Inventing top-tier luggages comes as a natural trait to RIMOWA, whose seamless meld of form and practicality continues to reimagine the art of mobility. With a foundation in 1898, the premium luggage purveyor flaunts the rarity of being one of the few brands that has stood over three centuries, emphasising its influence in the métier. Now, as an ode to its legacy, RIMOWA unveiled its newest release, an outcome of seeking inspiration within its own archives: the two style Hammerschlag collection.
The German term for ‘hammer hit’, Hammerschlag alludes to the method employed by RIMOWA artisans to forge distinctive textured patterns on the aluminium surface of the bags. These meticulously crafted dimples capture and reflect light in a manner that matte-finished surfaces do not, making the textured Hammerschlag bags much-loved paraphernalia in their time.
Reprising its charm and uniqueness, the archival marvel enters the scene again in two fresh variants – an 18L hand-carry case and a 31L cabin suitcase. The new collection honours every detail of its antique predecessor, featuring a reiteration of the 1966 RIMOWA case handle in a cognac hue and a curved luggage tag embossed with ‘1898’ in the same colour.
In its bid to accent its rich heritage, RIMOWA does not however compromise on its contemporary elegance, ensuring that the modernity shines through. The interior of the two bags is fabricated from first-rate nylon, showcasing a blend of olive twill and a brown shades – curved leather compartments come neatly placed on the dividers while two hooks further enhance the classic front of the aluminium luggages. The scaly aluminium frames of the RIMOWA Cabin Hammerschlag and the RIMOWA Hand-Carry Case Hammerschlag indicate the Maison’s skilled craftmanship and luxe imbued into the luggages.
The world of music plays muse for the celebration of this launch, with parallels drawn between the cases’ special motif and the cadenced movements that arise as piano keys produce sound. Renowned German musician and composer Nils Frahm breathes life into the campaign through an enchanting rendition of his composition, Hammers. Fluidly highlighting the piano hammers, RIMOWA’s campaign contrasts the Maison’s artisanal flair and the musical realm, unveiling common complexities when pursuing subtlety.
Exclusivity shrouds the brand new collection that is set to be released in numbered pieces etched on a patch within the bags. The limited-quantity array comprises 1898 pieces of RIMOWA Cabin Hammerschlag suitcases and 966 pieces of RIMOWA Hand-Carry Cases Hammerschlag.
The quintessential image of RIMOWA’s enduring heritage and dedication to trialling new horizons in its craft, the Hammerschlag collection guarantees the finest of travel experiences.
From March 28th, 2024, the Hammerschlag limited-edition capsule will be available online and at select RIMOWA stores worldwide.
Images by RIMOWA.