Douglas
417
An Early Admirer Gone Sour, Alas
May 09, 2009,06:14 AM
Many thanks, JiaXian, for the report. You are thorough, understated when necessary,
and tireless.
An
overall observation (and as an owner): RM's early work possessed a very strong
aesthetic, an sense of wonderful innovation, and with both the RM009 and the
RM012 some wonderful expressions of design both bold and ironic. The same I
thought true in his earlier work. IMHO, however, the new work lacks focus,
direction, and seems far more intent on creating some 'uber' luxury watch with
minimal contribution to the world of horology. The new diver's watch seems an
embodiment of all that for me has gone amiss with the RM brand.
A
story best illustrates, in my head, the brand focus. At an art gathering last
November in NYC, there was a small group who was discussing watches and art and
a lovely lady mentioned Richard Mille. When she was asked what she liked and
admired her response was telling: "Well, those watches cost so much and have
what my boyfriend calls 'complications' that they must be the best, the new hot
watch, right?"
I
admire artisans with authenticity and a sense of its own DNA. I simply don't
know what that means for RM right now where price and design for its own sake
can quickly be associated with a garishness that belies the early work and the
foundation of the brand. I admire the man and his initiatives, but the new
product seems wholly lacking and beyond explication.
Forgive me if I am too harsh. It is only the opinion of an early
admirer.
Best
to all,
Douglas