Armin Strom - Tribute 1 California

0 0 Monday, 15 November 2021 Edit this post

Launched In June 2021, the Tribute 1 model by Armin Strom has been already presented in three different variations: with grey, blue or black dials.

The Biel/Bienne based watchmaker is now presenting the Tribute 1 California featuring a new California-style dial created in a choice of five fumé colours standing out against an amazingly crafted black guilloché plate.

Each colour option has been produced in a limited edition of five pieces making these 25 pieces really exclusive.

The new model takes its name from the so-called California dial, which is characterised by the alternation of Roman and Arabic numerals. Dating back to the 1930s, this design adds a nice vintage touch to the ensemble,

Available in blue, light blue, green, burgundy and black, the five “fumé” dials incorporate a sunburst pattern with a gradient effect that makes the colour darker towards the outer edge.

Completed by in-house-produced hands and a railway track minute ring and protected by a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides, the dial intersects with the eye-catching barrel embossed with the text "MANUAL WINDING - ONE HUNDRED HOURS OF POWER RESERVE" and held in place by a sculpted bridge made of brass.

The black guilloché plate around these two elements creates a striking effect.

The lines of the 38 mm x 9 mm stainless steel case are well highlighted by the alternation of satin-brushed and polished surfaces. The angular lugs and the large crown at 2 o'clock contribute to the distinctive look of the Tribute 1.

The slim polished bezel features a small embossment at 6 o'clock that is a nod to a signature element of the brand that was originally designed to offer a surface for personalizing the watch with engraved initials.

The sapphire crystal case back displays the beautifully decorated hand-wound Caliber AMW21. To guarantee the highest quality, Armin Strom assemble this manufacture movement twice. After the first assembly, the movement is disassembled and each individual part cleaned, dried, reassembled and lubricated before being meticulously regulated, tested, and returned to the case.

Finishes includes Côtes de Genève, polished jewel sinks and a circular grained mainplate. All edges are hand beveled. The gear train bridge is beveled and polished in 60° - a process that is more complex to execute and takes twice as long. The engraving “1 OUT OF 5” remarks the exclusivity of this edition.

Beating at the frequency of 3.5 Hz (25,200 vibrations per hour), the movement is equipped with a flat hairspring with a variable inertia balance wheel. It guarantees an autonomy of 100 hours.

Completed by an alligator leather strap with stitching that matches the colour of the dial, the Armin Strom Tribute 1 California will be available in December 2021 at the price of CHF 17,900 / Euro 16,500 / US$ 19,000. arminstrom.com