LIP Rudi Meyer Galaxie Watch (c. 1970's)

THE GALAXIE WATCH BY RUDI MEYER: BORN IN A TURBULENT TIME

Recruited among a group of 7 other famous designers in the mid 1970’s, a young graphic designer named Rudi Meyer was at the helm of this influential collection of watches. These designers were hired in an effort to revive the LIP brand in the midst of a of what was the early days of the quartz crisis. What followed at the LIP factory was a series of dramatic strikes, and violent worker takeovers that captured the attention of a nation (more on that below).

Launched in 1975 in the midst of this pivitol time, the Galaxie watches were a true masterpiece of space-age design, using novel materials and unique finishes. The Galaxie lineup included 9 unique watch designs, spanning across two main case types. The first case shape was made of a spherical-shaped aluminium.

The 2nd design was made of a more angular shaped brass case with a chrome finish. By this time, Brass turning was a practice mastered by LIP for nearly a century. 

The chrome finish of these watches are unlike anything the industry had seen at this time. Through a propriety treatment, LIP managed to achieve a matted, moon-like, yet smooth-to-the-touch finish on the cases. 

AN UPRISING
"It is possible: we make them, we sell them, we pay ourselves!"

What's truly interesting about this watch are the circumstances in which it was born. Beginning in the early 1970’s (then controlled by Fred Lippman, the bold 4th generation descendant of Lip’s founder) the company was experiencing financial trouble, largely due to global competition and a shifting market. This would set the stage for a series of labour disputes, and worker takeovers spanning the next decade.

After a period of employee control in 1973, an advertising executive and member of the Unified Socialist Party (PSU) named Claude Neuschwander agreed to become the factory's manager. It was during his tenure that the 7 designers (mentioned above) were brought on to revitalize LIP, and stabilize its position within the market. This is when the Galaxie watch first made its appearance!

But Neuschwander’s effort was short-lived. After further financial trouble, LIP filed for bankruptcy in 1976, tensions between management and factory staff once again reached a breaking point, and the company was forced t liquidate its assets. The loyal workers, not willing to simply walk away, revolted and occupied the factory once again with almost military-style tactics. 

Doors were welded shut, and barbed wire was used to impede a possible forced evacuation, as had happened in the previous revolt. Eventually, the workers formed a cooperative dubbed "Les Industries de Palente" (Palente's Industries), holding onto the LIP name for the time being. They effectively continued to hold control over the LIP factory in their on-going experiment in "self-management”.

The company and its trademark continued to change hands through the late 70's and 80's. Some watches assembled during this time were done so with left over parts seized during the worker uprisings, and were stamped with the name of the cooperative "Les Industries de Palente", or "Les Ateliers de Palente" as seen on the watch we are offering today.  

What is special about the Rudi Meyer Galaxie watch, and others from the 7 designers of this period?

Well, it provides a window, not only into a pivotal chapter of LIP's fascinating history, but also into a broader story of French class tensions, and a violent worker struggle.

What took place at the LIP factories throughout the 1970’s remains an important symbol of workers' self-management and resistance in the face of the dominant economic system of its time.

And THIS watch, designed by prolific graphic designer Rudi Meyer, was born in the midst of this chaos. All that history packed into one watch? UNBELIEVABLE!

VALUE PROPOSITION

For watch enthusiasts and collectors of unique timepieces, the LIP Galaxie watch designed by Rudi Meyer is a special timepiece. Its unique and innovative design, coupled with its history as a pioneering watch brand, make it a highly sought-after piece. The Galaxie's design is timeless and has proven to be a design icon, inspiring watch designs for decades to come.

This particular LIP Galaxie watch is not just any vintage watch. It is a piece of history and a true work of art. Its excellent condition makes it an exceptional find for collectors and enthusiasts alike. This watch is a statement piece that will enhance any watch collection, and its value will only appreciate over time. Don't miss your chance to own this iconic timepiece and add it to your collection today!

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CONDITION REPORT

This particular LIP Rudi Meyer Galaxie watch is in excellent condition, with essentially no signs of wear, aside from a very minor nick on the case's edge above the crown, and a few light scratches of the case-back. Service history is unknown, but the watch has been well-maintained and is running as it should. The case is unpolished, preserving its original sharp lines and the truly unique matte finish described above. The dial is in pristine condition, with no signs of discolouration or fading. The crystal is in good condition with one or two extremely light scratches.

At this time the clasp on the bracelet is missing the correct sized spring bar, but we intend on fixing this with our watchmaker before the watch ships out. 

SPECIFICATIONS 

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