Unveiling the Armin Strom Gravity Equal Force Ultimate Sapphire Salmon: A Vibrant Pulse of Innovation
A Watch That Dares to Be Different
The Armin Strom Gravity Equal Force series takes a bold step forward with the Ultimate Sapphire Salmon, a timepiece that blends technical brilliance with artisanal charm. This latest addition to the celebrated collection showcases the brand's unique approach to color and transparency, offering a fresh perspective on modern horology.
The Story Behind the Brand
Independent Swiss watchmaker Armin Strom, founded in 1967 and revitalized in 2009 by Serge Michel and master watchmaker Claude Greisler, has a unique philosophy. Based in Biel/Bienne, the brand combines traditional hand-finishing techniques with cutting-edge technical ideas. Their System 78 collection, named after the birth year of its founders, embodies the brand's commitment to innovative excellence, making it accessible to collectors who appreciate independent horology.
A Revolutionary Movement
The Gravity Equal Force (GEF) made its debut in 2019, marking a significant milestone in contemporary watchmaking. It was the world's first automatic watch with a stop-work declutch mechanism integrated into the mainspring barrel, a groundbreaking innovation that ensures consistent torque and accurate timekeeping throughout its power reserve. Beyond its mechanical prowess, the GEF introduced a distinctive aesthetic, featuring an off-centered sapphire sub-dial that reveals the movement's intricate components, including the barrel, gear train, and micro-rotor, arranged in a pocket watch-inspired layout.
Evolution Through Limited Editions
Since its launch, the GEF has evolved through a series of limited editions that celebrate color, craftsmanship, and collaboration. From the traditional German silver tones of the MONOCHROME x Armin Strom Gravity Equal Force Maillechort to the vibrant palettes of the Ultimate Sapphire Blue, Purple, and Rose Gold editions, each piece has been a masterpiece in its own right. Now, the Gravity Equal Force Ultimate Sapphire Salmon adds a touch of warmth and luxury to this exceptional collection.
Unveiling the Ultimate Sapphire Salmon
The Gravity Equal Force Ultimate Sapphire Salmon retains the familiar 41mm stainless steel case, with a height of 12.65mm, and the brand's signature lip at 6 o'clock. The alternating polished and brushed finishes enhance its sleek lines, while anti-reflective sapphire crystals on both sides offer an unobstructed view of the intricate calibre. The star of this timepiece is undoubtedly the salmon-colored PVD mainplate, adorned with a delicate hand-guilloché barley grain pattern crafted by the renowned Kari Voutilainen.
A Mechanical Landscape
The watch's architecture is a sight to behold, with the micro-rotor positioned at one o'clock, the equal-force barrel at five, and the gear train connecting them. The grey-toned sapphire time dial, featuring a small seconds display, showcases rhodium-plated hands with Super-LumiNova filling for enhanced legibility. This mechanical landscape is a testament to the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The Heart of the Watch: Armin Strom Calibre ASB19
The mechanism powering this exquisite timepiece is the Armin Strom Calibre ASB19, an in-house automatic movement centered around the patented Equal Force Barrel. By employing a Geneva stop-work system and a declutch mechanism within the barrel, the ASB19 delivers a constant force to the escapement, ensuring amplitude stability and improved isochronism throughout its 72-hour power reserve. Beating at 25,200 vibrations per hour, the movement features a screwed balance with four regulating screws for precise adjustment.
Haute Horlogerie Finishing
Every component of the Armin Strom calibre is meticulously hand-finished and assembled twice in the brand's Biel manufacture. The finishing details are a testament to haute horlogerie standards, including polished bevels, Geneva stripes, perlage, and black-polished screws. This attention to detail ensures that each watch is a work of art.
Wearing the Ultimate Sapphire Salmon
The Gravity Equal Force Ultimate Sapphire Salmon is presented on a grey nubuck leather strap with matching stitching, secured by a stainless steel folding clasp. Limited to just 25 pieces per year, this exclusive timepiece carries a price tag of CHF 27,500. It's a watch that demands attention and appreciation, a true collector's item.
Final Thoughts
The Armin Strom Gravity Equal Force Ultimate Sapphire Salmon is more than just a watch; it's a statement piece that pushes the boundaries of traditional horology. With its unique color palette and mechanical brilliance, it offers a fresh perspective on timekeeping. But here's where it gets controversial: do you think this watch is a bold step forward or a departure from classic watchmaking traditions? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
