Striking Improvement: Armin Strom Minute Repeater Resonance 12:59
The Armin Strom Minute Repeater Resonance 12:59 First Edition is a limited‑edition 42 mm titanium watch that combines a minute repeater with a novel “demonstration mode” allowing the watch to chime 12:59 on demand. Its four‑hammer Westminster carillon, coupled oscillators, and elastic resonance clutch spring deliver a rich, audible experience while keeping the case slim at 11.7 mm thick and water‑resistant to 50 m. Only 25 pieces are produced, priced at CHF 390 000 (US$513 000) before taxes. Mechanically, the watch features two balances linked by a precision‑engineered clutch spring, providing a power reserve of 40 hours and a frequency of 25 200 bph. The minute and hour racks interact with specialized levers and beaks to enable full‑distance rack travel in demonstration mode without moving the hands. Crafted in‑house with a Robofil wire EDM machine, the piece showcases meticulous finishing, including mirror‑polished components and careful beveling to preserve spring stiffness.
Buying Time Analysis: This story showcases a groundbreaking advancement in haute‑horlogerie, highlighting Armin Strom’s innovative minute‑repeater with demonstration mode and elastic‑coupled oscillators, which pushes the limits of mechanical watchmaking, rarity, and technical artistry.
