RALF TECH Academie Automatic Tundra 41mm
There are colours that decorate a watch. And there are colours that give it a character.
The Tundra belongs firmly in the latter camp.
RALF TECH takes the classical 41mm architecture of the Académie and gives it a matte green dial inspired by the colours of the 1960s and the natural world. It is distinctive without becoming loud; unusual without becoming difficult to wear.
Against the green, the satin-finished 316L steel case feels particularly well judged. Steel indices, simple hands and the absence of a date keep the dial beautifully clean, while the domed glassbox sapphire adds just enough vintage atmosphere.
But, as so often with RALF TECH, appearances tell only half the story.
The Tundra has a screw-down crown and caseback and is water resistant to 200 metres. Inside is the automatic RTA003 movement, offering up to 44 hours of power reserve. It is considerably more capable than its elegant proportions might suggest.
Wear it on the hand-sewn black calfskin strap and it has an easy, understated elegance. Change to the supplied black Tropic strap and its more adventurous side begins to emerge.
Only 100 pieces will be made.
Why buy it?
Because the Tundra does not feel like a conventional green watch.
There is something almost organic about the colour — softer than military olive, quieter than emerald and wonderfully sympathetic to the satin steel surrounding it.
More importantly, this is a watch that can change character with you. Leather, a shirt and dinner one evening; Tropic strap, water and a weekend away the next.
That combination of individuality and genuine usability is difficult to manufacture.
RALF TECH has managed it rather well.
A little piece of the wilderness, contained within 41 millimetres of steel.