The country of Switzerland is known for a variety cultural touchstones: chocolate, Roger Federer, and watches. 88 Rue du Rhone is looking to add to the rich Swiss tradition of making quality timepieces with their own brand of luxury wristwatches like the Double 8 Origin 39mm pictured above.
Formed by brothers Elie and Pierre Bernheim (grandsons of famous Swiss watchmaker Raymond Weil), 88 Rue du Rhone watches are made with nothing but exceptional quality, sophisticated design and accessible prices in mind. The brand’s name comes from the “mystery” of the only missing street number on the Rue du Rhone in Geneva—an exact location with a stunning view of the Rhone leaving Lake Geneva that conjures the great history of the country and Switzerland and all of its creations.
The Double 8 Origin is a legitimate “Swiss Made” product and features fundamental design qualities such as a stitched black, calf leather strap, a 39mm polished steel case and a deep black time face that lists the date at 3 o’clock; all qualities that a man looks for in a timeless wrist watch. Meanwhile, the silver numerals (in a unique Arab font) set on the black dial provide a unique aesthetic that will appeal to the bold entrepreneur and the reserved traditionalist alike. And the vibrant red second hand stands out for both the man who has to be somewhere in a city immediately or the guy who is content to let the day pass sitting in a wooden armchair deep in rolling country hills.
88 Rue du Rhone is also the official timepiece of the BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts). In 2013, the two will be teaming up for a variety of events including the BAFTA Film Awards, the BAFTA Television Awards, and the BAFTA Masterclass Sessions—a year round program of film screenings, tributes, lectures and debates. This partnership has further cemented 88 Rue du Rhone as one of the most fashionable brands of watches available today.
Though most of us seem to be pressed for time these days, with beautifully made watches like these time doesn’t really matter—because it’s design and appeal will remain timeless.