Hello, today I would like to talk to you about a brand that is doing beautiful things with designs that I find quite successful. It is the brand Speake-Marin. Before presenting one of the variations of the Speake-Marin Ripples, I would like to introduce you to the history of this brand created by Peter Speake-Marin and Daniela Marin in London before relocating to Switzerland.
Before creating this brand, Peter began his studies in 1985 at Hackney Technical College in London, then at Wostep in Neuchâtel, before working for several companies in the UK, such as Watches of Switzerland on Oxford Street, Piaget on New Bond Street in London, and Omega in Southampton. Then, for six years, he developed a restoration workshop and a network for Somlo Antiques in Piccadilly, London.
Then, in 1996, he moved to Switzerland to work at Renaud & Papi in Le Locle, where he spent 4 years involved in various activities, from building tourbillons to training and product development. He became independent in 2000, creating his small workshop and founding the brand in 2002 with Daniela Marin.
While developing the brand, he also collaborated on model designs with Harry Winston and MB&F. In 2008, he decided to end the collaborations. In 2009, Daniela decided to leave the company and sell her shares to Peter. In 2017, 17 years after becoming independent, Peter left the brand and handed it over to the Rosnoblet family.
First presented at Watches and Wonders 2022, the Ripples collection is now introduced with a beautiful green dial. Very different from the brand’s previous models, this collection has retained the DNA and heritage of its beginnings while giving it a slightly more accessible, less neo-classical twist. Now, let’s examine the watch.
What are the characteristics of the Speake-Marin Ripples Metallic Green?
Case
The Speake-Marin Ripples Metallic Green features a case designed by Stéphane Lacroix, which combines round and square shapes in polished and satin-finished stainless steel, with an octagonal bezel with rounded, beveled, and polished edges, and a screw-down crown. Inspired by the architecture of the City district, the case measures 40.30 mm in diameter and 9.20 mm in thickness. It is water-resistant to 5 ATM, offering a balance between presence and comfort.
Dial
The Speake-Marin Ripples Metallic Green boasts a metallic green dial inspired by a specific London architectural landmark: the Sky Garden, an oasis of greenery atop the famous “Walkie Talkie” building in the heart of the City. This place reflects a sense of calm and reminds us that nature’s beauty can coexist with the bustling energy of a city. The wavy pattern of the dial reminds me of the gentle waves of the Thames, adding a dynamic play of shadows and light that enhances overall readability. The dial is made of rhodium-plated brass with hand-satinated waves, a green metallic PVD coating, and a transparent lacquer layer.
Movement
The Speake-Marin Ripples Metallic Green houses the SMA03-T automatic movement with a tungsten micro-rotor developed by Le Cercle de Horlogers. Consisting of 144 components and 31 jewels, this movement is finished with Geneva stripes, bridges with beveled and polished inner edges, and a pearled mainplate. Beating at a frequency of 4 Hz, this movement guarantees a rather modest 52-hour power reserve when fully wound.
Bracelet
The Speake-Marin Ripples Metallic Green comes with an integrated three-link bracelet in polished/satin-finished stainless steel, equipped with a double folding clasp.
How much does the Speake-Marin Ripples Metallic Green?
The Speake-Marin Ripples Metallic Green is a limited edition of 60 pieces. It is offered at a price of 23,000 CHF (Excluding VAT).
Speake-Marin Ripples Metallic Green: A haven of peace with a thousand shades of green
Overall, the Speake-Marin Ripples Metallic Green is a blend of sophisticated design, innovative engineering, and exceptional craftsmanship, reflecting the brand’s British heritage and Swiss watchmaking expertise. Inspired by the concept of an urban oasis, the watch is designed to invite wearers to escape to a serene garden located in the middle of a bustling urban landscape. I think this watch can bring dynamism with its dial and unique construction. Special mention goes to the small seconds located at 2:30, which is a beautiful touch. The only point I find to be reviewed is this bracelet, which, due to its finish, will take a lot of scratches, which in my case is not pleasant to see on a daily basis. I would like to thank Madelyne and Wissem, who form a great duo within this brand.
Speake-Marin Ripples Metallic Green – Watch Specifications
- Brand: Speake-Marin
- Reference: 604015460
- Model: Ripples Metallic Green
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Dial: Metallic Green PVD
- Functions: Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds
- Movement: SMA03-T, developed by Cercle de Horlogers, Self-Winding, 28’800vph frequency (4Hz), 31 jewels and 144 parts
- Power Reserve: 52 Hours
- Water Resistance: 5 ATM
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Caseback: Sapphire
- Case Dimension: 40,3 mm (Diameter) × 9,20 mm (Thickness)
- Strap: Stainless Steel with Folding Clasp
- Availability : Limited edition of 60 pieces
- Price: CHF 23’000 (Excluding VAT)
Do you like watches with integrated bracelets? What do you think of green dial watches? Give me your opinion in the comment section.
For more information about Speake-Marin, click here.
