Swatch introduces a new collection “1983” – a contemporary interpretation of an iconic watch design, using bio-sourced materials and innovative technologies: Born in 1983. Made in 2020. New models are added to the Originals Collection – Gents and New Gents line, as the 1983 BIO-RELOADED. Here is a run through of the 6 new models in Gents lineup made with bio-sourced materials.
Press Release (comments in italics)
Two versions are introduced to the Gents and New Gents line, a part of the original family of Swatch watches. The Gents is from the first collection, case diameter 34mm. The 1983 collection (BIO-RELOADED) is the reinterpretation of the designs in 1983, and almost exact copies, but in new materials. These are the watches discussed here.
And the New Gents was first launched in 2010, with a case diameter of 41mm. The New Gents line, as we understand it, comprise of 5 more new watches, which are inspired by the Swatch watches of the 1980s.
Swatch “1983” BIO-RELOADED
This marks the first time a watchmaker has succeeded in replacing all conventional by bio-sourced materials in a series production environment.
Swatch has always had its finger on the pulse – since the brand’s founding in 1983. The enfant terrible of Swiss watchmaking is now introducing its latest innovation: a collection of timepieces cased in materials sourced from nature.
This marks the first time a watchmaker has succeeded in replacing all conventional by bio-sourced materials in a series production environment. Premiering in a collection that brings the iconic design of the first Swatch models to the present day, the brand is off to its next chapter : BIORELOADED!
Innovation has always been the drive defining the brand’s personality. The “1983” collection continues this tradition with two newly introduced bio-sourced materials extracted from the seeds of the castor plant. All components naturally meet the high Swiss Made quality requirements that Swatch places on its products.
Literally sealing the deal, the new packaging sets a new standard as well. Made of paperfoam, the material consists of an innovative mix based on potato and tapioca starch.
As a result, the packaging produced with the injection molding process is fully biodegradable and can be recycled with paper waste or even composted right at home.
A milestone as such deserves a special design to go with it: the “1983” collection takes its cues from the early days of the illustrious Swatch spirit. Six models offer reinterpretations of the first Swatch watches and feature bespoke typography created for the signage of the new Swatch Headquarters, leaving no doubt that the Swatch revolution has never stopped moving forwards.
A bit of history
With its premiere on March 1, 1983 Swatch quickly turned an entire industry on its head, launching 12 colorful watches made of only 51 individual parts, with modern materials, at a democratic price and high quality.
In 1995, Swatch literally joined forces with the sun, demonstrating its innovation skills in the area of alternative energies. Swatch Solar relied on Mother Nature for its energy – and could totally do without the usual batteries.
A watch that wears like a second skin: the extremely light Swatch SKIN has made time measurement into a sensual experience in 1997. The secret of the slimmest watch line in the world: newest technologies enabling a refined construction, weighing just a few grams.
In 2004, Swatch was once again ahead of its time with the launch of its “connected watch” Swatch Paparazzi. Through a wireless internet connection, its wearers had access to instant messaging, news, or weather services at any time.
In 2013, the SISTEM51 presented the first mechanical movement ever made whose assembly is fully automated – a true sensation in the industry. The automatic watch is made of only 51 components – as the original Swatch watches – which are held together by a single screw.
In September 2020, Swatch will add a further highlight to its colorful brand history, replacing all conventional by bio-sourced materials and premiering in a collection that brings the iconic design of the first Swatch models to the present day. Off to the next chapter: BIORELOADED!
