With their new Aquascope Rubbergator, JeanRichard combine the luxurious appearance of an alligator-skin strap with the versatility of rubber – and just in time for summer too!
The Merits of the Classic Alligator Watch Strap
Throughout the industry, watch companies are giving careful consideration to the materials which they source in order to reduce their environmental impact, and watch straps which are made from exotic skins naturally raise concerns among those who prefer guilt-free luxury. Ever since the gentlemen’s timepiece has evolved from pocket to wrist, the merits of an alligator watch strap have been appreciated. Known and loved for its symmetrical pattern, texture and tactile qualities, an alligator watch strap has a tactile quality which cannot be equalled – until now that is.
JeanRichard Aquascope Rubbergator – A Viable Alternative
In a collaboration with Mestel, HEPIA (Geneva University of applied sciences – technology, architecture and landscape) and Agie Charmilles (part of Georg Fischer Machining Solutions) JeanRichard have created a viable alternative. Made from 100% rubber, the new strap replicates the luxurious feeling of alligator leather, and its appearance to great effect. In order to accurately re-produce the nuances of alligator-skin leather HEPIA employed 3D scanning technology which enabled a reproduction of even the most diminutive details of the leather ensuring that the appearance once transferred using cutting-edge laser machinery would look exactly like the “real thing”. The authentic aesthetics of the newly developed material, coupled with its water-resistance make it the perfect companion for JeanRichard’s Aquascope collection.
JeanRichard Aquascope Rubbergator
The JeanRichard Aquascope Rubbergator model features a stainless steel case measuring 44mm across topped with a blue aluminium bezel. On a pristine white dial the blue indices are “suspended” adding to the impression of depth. Inside, the JeanRichard automatic Calibre JR60 retains a power reserve of 38 hours when fully wound. The new strap will be available in black, brown or white options each of which feature a steel folding buckle. The addition of a “leather” strap on a robust piece like the Aquascope really does add a superb touch of elegance, and the intentions of JeanRichard are so admirable that we should forgive them for giving it the rather sci-fi term “Rubbergator”.
JeanRichard Aquascope Rubbergator – Responsible Sourcing
Other watch brands which are mindful of the long-term effects of using leather include Vacheron Constantin who adhere to the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) for sourcing the leather which makes up their straps. A Lange & Söhne are a long-standing member of the International Reptilleder Verband (IRV) and they also abide by CITES regulations to ensure that the leather used to make their straps is sourced from farms who uphold ethical animal husbandry and they have also implemented a system whereby each of their leather straps can be traced back to source, and Piaget no longer use the skins of skates (Shagreen) nor the several different species of monitor lizards, pythons or crocodiles and require that their suppliers follow similar principles. Sticker Price: 2,800 Euros !
