Speake Marin Introduces Ripples Karman Line at Watches and Wonders 2026
An ultra-thin, high-frequency timepiece inspired by the boundary between Earth and space
PRESS RELEASE | 745 WORDS | 5 MINUTE READ
Photo Courtesy: Speake Marin
SPEAKE MARIN INTRODUCES THE NEW RIPPLES KÁRMÁN LINE: THE INVISIBLE BOUNDARY THAT INSPIRES A NEW DIMENSION OF TIME
Speake Marin is expanding the Ripples collection. Originally launched in 2022 as the brand’s first fully stainless-steel line with a casual-chic style, the collection now welcomes the new Ripples Kármán Line. With this latest creation, the Geneva-based Maison is symbolically moving beyond the boundaries of traditional watchmaking to explore new aesthetics and techniques. Drawing inspiration from the Kármán Line, the invisible boundary between Earth’s atmosphere and outer space, this new model embodies the concept of transition: between earth and cosmos, matter and lightness. This ultra-thin timepiece is refined, technically flawless, and remarkably light on the wrist. With the Ripples Kármán Line, time does not weigh!
THE INSPIRATION: THE KÁRMÁN LINE
The Kármán Line is named after the Hungarian-American engineer and physicist Theodore von Kármán, who was renowned for his work in the fields of aeronautics and astronautics. Located 100 kilometres above sea level, it marks the conventional boundary between the regulated world of national sovereignty and the open, neutral and limitless realm of space. Speake Marin has translated this vision into a language of watchmaking that has always relied on subtle balances: between tradition and innovation; between mechanical precision and aesthetic appeal. The Ripples Kármán Line captures the very moment of transition when the deep blue of the sky gradually dissolves into the blackness of space. This is a gradual, almost imperceptible transition, a state of suspended equilibrium where matter seems to grow lighter, surfaces reflect light more intensely, and proportions become more harmonious, evoking the sensation of ascending towards infinity.
THE CASE: CONTEMPORARY DESIGN ENHANCED BY LIGHT
Like the Ripples Skeleton, the new Ripples Kármán Line is also crafted from 904L stainless steel. This high-quality alloy, chosen for its superior corrosion resistance compared to the more common 316L and for the exceptional brilliance it reveals when polished, enhances the iconic case and fully expresses the distinctive identity of the Ripples collection. Designed by Stéphane Lacroix, the “La City” shape harmoniously blends the two most emblematic shapes in classic watchmaking - circles and squares - to create a contemporary and harmonious configuration. The balanced lines and skilfully alternating polished and satin surfaces amplify the interplay of light. The case’s optimal dimensions (40.30 mm in diameter and just 6.30 mm thick) contribute significantly to its comfortable fit: the watch slips naturally under the cuff while maintaining an impressive aesthetic presence.
THE DIAL: BETWEEN BLUE AND INFINITY
The Ripples Kármán Line dial embodies the art of blending horological expertise with visual poetry. For the first time within the collection, the Ripples Kármán Line boasts a sapphire crystal dial, a highly complex technical and aesthetic choice that introduces a new dimension of transparency and depth, amplifying the perception of lightness. Its sapphire base reveals delicate Geneva stripes and a sunray texture, enhanced by a blue metallisation and rhodium-plated galvanic growth that highlights the ring framing the Maison’s signature small seconds counter, positioned at 1:30. This subdial, with its radiant soleil finish, is completed by applied rhodium-plated indices and a mirror-polished steel hand, lending the composition a precious and refined finishing touch.
THE MOVEMENT: A BLEND OF HIGH-FREQUENCY PRECISION AND MECHANICAL ARTISTRY
At the heart of the Ripples Kármán Line lies the new SMA06 automatic calibre, which was conceived and engineered entirely in-house at “Le Cercle des Horlogers” in La Chaux-de-Fonds. This movement is yet another testament to the Maison’s pursuit of technical excellence.
Ultra-thin (2.5 mm), 5 Hz, in-house calibre and micro-rotor
BRACELET AND STRAPS: REFINED ELEGANCE MEETS CONTEMPORARY TRENDS
In addition to the traditional polished-brushed 904L steel bracelet with a folding clasp and a quick extension system, the Ripples Kármán Line comes with two additional straps with titanium buckles to enhance its versatility
A WORK OF ART FOR DISCERNING COLLECTORS
With the Ripples Kármán Line, Speake Marin once again confirms its excellence in creating proprietary movements, meticulous finishes, and a distinctive, consistent aesthetic language. Every detail is designed to delight the most discerning collectors, who are looking for a timepiece that not only measures time, but also expresses a vision and becomes a true lifelong companion.
Availability
The Ripples Kármán Line by Speake Marin will be available at authorised retailers worldwide starting May 2026.
For further information, visit: https://speake-marin.com/