ALB Sur-Mesure Level III: Creation of the “Streamliner” Watch

The custom-made jewelry watch "Streamliner" , created by ALB , was born from the desire to design a unique piece for a client passionate about art, noble materials and the automotive world. He entrusted us with the task of creating a custom-made watch without compromise, with only one central theme as a directive: the automobile. Thanks to the creative freedom we were granted, we were able to explore various inspirations and give birth to a timepiece that was both bold and refined.

Completion time: 18 months
Final budget: 8500 euros

The Concept: A watch inspired by the automobile of the 20s-40s

We drew on the icons of the automotive world, particularly those from the 1920s to the 1940s. During this period, the automobile was not only functional, it was a mobile work of art. It is with this idea that the Streamliner watch was born: a perfect symbiosis between automotive mechanics and high-precision watchmaking.

Beautiful photo of the front grille of the 1948 Delahaye Type 175. Photo previously published on the luxury car sales website: BringaTrailer

We were immediately drawn to the streamlined aesthetics of the vehicles of the time, with a special mention for the 1948 Delahaye Type 175. The car’s steering wheel, both minimalist and refined, inspired the shape of the case and dial. We sought to capture this elegance while integrating aerodynamic elements that also recall aviation, creating a subtle balance between the two worlds.

Description: The iconic steering wheel of the 1948 Delahaye Type 175, whose fluid shape and sleek design have been incorporated into the design of the watch.

Design details and materials

The Streamliner watch is much more than a tribute to the automobile; it is a piece of exceptional craftsmanship, made with precious materials and high-end finishes.

Description: A 3D rendering of the Streamliner watch, revealing its automotive and aeronautical inspired design.

• Macassar Ebony and Mahogany Dial: The dial uses two precious woods, Macassar Ebony and Mahogany, to recreate the richness and contrast found in vintage car steering wheels. These woods are finely polished for a luxurious yet subtle finish.
• Solid Silver Case: The case is crafted from silver, a material chosen for its timeless shine and durability. Its smooth finish is reminiscent of the elegant curves of classic cars.
• ETA 6498 mechanical movement: At the heart of the watch beats an ETA 6498 mechanical movement, renowned for its reliability and precision. The “Côtes de Genève” decoration on the bridges adds a luxurious watchmaking touch, accentuating the attention to mechanical details.
• 56 mm diameter: With a diameter of 56 mm, the watch asserts its imposing character, offering a strong presence on the wrist, like a true centerpiece.

A long-term job

The design process for the "Streamliner" watch lasted 18 months, a period during which every detail was meticulously studied and refined. From the selection of wood species to the polishing of the silver, to the assembly of the movement, each step was carried out with the greatest care to guarantee a unique piece that lived up to the customer's expectations.

Conclusion

The "Streamliner" watch perfectly embodies the alliance between jewelry craftsmanship and watchmaking engineering. It stands out with its design inspired by vintage cars from the 1920s to 1940s, while incorporating exceptional materials and finishes. More than just an accessory, this personalized watch is a testament to ALB's expertise and its owner's passion for exceptional creations.