For the Swiss brand Raymond Weil, which has built its reputation over the past fifty years on accessible Swiss watchmaking, there is one category of watches the company has long avoided.
While competitors have been actively launching and relaunching sports watches with integrated bracelets in various forms, sizes, and price segments over the past decade, Raymond Weil stayed on the sidelines. However, in honor of its 50th anniversary, the brand has finally changed this situation. The A.R.T. collection is Raymond Weil's first with an integrated bracelet - a novelty that could become one of the most significant launches in recent years.
Features of the A.R.T. Collection by Raymond Weil
The problem for Raymond Weil is that the brand was not the first to enter the integrated bracelet market. This segment is currently one of the most competitive in watchmaking: from budget models to exclusive watches with six-figure prices, the market is fully saturated. Instead of trying to radically change the formula, Raymond Weil focused on its strengths - producing Swiss watches with unexpectedly high quality at affordable prices.
The A.R.T. collection includes 14 models with automatic and quartz movements. The goal is to combine modern design, versatility for everyday wear, and the appeal of an integrated bracelet without deviating from the brand's traditional value concept.
Design and Technical Specifications
The collection is based on two case sizes. The flagship model is equipped with an automatic movement, has a diameter of 38 mm, and a thickness of only 9.95 mm, presented in five variations. The smaller version with a quartz movement, measuring 30 mm in diameter, expands the lineup with nine more models. The cases are made of stainless steel, two-tone steel with yellow PVD coating, full yellow gold with PVD, as well as rose gold with PVD. Both versions share a unified design with a clean, sculptural bezel and Raymond Weil's first integrated bracelet.
The look of the collection appears modern but without excessive adherence to fashion trends. Polished bevels, matte surfaces, and smooth lines of the case give the watch a more premium appearance than one might expect for the price. Despite the novelty of the collection, the A.R.T. design feels familiar and timeless, giving the watch confidence and maturity, as if they have long been part of the brand's catalog.
Dials and Legibility
The dials of the collection maintain a clean and restrained style. The central part features a sunburst finish, while the contrasting minute track is executed in azurage technique, separated by a recessed groove for depth and visual interest. Color options include metallic blue, graphite, and sage gray. Some 30 mm models feature mother-of-pearl dials, two-tone finishes, and diamond bezels, making them resemble jewelry pieces. All models have applied hour markers and faceted hands with Super-LumiNova coating for easy reading in low light conditions.
Movements and Reliability
The 38 mm models are equipped with a Swiss automatic movement with a power reserve of 41 hours, while the 30 mm collection uses a quartz caliber, resulting in a case thickness of only 7.5 mm. These technical solutions are not revolutionary, but this underscores Raymond Weil's concept - to create simple, reliable, and easy-to-use watches without excessive complexity and technical flourishes.
Integrated Bracelet - Key Element
No model with an integrated bracelet can be successful without a quality bracelet. In this aspect, Raymond Weil paid special attention to details. The new bracelet with H-shaped links features polished bevels and neatly chamfered central links, ensuring a smooth transition from the case to the bracelet. A significant advantage is the absence of the bulky and rough look typical of cheaper integrated bracelets. Whether the A.R.T. will remain a long-term part of the Raymond Weil collection remains to be seen, but for a brand celebrating its half-century anniversary, this is a logical and long-overdue addition.
Price and Availability of the Raymond Weil A.R.T. Collection
The Raymond Weil A.R.T. collection is already available at the brand's official dealers. Prices start at CHF 1,395 / €1,525 / £1,495 / US$1,525 for the 30 mm models and from CHF 1,795 / €1,995 / £1,895 / US$1,995 for the 38 mm versions.
Key Features of the A.R.T. Collection
- Brand: Raymond Weil
- Model: A.R.T. Collection
- Case Sizes: 30 mm (thickness 7.5 mm), 38 mm (thickness 9.95 mm)
- Case Material: Stainless steel, two-tone steel with yellow PVD, full yellow or rose gold with PVD
- Water Resistance: 100 meters
- Glass: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Dials: Blue, gray, black, charcoal gray, mother-of-pearl, sunburst finish
- Bracelet: Integrated, steel H-link, folding clasp
- Movements: Swiss automatic and quartz (for 30 mm)
- Power Reserve: 41 hours (automatic models)
- Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date
- Price: From CHF 1,395 (30 mm), from CHF 1,795 (38 mm)
- Availability: On sale
The Raymond Weil A.R.T. collection represents an important step for the brand, combining traditional Swiss watchmaking with modern design and the sought-after functionality of an integrated bracelet.