It's always fascinating to see how seconde/seconde/ reimagines popular watches.
With numerous creative projects crafted by Romaric Andre in collaboration with various brands, one might wonder - will he ever run out of ideas? So far, this isn't an issue. On the contrary, the quality of releases only increases over time. The latest testament to this is the original interpretation of the Echo/Neutra Rivanera model - the popular elegant watches from the Italian brand. The main idea is simple: when Rivanera meets seconde/seconde/, the echo is neutralized.
Concept of the Limited Edition Rivanera + seconde/seconde/ from Echo/Neutra
My first glance at the new limited edition Rivanera + seconde/seconde/ instantly won me over. Initially, it was just a familiar case with a new blue dial adorned with an elegant "clou de Paris" pattern. But as I delved into the concept behind the design, my admiration for this playful interpretation of classic watches only grew. Andre's main idea was simple: "To make the watch iconic, I made it anechoic."
The phrase "anechoic watch" sounds mysterious to the uninitiated. An anechoic chamber is a room that absorbs reflections and completely eliminates echo. The idea of eliminating echo became the leitmotif for this new release. Of course, it's a play on the brand name, which is immediately noticeable in the design. But there's more to it than just a pun.
Anechoic chambers are used for precise testing of microphones, speakers, and antennas without distortions caused by reflections. The walls of such chambers are covered with wedge-shaped foam, which became a central visual element of the dial. What at first glance seems like a traditional "clou de Paris" pattern actually tells a light and effortless story, organically embodied in the design.
Main Features of the Limited Edition Rivanera + seconde/seconde/ from Echo/Neutra
The foundation for this collaboration is the first version of the popular classic Echo/Neutra watches. For many team members at Onewatch, the updated modern take on classic design became one of the main events of 2024. I was fortunate enough to test the first two models of Rivanera and add the gray dial version to my collection. Although I don't wear it often to keep it in pristine condition, these watches are among my favorites for special occasions, which only strengthens my emotional connection with them.
Therefore, I always eagerly anticipate Rivanera's new releases. When a press release about the collaboration with seconde/seconde/ arrived in my inbox, I was very intrigued by what they had come up with. The standard Rivanera, with a Grade 5 titanium case measuring 27 × 40 × 5.9 mm, served as the base. Retaining the sandblasted finish and polished bevels, the lightweight case has not lost its expressiveness. Every time, I am impressed by the visual appeal of this unique case.
Bright Blue Dial - Embodiment of the Concept
The main novelty is the new dial. It is rendered in a rich blue color, and the "clou de Paris" pattern, inspired by the foam of anechoic chambers, adds depth and detail to the design. At the "12 o'clock" position is the Echo/Neutra logo. An interesting accent is the light blue line crossing out the word "echo," symbolizing the damping properties of the foam that inspired the design.
At "6 o'clock" is a small seconds sub-dial, crafted as a polished dark gray ring with a 60-second scale. Hovering above is a small hand, stylistically matching the central hour and minute hands.
All three hands harmonize with the polished bevels of the case, adding sparkle and contrast against the blue dial. As a result, the new dial gives the watch a completely different appearance compared to standard models. The set includes two straps: a blue calf leather strap embossed to resemble alligator and a gray suede strap, both with a signature Grade 5 titanium buckle. Both straps perfectly complement the design and allow changing the watch's style.
Technical Specifications and Impressions of the Limited Edition Rivanera + seconde/seconde/
The watch is equipped with the same ETA/Peseux 7001 caliber as my Rivanera. This hand-wound movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, contains 17 jewels, and provides a power reserve of up to 42 hours. It is the perfect choice for maintaining the thinness of the case and wearing comfort.
From personal experience, I can say that the Rivanera wears like a dream. Weighing only 28 grams thanks to the titanium case, it is incredibly thin and proportionate, fitting well on wrists of different sizes. I am confident that all new owners among the 50 released pieces of the Rivanera + seconde/seconde/ will derive immense pleasure from these watches.
Conclusion and Availability of the Limited Edition Echo/Neutra Rivanera + seconde/seconde/
The limited edition is available on the official Echo/Neutra website for €1,490 / US$1,810. If you plan to add it to your collection, I advise not to delay the purchase, as this original interpretation of the Rivanera is sure to sell out quickly. It combines a clever and amusing concept with excellent execution, revealing a new facet of the Rivanera that I am very fond of. And now I know exactly which watch I'll wear this weekend.