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Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli Unique Edition Watch

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.

Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli Unique Edition Watch Dial

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.

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.

Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli Unique Edition Watch Close Look

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 Museum Franz Gertsch Blue Phase

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.

Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli Unique Edition Watch Dial Close Look

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.

Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli Unique Edition Wristwatch

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.

Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance Lapislazuli Unique Edition Men's Watch

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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