Autoklika: Italian design, Czech craftsmanship, automotive soul

The combination of the creative vision of Italian designer David Bodin and the Czech family manufactory M&T has given rise to Autoklika – a new model of fittings that combines the playfulness of Southern aesthetics with the precision of Czech craftsmanship. "Handles are a key point of contact between people and the surrounding world. I wanted to create one that connects ergonomics with innovative solutions, similar to cars, where extraordinary attention is paid to the development of handles and their opening," explains the designer. The result is an object whose lines reference famous Italian cars. It appears lightly retro while simultaneously being futuristic – and above all, it fits perfectly in the hand. The design of Autoklika also reflects elements of streamline moderne style from the late 1930s and 1940s in America.

During development, both sides encountered technological challenges and differing perceptions of ergonomics and proportions between Italian and Central European cultures. Initially, the designer envisioned a handle operated by pulling towards oneself, similar to cars. Ultimately, however, he chose the classic rotary movement, which in this unconventional design can still surprise.

Although the final model appears very simple externally, it hides a sophisticated technical solution - an integrated rosette and the lock's return spring directly in the body of the handle, which keeps it visually clean, without visible structural components. This philosophy of combining solid and movable elements into one visual whole is typical for automotive handles. "The model masterfully captures the original Italian autoklika and subtly transfers its mass onto interior doors, which are significantly larger," adds Roman Ulich from M&T.

Autoklika is made from solid brass, a material that excels in high strength and durability. With a selection of a total of seventeen surface finishes and color shades, it can be perfectly tailored to specific interiors. The collection also allows for the unification of fittings across the entire project – there is an option for both classic and fully glass doors as well as for windows.

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