Speake Marin watch designer Stéphane Lacroix explains the collaborative alchemy involved in creating the Ripples Skeleton
Stéphane Lacroix has worked as a watch designer since 2007. He is the creative force behind a team that includes master watchmakers, technicians and a CEO who are passionate about making sure every detail of a Speake Marin watch is the best it can be. Here, he sheds some light on the process and particular challenges of combining modern openworking with high watchmaking and a very specific design code.
- The Ripples Skeleton is an extremely complex design that is at the same time, balanced and minimalist. How did you achieve this balance between the technical and aesthetic?
The Ripples Skeleton was born of a desire to push the boundaries of watchmaking while maintaining timeless elegance. The balance between the technical and aesthetic aspects was at the heart of our creative approach, and relied on close collaboration between [Speake Marin CEO] Christelle Rosnoblet, our watchmakers, the product manager, and myself.
We began by studying the mechanical structure to expose only the essential elements, eliminating any superfluous material. The challenge was to maintain this transparency while preserving the spirit of Speake Marin as well as the Ripples watch collection.
The balance was achieved by playing with symmetry and clean lines, harmonizing each visible component with the rest of the design. We ensured that each mechanical detail contributed to the overall visual aspect without overwhelming the eye. Thus, we were able to marry technical sophistication with a minimalist aesthetic, creating a watch that is both an engineering feat and a refined design object.
2. What were the design techniques used to create it?
The process began with a series of sketches – around 100 – to explore different creative paths or just create simple variations. Then I moved on to 3D modeling to give these ideas concrete shape and to realistically visualize the forms, angles, and proportions.
What sets this skeleton apart from other models on the market is that, unlike watches generally designed by watchmakers, constructors, and engineers, the bridges of the Ripples Skeleton were conceived by a designer like me. I had the freedom to deviate from usual conventions to explore new shapes and concepts while preserving traditional watchmaking codes.
My primary goal was to open up the skeleton, making it visually more accessible and contemporary.
I was aware of the technical constraints, so I worked closely with the engineers. We went through many iterations, especially when it came to the bridges of the movement. They expertly worked to adjust their tolerances to fit the aesthetic requirements I had in mind.
3. What is the secret to designing something innovative while retaining the Ripples DNA? How does the latest design achieve that?
Designing a unique timepiece while staying true to the Ripples identity is a delicate but exciting exercise. It is about finding the right balance between innovation and tradition, between boldness and coherence.
The DNA of Ripples is characterized by fluid lines. Innovation must not come at the expense of heritage. It’s about bringing a new perspective, pushing boundaries, while staying true to the aesthetic and technical codes that have made the Ripples watch a success. That’s why the small seconds dial positioned at 1:30 follows the design codes of the Ripples dials from the parent collection.
4. Did you encounter any problems along the way? What was the biggest challenge in creating it?
The biggest challenge was designing this watch in mirror image, as it is a skeleton watch. Finding harmonious shapes on both sides when the anchor points are not the same is truly a complex task (I wonder if we could elaborate on this a bit ?) It was necessary to ensure that the aesthetics were perfect from every angle while considering the transparency of the movement. It was important to make sure nothing disrupted the perception of the dial through the transparency.
It was an amazing challenge! I have worked on skeleton watches before, but never with these design codes, nor with such a high level of refinement and detail required. Proportionally and visually, it’s hard to imagine this project in any other way, as every detail is crucial to the overall harmony.
5. Can you tell us something about the original inspiration behind the Ripples, and how it will evolve going forward? How does it answer to what collectors are looking for right now?
As a designer for Speake Marin, my role is to interpret and translate a particular vision while respecting the brand’s DNA. Speake Marin gave me the freedom to explore these concepts, but it is primarily their artistic direction and the exchange with Christelle Rosnoblet that guides the evolution of the collection.
I work closely with the team to ensure each new design reflects the essence of the brand while incorporating touches of modernity and innovation, while striving to meet the expectations of today’s collectors. What I can say is that the house focuses on balancing exclusivity, watchmaking expertise, and creativity. Collectors are looking for unique pieces, and Speake Marin ensures each model in the Ripples collection, whether current or future, retains this rarity and sophistication.
My role as a designer is to bring my expertise to ensure that vision comes to life, and to explore concepts and turn ideas into sketches, guaranteeing they are in harmony with the spirit of the house. I’ve been working with Speake Marin for some time now, but my work ends once the sketches and drafts are approved. From there, it’s the team that turns these ideas into reality.