Protect the Talisman!

I usually don't start the day by defending other watch brands, but sometimes you just have to stand up for what is right! (Plus tips on how to grow as a creative)

Richard Mille, a world-renowned Swiss watch brand, just recently unveiled it's one of a kind RM S14 Talisman, a necklace/pendant style "watch." This thing is absolutely insane! With its totally unique tribal styling, interesting material choices, and form factor, this thing looks like it's straight out of Wakanda and would be right at home on the Black Panther's or Shuri's neck.

What's taken me aback, however, is the sheer amount of unfound hate that this piece-unique watch has garnered. Cruising through Instagram comments on RM's posts reveal a slew of closed-minded nitwits spewing uncultured opinions on the clock. While I agree that a necklace isn't the most ideal way to check the time, nor is it the most optimal location for a counterweight wound mechanical clock, (and I also recognize that 100% of these commenters don't buy expensive watches, especially Richard Mille's, nor do they work in creative fields)... the pendant still is an extraordinary example of creative design.

Remember, good design is affective design. (Affective meaning it creates certain emotions, or feelings) The Talisman immediately evokes tribal vibes, whether it's Native American or African cultures, and its bold look immediately sets itself apart from 99.9% of watches out there. This makes it even more unique, actually, as the watch industry is dominated by Western design, and by tradition, frequently locking it into a certain mindset or form. By expanding into cultures that are under-represented in the watch world, it stands out even more from its peers. Creativity is the act of combining different ideas with your point of view to create something new. By expanding outside the typical watch culture, the Talisman is an exceptional standout in creativity.

Why is this important?

The RM S14 Talisman has been created as a one-off piece of jewelry to be auctioned at the Only Watch charity auction, which raises funds for neuromuscular disease treatment research. Therefore, its purpose is to raise as much money as possible.

How do you do this?

The promise of a piece-unique watch or jewelry is that you will have the only one of it in existence-- you will be the stand-out in the sea of sameness. How do you stand out, even among other piece-unique items even more? How do you stand out to wealthy buyers at a charity auction? You have to be creative, and you have to be very bold. This pendant is an extremely bold statement, perfect for its intended purpose.

So, to all the naysayers in the comments dissing on the Talisman's creativity: get more creative. The Talisman performs it's intended function amazingly well. Taking a creative direction that few can, in an effort to stand out as much as possible and raise a shit ton of money in the process.