Straum proudly announces the release of the Jan Mayen Basalt Limited Edition, a watch that celebrates the raw beauty of volcanic basalt rock sourced from the remote island of Jan Mayen. Limited to just 100 pieces, this model brings an extraordinary material to the world of watchmaking. Each dial is crafted from thin wafers of basalt, a complex, multi-step process showcasing Straum’s dedication to artistry and technical precision. Pre-orders for the Jan Mayen Basalt Limited Edition open on October 23, 18:00 CET, with a price of €1,900 (excluding VAT).
A Watch Rooted in Exploration and Endurance
Inspired by the rugged landscape of Jan Mayen—a volcanic island dominated by the active Beerenberg volcano—this release continues Straum’s theme of merging Norwegian natural beauty with fine watchmaking. The 39mm case is crafted from 316L stainless steel, designed to withstand challenging environments, with features such as a screw-down crown and 10ATM water resistance, ensuring durability in various conditions. The integrated stainless-steel bracelet is CNC machined with a tapered fit for optimal wearability, embracing both functional and aesthetic appeal.
Unique Dial Variants Inspired by the Forces of Nature
The Jan Mayen Basalt Limited Edition features three distinct dial variations, each representing an aspect of the island’s volcanic character:
- Magma Red: A vibrant red dial symbolizing the fiery core of the volcano, with a sunburst finish that captures the energy of the molten landscape beneath Jan Mayen.
- Radiant Mist: A fully lumed dial with a fumé gradient, designed to evoke the island’s ethereal fog rolling over basalt rock. The luminescent glow highlights the natural patterns within the basalt.
- Volcanic Grey: A grey dial inspired by the monochromatic volcanic terrain, with a sunburst finish that reflects the enduring strength of solidified basalt rock.
Each watch features a basalt dial overlaying a brass base, ensuring no two dials are alike due to the unique textures and patterns formed by trapped gas pockets in the cooling lava.
Precision Movement and Specifications
The Jan Mayen Basalt is powered by the La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement, a Swiss-made caliber that reinforces Straum’s commitment to quality and durability. This COSC-certified chronometer movement is adjusted to four positions for accuracy, delivering a 68-hour power reserve. Key specifications include:
- Dimensions: 38.7mm case diameter, 11.5mm thickness, and 45.7mm lug-to-lug.
- Bracelet: Stainless steel with a taper from 24.8mm to 18mm at the clasp.
- Hands: Diamond-cut, filled with Super-LumiNova Grade A for legibility in low light.
- Water Resistance: Rated to 10ATM, suitable for various outdoor conditions.
A Complex Crafting Process
Straum’s journey to create the Jan Mayen Basalt dial began with an expedition to the remote island, collecting volcanic rock samples under strict environmental regulations. The dial-making process involves cutting, stabilizing, and polishing the basalt wafers to ensure durability and clarity while preserving the rock’s unique appearance. “The final assembly is a labor of love, requiring several stages of precision work to ensure the basalt remains intact,” says Øystein Helle Husby, co-founder of Straum.
A Limited Edition for Collectors and Adventurers
Limited to 100 pieces, the Jan Mayen Basalt embodies the spirit of adventure and reverence for nature that defines Straum’s philosophy. “Each dial is crafted from basalt rocks we brought back from our expedition,” adds Lasse Roxrud Farstad, co-founder of Straum. “Every watch is distinct, capturing the interplay of lava, gas pockets, and time.” The pre-order phase for this release is set to open on October 23, with initial availability to loyal customers and in-person attendees at the Windup Watch Fair in New York from October 18–20.
For more information and to place an order, visit Straum’s website.
