Each year on Attire Club, we publish a trend forecast, where we feature what we believe will be the main trends in fashion and culture at large in terms of topics and visuals. In the trend report for 2018, which we published on December 16 2017, we featured space as the main trend.
Our report said: “Everything related to space will be a big trend in 2018, we believe. We’re expecting to see a lot of astronaut-inspired looks, galaxy prints and aliens. Moreover, planets, asteroids and other celestial elements will be some of the biggest hits in 2018. The Jetsons might be a source of inspiration too.”
Recently, the most important luxury watches and jewelry fair, Baselworld, took place in the Swiss town of Basel.
There were many space-themed pieces on display. Here are just a few of them, which make a good job at exemplifying the trend.
Nebula by Arnold & Son
This ladies’ watch by Arnold & Son has a rather abstract approach to the concept of space and galaxies. It definitely has a great rhythm that brings movement to the design and the alternation of gold and gray spaces give a sense of the mystery represented by a nebula. The small accents add a sparkle effect that makes the watch have an organic feel and an appeal that is not technical in nature and that does not seem highly material, but rather ephemeral. Capturing the ephemeral in a watch is definitely something that is hard to do and thus, the brand’s endeavor is impressive.
Astronomia Tourbillon Black Ceramic Black & Red Movement by Jacob & Co.
The Astronomia Tourbillon Black Ceramic Black & Red Movement by Jacob & Co. is a watch that has created a lot of buzz both online and offline. It is such a superb piece because it resembles a physical sensation in a dream state. It gives one the sense of floating, of movement and of depth, but in a way that is dark and emotional; however, at the same time, the empty space balance this darkness out and assure the wearer that he is still in control.
Grande Seconde Moon Black Enamel by Jaquet Droz
A world where artists and scientist meet seems to be the story behind the Grande Seconde Moon Black Enamel by Jaquet Droz. This exquisite piece has drawn our attention with its fine lines and balanced proportions. The whole design has a certain rhythm to it, which mimics the rotation of the moon and sky. Most notable is the beautiful moon design, which is both artistic and scientific at the same time.
Roswell 08 by Schwarz Etienne
The story of the Roswell UFOs is so strongly embedded in our minds that we didn’t even need to know the name of this watch by Schwarz Etienne to understand what it’s about. And this is where the mastership of Schwarz Etienne shows: the brand managed to create a piece which communicates a concept and a story through color and material in a way that is extremely non-represenational.
The Fifth Element by MB&F + L’Epée 1839
And, to top it all off, a very literal approach to space fantasy is the Fifth Element by MB&F and L’Epée 1839. This item is an intergalactic horological weather station that enables accurate weather forecasting even when the power goes down. It features four (UFO) elements: clock, barometer, hygrometer, and thermometer combine in a mother ship (with Ross, the alien pilot). It really is a remarkable piece that is both mysterious and an open door to a fictional world, where the stories are endless.
Many trends that one can see in fashion extend to all sectors of culture, including films, art and even politics. Space is a big trend and might even extend to next year, which means that we might see many more watches and other pieces with space-related designs in the future. Only time will tell.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
Further reading:
An overview of Baselworld 2018
We’ll meet you at Baselworld 2018!
Trend forecast: Fashion Weeks of 2018
P.S. We want to hear from you! Which of these watches is your favorite? Why? Do you like space? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via e-mail or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!