With the Mirror Force Resonance in 2016, Armin Strom introduced a complex timepiece employing a very rare mechanical design, the principle of resonance. Its genuine caliber with manual winding features two balance wheels with independent energy sources and gear trains that oscillate in opposite directions at the same time, thereby considerably improving the precision rate and reliability of the movement. The key to this ingenious system is the manufacture’s patented “Resonance Clutch Spring” that is designed to reliably transfer energy between both hairsprings and thus to quickly bring the balance wheels into resonance.
In the latest version of this exceptional timepiece, the brand offers some aesthetic and design updates, highlighting the beauty of the watch’s inner workings. From the outside, the case has been redesigned in more slender proportions (43mm x 11.55mm), with slimmer, more elegant lugs.
The raised sapphire glass box protecting the dial with off-center hour and minute indication reveals the top-notch finishings and decoration of the movement from multiple angles and has been redesigned for a more unobstructed, three-dimensional look.
Most notably, the two balance bridges on the left side have been open worked for more visual harmony between the two synchronized balanced wheels. The pusher at 2 o’clock allows the two running seconds indicators – which rotate in mirrored clockwise and counter-clockwise motions – to be reset to zero and visually track the state of resonance.
Turning the watch over is likewise a feast for the eyes and the extent of the movement’s redesign can be fully seen. Inspired by the golden age of precision marine chronometry, the engraved main plate outlines the specific characteristics of the Mirrored Force Resonance in raised letters. Highlighting the fact that the ingenuity of the Resonance is having two movements beating in sync with independent energy sources and gear trains, the symmetry of the movement is accentuated by the mirrored arrangement of open bridges and gears. This particular execution also showcases Armin Strom’s dedication to hand finishing while at the same time shining a light on the brand’s expertise in skeleton watches. The wider hand-polished chamfers on the bridges and countersinks and the mix of satin-brushed and mirror-polished surfaces also exude a superlative haute horlogerie quality.
Other mechanical features have been updated in addition to the architecture and re-engineered movement, such as the ratchet wheels and pawls that now take their inspiration from those found in pocket watches and provide a smoother tactile experience when winding.
The first edition of the Mirrored Force Resonance is limited to 25 pieces and distinguished by some exclusive details. Firstly, the two finger-style bridges between the ratchet wheel and barrels are crafted in white gold. Secondly, the opaline dial has been created in a warm “Black Gold” colour. Thirdly, it has a warranty of 10 years instead of 5 years.
The Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance is set to retail for $59,000.
To learn more, visit Armin Strom, here.
