Founded in 1998, the Riva Historical Society is a Milan-based association
focusing on the preservation and restoration of classic Riva boats. Co-founded by Piero Mario Gibelini and Carlo Riva, this non-profit organisation was the inspiration behind the new limited-edition Runabout timepiece launched by Frederique Constant.
The Riva boats are handcrafted wooden powerboats designed to take one on an adventure of the Italian dolce vita. The two new 42mm automatic models – in stainless steel and rose gold plated case options – come with a navy blue dial featuring the brand's classic hobnail pattern with a central guilloche.
Both the models are equipped with an FC-303 automatic caliber – a 26 jewel Swiss-made caliber beating at 28,800 times per hour with a 38-hour power reserve. The movement is further protected with a 10 meter water-resistant case, making it the perfect watch for boating. The wearer gets a good view of the automatic mechanism via the see-through caseback.
The Runabout models are limited to 2888 pieces each and come in a special limited-edition box including a miniature wooden replica of the Riva boat.