Challenging Gravity: RIMOWA’s Aluminium Legacy

Motivated by the substance that propelled the aviation sector forward, RIMOWA embraced aluminum and has continued to progress ever since.

Makings of the RIMOWA Original bag. (RIMOWA)

When duralumin was initially found by German metallurgist Alfred Wilm in the early 1900s, its potential to revolutionize aviation was unforeseen. Indeed, no one could have anticipated it becoming the defining characteristic of a German brand for decades.

While it is usual for businesses to successfully assert ownership over a color, unique design, or motif, few can claim a material like RIMOWA has.

According to legend, in the 1930s, a fire entirely consumed a RIMOWA facility, leaving just the aluminum intact. This occurrence motivated second-generation owner Richard Morszeck to use aluminum as a substitute for future RIMOWA innovations, replacing the original hardwood designs. Morszeck had contemplated the notion in the 1920s, having developed the brand's inaugural aluminium trunk.

The existing RIMOWA manufacturing facility in Cologne, Germany. (SIMON MENGES)

Claiming an element as part of one's branding necessitates continual creativity to maintain the association. A brand may be recognized for a singular attribute (admittedly, RIMOWA transcends mere aluminium) although this does not necessitate repetitive actions.

Similar to the evolution of air travel, RIMOWA's aluminum products have also progressed. The original aluminum bags resembled trunks and lacked wheels. Prior to the widespread adoption of wheeled luggage in 1972, RIMOWA launched its inaugural Roller suitcase featuring detachable wheels in that same year. The brand ultimately consolidated its aluminium products into three series: the ultra-sleek Original, the Classic featuring leather handles, and the polycarbonate-based Hybrid, distinguished by aluminium accents.

The existing RIMOWA manufacturing facility in Cologne, Germany. (SIMON MENGES)

The brand's distinctive grooves were integrated into RIMOWA's design language in 1950. Inspired by the all-metal (duralumin) Junkers F 13 aircraft, a notable milestone in aviation, the grooves on each RIMOWA piece run parallel to its length. Although the grooved pattern continues to serve as a distinguishing feature for most of the brand's designs, it has explored alternative ornamental treatments for aluminum. The exclusive Hammerschlag series, for instance, was inspired by a 1966 Hand-Carry Case characterized by a “hammer hit” surface. The textured surface refracts light differently than its flatter predecessors, while simultaneously concealing visible nicks and imperfections from extended use.

RIMOWA has solidified its position in the luxury market with its unique style and unwavering commitment to innovation. It has evolved from a mere luggage company to a luxury mobility business, dedicated to crafting items for all forms of movement. The brand's utilization of aluminum transitioned from safeguarding travel essentials to preserving virtually any item of significance to an individual. Aluminium has been molded into particular forms, including vanity cases, an attaché designed exclusively for mahjong, and a watch case accommodating three clocks.

Aluminium's practical use have led to its conversion into various bags and accessories. The crossbody personal bags—available in crossbody and sling clutch variations—are recognized for their miniature resemblance to RIMOWA’s reliable suitcases, yet ingeniously feature distinctive locking mechanisms for enhanced usability. The firm has designed an aluminum cardholder that features an elegant swivel opening and offers protection against RFID and NFC technology.

RIMOWA continues to innovate with aluminum. In the final quarter of 2024, the brand introduced two new aluminum variants. The Original bag is the brand's inaugural unisex, multi-carry handbag, designed in the form of a diminutive suitcase that may be utilized as a top-handle, shoulder bag, or crossbody. The limited-edition Original Cabin Optical presents a novel interpretation of the aluminum suitcase, showcasing a captivating rendition of the grooved pattern.

RIMOWA's recent aluminium advancements: the Original Cabin Optical and the Original bag. (RIMOWA)

What is the future trajectory of RIMOWA? It has established its aluminium history and will persist in doing so. Similar to its lofty inspirations, the sky represents the ultimate boundary.