Armin Strom has long been a name synonymous with innovation and craftsmanship in the world of haute horlogerie. With its latest release, the Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli Unique Edition for TimeForArt 2024, the Swiss independent watchmaker has created a timepiece that seamlessly blends mechanical ingenuity with artistic brilliance. This watch is more than just a luxury timepiece—it is a celebration of resonance technology, an homage to the renowned Swiss artist Franz Gertsch, and an example of Armin Strom’s ability to merge cutting-edge horology with fine art.
This one-of-a-kind edition was designed exclusively for the TimeForArt auction, a charitable event where proceeds benefit artists and art institutions. Featuring a dial made with ultramarine lapis lazuli pigment, a patented resonance mechanism, and a stunning hand-wound ARF21 movement, this watch is truly a work of art.
In this detailed review, we’ll explore every aspect of this masterpiece, from its unique resonance technology and technical specifications to its historical inspirations, artistic connections, and collector appeal.
Before diving into the details of the Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli, it’s essential to understand the significance of resonance in horology.
Resonance is a rare and fascinating mechanical principle in which two oscillating systems synchronize with each other, leading to improved accuracy and stability. This phenomenon occurs when vibrations from one oscillator influence another, allowing both to move in harmony.
In watchmaking, resonance was first explored in the 18th century by legendary horologist Abraham-Louis Breguet. The concept was revisited by a few watchmakers over the years, but Armin Strom has perfected and modernized it with its patented Resonance Clutch Spring, which allows two independent balance wheels to synchronize efficiently.
Unlike traditional resonance watches, which rely on complex gear trains or shared bridges, Armin Strom’s system uses a flexible steel clutch spring that physically links the two balance wheels. This innovation allows the balances to achieve resonance more quickly and remain synchronized, resulting in greater precision and stability.
The ARF21 caliber, the engine of this unique edition, is an evolution of Armin Strom’s previous resonance movements. This caliber enhances energy efficiency while showcasing the mesmerizing dance of two perfectly synchronized balances on the dial side.
At the heart of the Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli Unique Edition is the manually wound Caliber ARF21, a movement designed and produced in-house by Armin Strom.
• Movement Type: Manual winding
• Power Reserve: 48 hours
• Number of Components: 276
• Jewels: 39
• Frequency: 3.5 Hz (25,200 vibrations per hour)
• Resonance Mechanism: Patented Resonance Clutch Spring
The beauty of this movement lies not only in its technical prowess but also in its architectural design. The two open-worked balance wheels and the clutch spring are visible on the dial, offering an engaging view of resonance in action. This dynamic display makes the watch not just a precision instrument but also a captivating visual experience.
Moreover, the hand-finishing on the movement is exceptional, featuring perlage, anglage, and Geneva stripes, all of which highlight the brand’s commitment to traditional Swiss craftsmanship.
Beyond its technical excellence, this timepiece is a true work of art, paying homage to Franz Gertsch, one of Switzerland’s most renowned contemporary artists.
Franz Gertsch was known for his photorealistic paintings and woodcuts, many of which prominently featured deep ultramarine hues. His “Blue Phase”, in particular, showcased the mesmerizing depths of lapis lazuli, a pigment historically valued in fine art.
Lapis lazuli, prized since antiquity for its rich ultramarine color, was used by artists like Michelangelo, Vermeer, and Gertsch himself. By incorporating real lapis lazuli pigment into the dial, Armin Strom not only honors Gertsch’s legacy but also creates a direct bridge between fine art and haute horlogerie.
The dial of the Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli is breathtaking, featuring a deep ultramarine blue hue that changes with the light. Crafted in collaboration with ArteCad, the specialists responsible for applying the lapis lazuli pigment, the dial has an intense visual depth and texture.
Instead of opting for a traditional flat dial, Armin Strom allows the lapis lazuli pigment to interact with light, creating a living surface that shifts between deep blue and vibrant purple depending on the angle. This artistic approach ensures that each watch dial is unique, much like an original painting.
• Case Diameter: 43mm
• Material: Stainless steel
• Water Resistance: 3 ATM
• Strap: White nubuck leather
The 43mm stainless steel case perfectly complements the vibrant blue dial. With its mix of satin-brushed and polished surfaces, the case offers a balance between modern boldness and classic elegance. The white nubuck leather strap with double folding clasp in stainless steel adds a refined contrast, enhancing the overall sophistication of the watch.
As a unique piece, the Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli is an irreplaceable collector’s item. Unlike limited editions, which have multiple units, this is a true one-of-one creation, making it an unparalleled investment in both horology and art.
This watch was created for TimeForArt 2024, an auction where proceeds benefit artists and art institutions. By purchasing this piece, the collector not only acquires a rare and valuable timepiece but also contributes to the future of contemporary art.
For watch enthusiasts, this piece represents the cutting edge of independent watchmaking. The resonance technology, coupled with meticulous Swiss craftsmanship, makes it one of the most technically fascinating watches in the industry.
To understand its significance, let’s compare this Armin Strom masterpiece with some other notable resonance watches.
While F.P. Journe and Haldimann offer incredible resonance watches, Armin Strom stands out for its modern approach, open-worked display, and artistic dial execution.
The Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli Unique Edition is a watch that transcends traditional horology. It is a mechanical marvel, an artistic tribute, and a collector’s dream all in one.
With its cutting-edge resonance technology, breathtaking lapis lazuli dial, and philanthropic significance, this timepiece represents the pinnacle of independent Swiss watchmaking.
For those lucky enough to bid on and acquire this watch, it will not just be a luxury timepiece—it will be a piece of history, a tribute to Franz Gertsch, and a lasting testament to the beauty of art and horology combined.
[photo credits: Armin Strom / arminstrom.com]
In this detailed review, we’ll explore every aspect of this masterpiece, from its unique resonance technology and technical specifications to its historical inspirations, artistic connections, and collector appeal.
The Legacy of Resonance in Watchmaking
Before diving into the details of the Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli, it’s essential to understand the significance of resonance in horology.
What is Resonance?
Resonance is a rare and fascinating mechanical principle in which two oscillating systems synchronize with each other, leading to improved accuracy and stability. This phenomenon occurs when vibrations from one oscillator influence another, allowing both to move in harmony.
In watchmaking, resonance was first explored in the 18th century by legendary horologist Abraham-Louis Breguet. The concept was revisited by a few watchmakers over the years, but Armin Strom has perfected and modernized it with its patented Resonance Clutch Spring, which allows two independent balance wheels to synchronize efficiently.
How Armin Strom Revolutionized Resonance
Unlike traditional resonance watches, which rely on complex gear trains or shared bridges, Armin Strom’s system uses a flexible steel clutch spring that physically links the two balance wheels. This innovation allows the balances to achieve resonance more quickly and remain synchronized, resulting in greater precision and stability.
The ARF21 caliber, the engine of this unique edition, is an evolution of Armin Strom’s previous resonance movements. This caliber enhances energy efficiency while showcasing the mesmerizing dance of two perfectly synchronized balances on the dial side.
Technical Excellence: A Closer Look at the ARF21 Movement
At the heart of the Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli Unique Edition is the manually wound Caliber ARF21, a movement designed and produced in-house by Armin Strom.
Key Specifications of the ARF21 Caliber:
• Movement Type: Manual winding
• Power Reserve: 48 hours
• Number of Components: 276
• Jewels: 39
• Frequency: 3.5 Hz (25,200 vibrations per hour)
• Resonance Mechanism: Patented Resonance Clutch Spring
The beauty of this movement lies not only in its technical prowess but also in its architectural design. The two open-worked balance wheels and the clutch spring are visible on the dial, offering an engaging view of resonance in action. This dynamic display makes the watch not just a precision instrument but also a captivating visual experience.
Moreover, the hand-finishing on the movement is exceptional, featuring perlage, anglage, and Geneva stripes, all of which highlight the brand’s commitment to traditional Swiss craftsmanship.
The Stunning Aesthetic: A Tribute to Franz Gertsch and Lapis Lazuli
Beyond its technical excellence, this timepiece is a true work of art, paying homage to Franz Gertsch, one of Switzerland’s most renowned contemporary artists.
Franz Gertsch and His Iconic “Blue Phase”
Franz Gertsch was known for his photorealistic paintings and woodcuts, many of which prominently featured deep ultramarine hues. His “Blue Phase”, in particular, showcased the mesmerizing depths of lapis lazuli, a pigment historically valued in fine art.
Lapis lazuli, prized since antiquity for its rich ultramarine color, was used by artists like Michelangelo, Vermeer, and Gertsch himself. By incorporating real lapis lazuli pigment into the dial, Armin Strom not only honors Gertsch’s legacy but also creates a direct bridge between fine art and haute horlogerie.
Dial Design: The Power of Ultramarine
The dial of the Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli is breathtaking, featuring a deep ultramarine blue hue that changes with the light. Crafted in collaboration with ArteCad, the specialists responsible for applying the lapis lazuli pigment, the dial has an intense visual depth and texture.
Instead of opting for a traditional flat dial, Armin Strom allows the lapis lazuli pigment to interact with light, creating a living surface that shifts between deep blue and vibrant purple depending on the angle. This artistic approach ensures that each watch dial is unique, much like an original painting.
Case and Strap Details
• Case Diameter: 43mm
• Material: Stainless steel
• Water Resistance: 3 ATM
• Strap: White nubuck leather
The 43mm stainless steel case perfectly complements the vibrant blue dial. With its mix of satin-brushed and polished surfaces, the case offers a balance between modern boldness and classic elegance. The white nubuck leather strap with double folding clasp in stainless steel adds a refined contrast, enhancing the overall sophistication of the watch.
Collector’s Perspective: Why This Watch is a Must-Have
A One-of-a-Kind Masterpiece
As a unique piece, the Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli is an irreplaceable collector’s item. Unlike limited editions, which have multiple units, this is a true one-of-one creation, making it an unparalleled investment in both horology and art.
The TimeForArt Auction and Philanthropy
This watch was created for TimeForArt 2024, an auction where proceeds benefit artists and art institutions. By purchasing this piece, the collector not only acquires a rare and valuable timepiece but also contributes to the future of contemporary art.
Innovation Meets Tradition
For watch enthusiasts, this piece represents the cutting edge of independent watchmaking. The resonance technology, coupled with meticulous Swiss craftsmanship, makes it one of the most technically fascinating watches in the industry.
Comparisons to Other High-End Watches
To understand its significance, let’s compare this Armin Strom masterpiece with some other notable resonance watches.
Feature | Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli | F.P. Journe Chronomètre à Résonance | Haldimann H2 Flying Resonance |
Resonance Mechanism | Patented Resonance Clutch Spring | Shared gear train | Dual balance wheels |
Case Size | 43mm | 40mm | 39mm |
Dial | Lapis lazuli pigment | Dual independent dials | Open dial design |
Power Reserve | 48 hours | 40 hours | 45 hours |
Production | Unique piece | Limited production | Highly limited |
Price Range | Auction-based | $150,000+ | $200,000+ |
While F.P. Journe and Haldimann offer incredible resonance watches, Armin Strom stands out for its modern approach, open-worked display, and artistic dial execution.
Conclusion: A Timeless Blend of Art and Engineering
The Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli Unique Edition is a watch that transcends traditional horology. It is a mechanical marvel, an artistic tribute, and a collector’s dream all in one.
With its cutting-edge resonance technology, breathtaking lapis lazuli dial, and philanthropic significance, this timepiece represents the pinnacle of independent Swiss watchmaking.
For those lucky enough to bid on and acquire this watch, it will not just be a luxury timepiece—it will be a piece of history, a tribute to Franz Gertsch, and a lasting testament to the beauty of art and horology combined.
[photo credits: Armin Strom / arminstrom.com]
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