Our Take

From the Orbit to the Mirror Force Resonance, Biel-based Armin Strom has created some of the industry’s most technically interesting and innovative timepieces. It’s not only the highest levels of complicated watchmaking where Armin Strom stands out though. The brand’s Tribute 1 Blue Edition is a masterclass in modern, time-only watchmaking and a serious value proposition in the < $15,000 category of watches.

The Tribute 1 from Armin Strom subscribes to the classical dress watch size at 38mm and simplicity of time-only, but with the brand’s distinct, modern design sensibilities. Pulling from their Swiss-German origins, the balance between the understated blue dial and the exposed barrel and barrel bridge lead this timepiece toward a more industrially-designed aesthetic. The combination of the off-center dial, matte and glossy textures and the shine of hand-finished barrel and bridge create a watch that feels more exciting than a traditional, dressy three-hander.

Turning the timepiece over, the Tribute 1 features caliber AMW21 – a manual-wind, 100 hour power reserve movement. Crafted out of 162 components, the movement is well finished with striping on the mainplate, beveling, polished screws and countersinks. Limited to 100 pieces in stainless steel, this is a timepiece that strikes a rare balance between classical dimensions and modern aesthetics.

The Details

Brand: Armin Strom

Model: Tribute One Blue Edition

Distincitions: Motor-barrel

Case: Stainless steel Sapphire crystal and case back with anti-reflective treatment Diameter: 38.00 mm Height: 9.38 mm Lug-to-Lug: 44.35 mm Water-resistance: 50 m

Dial: Offset blue

Hands: Steel, manufactured by Armin Strom, decorated by hand

Straps: Delivered with a black alligator leather strap Width lugs/buckle: 18/16 mm

Limited Edition: 100 pieces