Biel/Bienne, Switzerland, November 16, 2023: Armin Strom’s Tribute 1, renowned for its pure design, undergoes a chromatic transformation with the introduction of 4 limited-edition fumé dials, each restricted to 10 pieces. Boasting an in-house manual-winding movement with a motor barrel set on a guilloché dial plate, the Tribute 1 Fumé stands as a captivating mechanical masterpiece seamlessly blending modernity with a touch of vintage flair—an embodiment of the Armin Strom ethos of simplicity. Representing the independent manufacturer’s distinctive approach to the classic three-hand watch, the Tribute 1 is a meticulous creation, harmoniously combining every detail to craft an integral and highly original timepiece.
The Tribute 1 Fumé now takes on a more dramatic aesthetic with fumé dials in four striking hues—ocean, slate, sky, and burgundy—each limited to 10 pieces. The guilloché dial plates, crafted by the renowned independent watchmaker Kari Voutilainen’s atelier, contribute to the uniqueness of each timepiece.
The fumé dial, characterized by its dramatic intensity and a play of tones, adds a new dimension to the already three-dimensional Tribute 1. The vignette effect, reminiscent of the 1970s, creates a captivating gradient of bright highlights at the center, gradually transitioning to shadowy contrast at the outer edge. The sunray-brushed finish on the metallic base interacts with light, bringing forth diverse tonalities and shades across the four dial colors. The anthracite guilloché plate, handcrafted by Kari Voutilainen, further enhances this spectacular effect.
Claude Greisler, Co-Founder and Master Watchmaker at Armin Strom, describes the Tribute 1 as a twist on the classic dress watch, emphasizing its slender 38 mm steel case, unconventional 2 o’clock crown placement, and the off-centered small dial displaying hours, minutes, and seconds. The watch’s asymmetry exudes a harmonious charm, showcasing Armin Strom’s mechanical ingenuity from the dial side.
The innovative “motor barrel,” prominently displayed under an open finger-style bridge, stands out for its efficiency and space conservation compared to traditional constructions. Despite being a single mainspring barrel, it offers an impressive 100 hours of power reserve. The manual-winding calibre AMW21, adorned with intricate hand-finishing, demonstrates Armin Strom’s mastery of decoration techniques, making it the brand’s purest movement to date.
Completing the Tribute 1 Fumé is a Grey Alcantara calf leather strap with white stitching, providing a velvety-soft and supple finishing touch.
In releasing the Tribute 1 Fumé limited editions, Armin Strom presents a bold and chromatic interpretation of its alternative three-hand dress watch.
For more information, please visit ArminStrom.com.