Resonance watches are a rarity in watchmaking due to the formidable technical challenges they pose in adjustment and maintenance, which explains why only a handful of modern examples, such as the F. P. Journe Chronomètre à Résonance, Vianney Halter’s La Resonance, and Haldimann's H2 Resonance Flying Tourbillon, are often remembered. In 2016, we saw Armin Strom introduce a noteworthy addition to that list: cue in the Mirrored Force Resonance ‘Water’, which is also the watch offered here today.
Before we begin, it is worth noting that Armin Strom categorizes the material used on its watches based on the elements of ‘Earth’, ‘Air’, ‘Fire’, and ‘Water’, with 'water' symbolizing the use of stainless steel. Limited to just 50 pieces, the Mirrored Force Resonance garnered immediate acclaim for its innovative and fresh approach to reimagining the role of resonance in watchmaking, as well as to showcase the manufacture’s technical expertise in expressing their distinctive design language.
In the realm of watchmaking history, the concept of resonance holds profound significance, representing one of the most intricate and fascinating phenomena in haute horlogerie. Its origins can be traced back to the 17th century when Galileo Galilei first observed it, with its practical application eventually pioneered by the visionary mathematician and physicist Christiaan Huygens, who also notably invented the pendulum clock. Even in contemporary times, only a select group of watchmakers have truly grasped its intricacies, among them is Claude Griesler, the co-founder and head watchmaker at Armin Strom.
The resonance phenomenon, in the context of watchmaking, revolves around the synchronization between two individual oscillating hairsprings to enhance the overall stability and accuracy of their timekeeping. Armin Strom ingeniously recreated this phenomenon with a patented Resonance Clutch Spring - a piece of innovation that acts like a coupling structure, which facilitates a more efficient transfer of vibrational energy between the two corresponding hairsprings, effectively inducing resonance in the balance wheels. To put it simply, this level of synchronization creates a sort of mutual optimisation between the oscillating hairsprings, ensuring a consistent beat rate for the movement, which also serves as a built-in mechanism for regulating timekeeping precision, as well as a protective measure against external perturbations like impacts, etc.
Starting with the stainless steel case construction of the Mirrored Force Resonance, it showcases a mirror-polished bezel, a unique protrusion or "chin" at the 6 o'clock position, strong angular lugs, and a brushed mid-case band. In terms of wearability, despite its sizable dimensions measuring 43.4mm x 13mm, the Mirrored Force Resonance feels surprisingly compact on the wrist, considering the number of components housed within.
Visually, the dial on the Mirrored Force Resonance is a captivating spectacle. Positioned off-center and leaning towards the right side is a dial which indicates the hour and minutes. Adjacent to this, on the left side, the patented Resonance Clutch Spring captures attention as it pulsates between the two mirrored regulating organs. These components, in turn, drive the two open-worked small seconds indications beside them which also partially intersect with the main dial. Here, their three-handed pointers rotate in opposing directions, creating a truly mesmerizing display. There is a certain hypnotic quality to seeing the motion of the resonance spring along with the synchronized beating of the two balances, beating away in tandem and perfect harmony.
Moving on to its movement, if you turn the Mirrored Force Resonance over on its back, you’ll be greeted with Armin Strom’s in-house, manual-winding Cal. ARF15, beating away methodically at 25,200 vph beneath the exhibition sapphire caseback. Despite its seemingly restrained and clean overall aesthetics, the movement is impeccably finished to a very high level with circular côtes de Genève (Geneva stripes) and snailing. It also holds a power reserve of 48 hours when fully wound.
Limited to just 50 pieces worldwide, the Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance ‘Water’ is a spectacular feat of complexity and a rare gem deserving of considerable attention from collectors. It also presents a compelling proposition for the most discerning collectors who value a modernist approach to watchmaking, particularly one that reimagines age-old concepts such as the resonance phenomenon while seamlessly integrating form and function. Ultimately, the Mirrored Force Resonance exemplifies the technical mastery of a small independent manufacturer and its dedication to pushing the frontiers of horological innovation. It truly represents a technological tour de force for the brand.
