GRAFF stealth faucet

Certain high-end military aircraft use a combination of technology and design “to reduce their visibility in the infrared, visual, audio, and radio frequency (RF) spectrum” making it difficult to “detect, track and attack” them (Source).

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But wait … what do modern bathroom fixtures have to do with all of this?

GRAFF stealth angular faucet
GRAFF stealth bathroom faucet

Curiously, the same strategies that make a stealth bomber difficult to detect tend to make a similarly-shaped faucet stand out all the more. The flat triangular sides (called facets on the plane versions) are modeled to help planes reduce their radar signature and achieve near-invisibility.

GRAFF stealth jet inspiration for bathroom fixtures

One such resulting “purely stealthy” form is humorously known as the “Hopeless Diamond” for its inability to remain naturally aloft. These same geometrical properties make a stainless steel fixture like this one from Graff reflect light and catch the eye.

GRAFF stealth faucet inspiration

A little like their inspirational predecessors, these models are pricey and not particularly efficient. Stealth airplanes are expensive to maintain, still visible when deploying weapons and to certain anti-stealth detection systems. They also have an awkward and non-aerodynamic shape that requires constant computerized corrections just to keep it in the air.

Likewise, this faucet … well, its complexity speaks for itself. Perhaps at least the surfaces are easy to clean since they are flat? Honestly, they’re pretty cool. Why do all fixtures have to look alike? It’s nice to see a creative design once in a while, even if the inspiration behind it seems a little convoluted.

GRAFF stealth modern bathroom faucet

“GRAFF‘s proprietary Steelnox finish protects bathroom fixtures from common wear-and-tear issues, such as chipping, corrosion and daily fingerprints. Like its name suggests, Steelnox is hardy, strong and durable in quality. The processing of a patented powder coating is responsible for the finishes’ enhanced performance capabilities, while its satin nickel finish creates visual interest. GRAFF‘s Stealth Lavatory Faucet is available in Steelnox satin nickel, as well as polished chrome. Stealth features an abstract shape based upon a conglomeration of geometric angles and planes. The irregular forms captured by the faucet are similar to that of a Cubist painting, suggesting that there is more than meets the eye with this design.”

About GRAFF:

“Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, with locations throughout Europe, GRAFF is globally recognized for its trend-setting products and unique vision. Supported since 1922 by extensive plumbing and hardware manufacturing experience, GRAFF has positioned itself at the forefront of design creating designer-based collections for the luxury market.”

“Utilizing the latest manufacturing technology and thanks to a tradition of old-world craftsmanship, GRAFF’s commitment to creating cutting-edge, premium-quality collections is evident in each and every product. “