Architectural Cases

AMIDA is introducing its Digitrend NASA Tribute watch, an horological creation that celebrates the legacy of space exploration, specifically drawing inspiration from the iconic Space Shuttle program. This unique timepiece integrates design elements reminiscent of the ceramic thermal protection tiles crucial for the Shuttle's safe re-entry. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the watch features advanced mechanical components, including a distinctive jumping hour display, and pays homage to NASA's historical "worm" logo. This blend of historical tribute and contemporary watchmaking technology positions the Digitrend NASA Tribute as a significant release for enthusiasts of both aerospace and horology.

The watch's design embodies a deep respect for the technological marvels of the Space Shuttle, translating its robust and heat-resistant exterior into a sophisticated wearable art piece. The meticulous attention to detail extends to the watch's movement and display, offering both precision and a nod to classic timekeeping mechanisms while embracing innovative features. The planned release in May 2026 is highly anticipated, marking a new chapter in the intersection of space history and luxury accessories.

Aerospace Heritage Meets Horological Innovation

AMIDA's Digitrend NASA Tribute watch is a testament to the seamless integration of aerospace history and cutting-edge watchmaking. The timepiece's most striking feature is its ceramic shell, directly inspired by the thermal protection tiles that shielded NASA's Space Shuttles during their perilous re-entry into Earth's atmosphere. These tiles were critical for absorbing extreme heat, a function now symbolically represented in the watch's durable and visually distinctive casing. The design meticulously captures the multi-paneled aesthetic of the shuttle's exterior, with each segment of the watch's face reflecting light in a manner akin to the original tiles. Crafted from a metallic monobloc and finished with a black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating, the case ensures both resilience and a sleek, contemporary look, honoring the pioneering spirit of NASA's Space Transportation System, which operated from 1981 to 2011.

The tribute extends beyond the exterior, with the watch incorporating the famous NASA worm logotype on its dial. This typographic logo, created in 1975, was synonymous with NASA's operations during the Space Shuttle era and has seen a resurgence in popularity after being officially reinstated in 2020. This thoughtful inclusion connects the watch directly to a significant period of space exploration. The strap further reinforces this connection, crafted from materials that echo the design and texture of astronaut space suits, secured with a practical hook-and-loop closure. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the Digitrend NASA Tribute watch is not merely a timekeeping device but a wearable artifact that tells a story of human ingenuity and spacefaring achievement, offering a unique blend of historical reverence and modern horological artistry.

The Digitrend's Unique Time Display and Craftsmanship

The AMIDA Digitrend NASA Tribute watch distinguishes itself not only through its exterior but also with its innovative approach to time display. At the heart of its dial is a jumping hour disc, a classic feature of the original Digitrend watches, made visible through a sapphire crystal prism. This mechanical marvel presents the hour numeral in a distinct window, advancing precisely with a single, instantaneous jump at the top of each hour. This mechanism is powered by a sophisticated internal system comprising nine interconnected components, designed to accumulate and release energy with remarkable precision, ensuring the crisp and dynamic hour change. The base movement, a Soprod Newton P092 automatic caliber, further enhances the watch's functionality, winding itself through the natural motion of the wearer's wrist, thus combining traditional watchmaking craftsmanship with modern automatic technology.

Scheduled for a much-anticipated launch in May 2026, this timepiece embodies a fusion of historical inspiration and mechanical excellence. The commitment of the Swiss watchmaker AMIDA to meticulously recreate and innovate upon historical designs is evident in every detail of the Digitrend NASA Tribute. The watch's strap, crafted from a combination of leather and a specialized fabric reminiscent of space suit materials, is not just a functional element but a direct homage to the tactile and practical aspects of space exploration gear. This thoughtful design choice, coupled with the distinctive jumping hour mechanism and the robust DLC-coated case, positions the AMIDA Digitrend NASA Tribute watch as a collector's item that beautifully marries the adventurous spirit of space travel with the refined artistry of haute horolog

During Milan Design Week 2026, Designboom's "ROOM FOR DREAMS" will take over the ME Milan Il Duca, transforming the Aldo Rossi-designed hotel into a vibrant ecosystem of innovative ideas. This multi-layered event aims to explore the transformative power of dreams as catalysts for social and cultural change, bringing together architects, designers, cultural institutions, and leading brands. Each curated intervention will reinterpret notions of dreaming, imagination, and future potential, turning the hotel's public areas into a dynamic canvas of creativity.

Far more than a typical exhibition, "ROOM FOR DREAMS" is envisioned as a living declaration of hopeful idealism, artistic bravery, and imaginative prowess. The experience will seamlessly integrate expansive installations, narrative cinematography, engaging live discussions, and ritualistic encounters. Highlights include an immersive setup by SolidNature and AMO/OMA's Samir Bantal, a dedicated "Cinema of Dreams" by Paf atelier, and a live dialogue with acclaimed designer Philippe Starck. These varied elements are set to unfold from April 20 to 26, 2026, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

The ME Milan Il Duca, nestled in the vibrant Piazza della Repubblica, will embody a transitional state—a space where fresh perspectives can flourish. "ROOM FOR DREAMS" invites visitors on a journey through various hotel zones, from its serene outdoor garden to the bustling lobby and the subterranean meeting rooms. Designboom, alongside a diverse group of collaborators, will imbue each space with a distinct phase of dreaming. This journey, oscillating between collective aspirations and personal introspection, will blur the lines between design and emotion, presenting a tangible vision for a better future.

SolidNature and AMO/OMA's Samir Bantal will present a monumental installation in the hotel's open-air garden, utilizing stone as a medium for speculative thought. This project delves into how material selections can inspire more optimistic futures, grounding idealistic concepts in tangible materials and asserting that a better world starts with the foundational elements we choose to build it from.

In the hotel's lower level, Paf atelier, a Paris-based studio responsible for the entire "ROOM FOR DREAMS" set design, will unveil the "Cinema of Dreams." This cinematic 'time capsule' is designed as a suspended sanctuary, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and find inspiration amidst the urban bustle. Through a curated daily film program, the cinema will explore themes of imagination, optimism, and emerging possibilities.

The hotel lobby will serve as the social heart of "ROOM FOR DREAMS," hosting a series of live talks, interviews, and informal gatherings. The week-long program will commence on April 20th with a highly anticipated live discussion featuring Philippe Starck, a renowned visionary in the design world, starting at 3:00 PM.

Also located in the lobby, Ressence will challenge conventional perceptions of time with an installation showcasing their horological masterpieces. This display will feature notable watches, unique pieces, and rarely seen components, including collaborations with industrial designer Marc Newson and artist Terumasa Ikeda, as well as a major new release from Watches and Wonders Geneva. Additionally, Ressence will present 'Now is Better,' a film by graphic designer Stefan Sagmeister, in the "Cinema of Dreams."

La Marzocco's Accademia del Caffè Espresso, a center dedicated to coffee research and education, will redefine daily rituals with "Coffee PortrAIts." This experimental format merges technology and traditional craftsmanship, demonstrating how they can complement rather than compete. Each day, a different guest roaster will offer limited servings from a mobile coffee cart, creating a living, multi-sensory exhibition.

Technology will play a dual role as both a tool and a subject within the project. OPPO is partnering with Designboom to produce 'Seeing Further,' a short film entirely captured on its latest flagship device, the Find X9 Ultra, and screened as part of the event. Concurrently, INDX|GLOBAL will host a live podcast series within "ROOM FOR DREAMS," featuring global voices from architecture and design to explore creative thinking as a catalyst for transformation.

"ROOM FOR DREAMS" represents a unique convergence of design, art, and technology, promising to deliver an engaging and thought-provoking experience at Milan Design Week 2026. The event’s innovative approach to exploring imagination and future possibilities through diverse installations, cinematic narratives, and interactive discussions positions it as a significant highlight of the design calendar.