Blue is hardly anything new in the world of watchmaking. Yet when Armin Strom applies it to one of its most technically fascinating movements, the result is anything but predictable.
The new Dual Time GMT Resonance Manufacture Edition Blue combines deep blue movement architecture, two white dials and patented resonance technology in a watch created for collectors who appreciate both sophisticated mechanics and details that only reveal themselves upon closer inspection.
With the new Armin Strom Dual Time GMT Resonance Manufacture Edition Blue, color is far more than a final aesthetic touch. Deep blue extends across the movement’s mainplate, hands and hour markers before continuing onto the dark blue alligator leather strap.
The result has a subtle retro-chic character while remaining distinctly contemporary – particularly thanks to the open architecture for which the Swiss manufacture is known.
Two White Dials Above a Blue Mechanical Landscape
A striking contrast to the blue foundation is provided by two finely grained white dials with white azurage rings.
Their texture reacts beautifully to the light, while the blue mainplate remains clearly visible beneath them. Applied hour markers with blue PVD coating and faceted blue hands further connect the two levels of the design.
Special attention has been given to the day/night indicators. Each dial receives its own black-polished indicator featuring sunray and crescent moon motifs, with the surface of the moon engraved with a texture reminiscent of lunar craters.
Together, these elements give the watch an almost architectural character – the eye does not stop at the dials, but travels through multiple layers all the way down to the movement.
Two Time Zones and Two Oscillators Connected by Resonance
Yet the most important feature of this watch is not its new color.
Inside the case is the manufacture Calibre ARF22, designed, developed and produced entirely in-house by Armin Strom. The movement displays two independent time zones, each with its own hours, minutes and day/night indicator.
Its true distinction lies in two independent regulating systems that, thanks to the patented resonance clutch system, are able to oscillate in resonance with one another.
The physical phenomenon of resonance is therefore not hidden deep within the movement. The two balance wheels are constantly operating in full view of the wearer, creating a dynamic, almost hypnotic spectacle and a striking sense of three-dimensionality.
The calibre operates at a frequency of 3.5 Hz, or 25,200 vibrations per hour, while offering a 42-hour power reserve.
For travelers who frequently move between time zones, this complicated mechanical architecture also serves an entirely practical purpose: both times can be read independently and intuitively.
Blue Reveals Details That Might Otherwise Remain in the Shadows
Armin Strom has also used the new shade to emphasize the movement’s traditional hand-finishing.
On the front, the blue mainplate frames the white dial surfaces and open construction, but the real play of light continues when the watch is turned over.
The same blue mainplate appears on the reverse, this time featuring raised lettering created through laser engraving and two matching blue gear-train bridges.
Polished bevelled edges become particularly striking against the deep blue PVD surfaces. What might remain a discreet watchmaking detail on a more conventional movement becomes one of the primary design elements here.
The rhodium-colored barrel bridge is decorated with traditional Côtes de Genève, while the finishing is completed by black-polished components, circular graining and perlage.
In other words, blue has not been used here to conceal the mechanics, but for precisely the opposite reason – to make them even more visible.
A Watch for Those Who Like to Look a Little Closer
The Dual Time GMT Resonance Manufacture Edition Blue is a particularly good expression of the Armin Strom philosophy. At first glance, it is the contrast between blue and white, the open architecture and the two dials that attract attention. Only then does it become apparent just how much is actually happening beneath the surface.
Two independent time displays, two regulating systems, the physical phenomenon of resonance, traditional hand-finishing and the architecture of the movement all become part of the same visual experience.
And its exclusivity will not be defined by complicated mechanics alone.
The Armin Strom Dual Time GMT Resonance Manufacture Edition Blue will be produced in just 50 pieces worldwide.
In a sea of blue luxury watches, this one therefore attempts something considerably more difficult than simply introducing another attractive shade – it makes a familiar color feel unexpected.
