions — without being a watch you can only wear on occasions.