The independent manufacturer Armin Strom is presenting a modern interpretation of the classic dress watch. With the Armin Strom Tribute 1, the company is opposing the trend: last year, due to a lack of occasions, only few dress watches were allowed on the wrist. Nevertheless, Armin Strom is speculating on a turnaround and proves that a modern look also suits the dress watch. The Armin Strom Tribute 1 comes in a reduced case with classic dimensions. Of course, the watchmakers of the house remain true to themselves and place the mainspring barrel prominently on the dial side. It does not have to hide either, as it offers a power reserve of 100 hours. However, the Tribute 1 is denied to most contemporary gentlemen: the first production run will be limited to 25 pieces.
The Tribute 1 is housed in a stainless steel case with a classic diameter of 38 mm. With a height of 9.38 mm, the timepiece is also slender – by the standards of an Armin Strom. Generous lugs complement the geometry and introduce edges into the equation. For a modern twist, the manufacture places the crown at 2 o’clock, which should also benefit wearing comfort. Meanwhile, anti-reflective sapphire crystal protects both the front and the back. Another typical Dress Watch trait is the rather modest water resistance of 5 bar or 50 metres.
The front of the Tribute 1 is dominated by the visible mainspring barrel, which is attached to a bridge that, like the mainspring case, is polished by hand. The barrel also bears the inscription: “One Hundred Hours Of Power Reserve – Manual Winding -“, which refers to the characteristics of the movement. Meanwhile, the off-centre dial contrasts with the rough surface of the periphery. The hands were specially designed for this model and are also polished by hand.
On the dial side of the Armin Strom Tribute 1, the barrel can be seen. But the AMW21 calibre also presents itself on the back. By foregoing an automatic winding mechanism, the view onto the three-quarter plate and the regulating organs is unobstructed. The manually wound calibre has a strong power reserve of 100 hours. Meanwhile, the screw balance beats at a frequency of 3.5 Hz. In total, the movement consists of 135 parts and 21 jewels.
The watchmakers also finish the movement to the highest standards. For one, Geneva stripes decorate the plate. The movement plate is also given a circular finish. The balance cock and the stepped cock of the escape wheel create a three-dimensional look. In addition, the edges are bevelled and even the holes of the jewels are polished to a shiny finish.
The first edition of the Tribute 1 is limited to 25 pieces. These first watches are also distinguished by the white gold barrel bridge. In addition, the manufacture grants a 10-year guarantee on them. Last but not least, the Dress Watch appears on an Alcantara calfskin strap with a stainless steel double-folding clasp. The price of the Armin Strom Tribute 1 is 13,900 Swiss francs.
