In 2016, Armin Strom captivated the watchmaking world with the debut of the Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance, a remarkable technical achievement that miniaturised the centuries-old concept of synchronised motion within a wristwatch. By using two independent oscillators connected through a patented resonance clutch spring, the brand brought to life the discovery of Christiaan Huygens, who observed that two pendulum clocks suspended from the same beam would naturally synchronise over time.
Now presented in its second generation with a more refined and elegant design, Armin Strom embraces the beauty of gemstone dials with the striking steel Mirrored Force Resonance Ruby. Its rich red ruby dial adds warmth and depth to the watch’s dynamic, open display, highlighting the mesmerising mechanics at the heart of this innovative timepiece.
Like all members of the Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance family, the resonance mechanism is fully exposed on the dial, presenting a captivating and educational display of two mechanical “hearts” beating in perfect synchrony. The refreshed second-generation model debuted in 2022, followed by notable editions such as the Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance Zeitgeist 1665 and an opulent rose gold version featuring a black guilloché dial.
While the new generation retained its 43mm case diameter, the thickness was reduced to 11.55mm, giving the watch a slimmer, more refined profile. A glass-box sapphire crystal now covers the dial, offering a clearer view of the intricate mechanics. The layout remains distinctive, with the time displayed on an offset dial to the right, intersected by twin running seconds indicators, while the left side showcases the stars of the watch: the resonance clutch spring and dual balance wheels.
Featuring a dial crafted from genuine ruby, the watch introduces a striking contrast between the precise symmetry and cool grey tones of its exposed technical components and the naturally variegated pink-to-deep-red hues of the gemstone. The vibrant stone dial adds warmth and visual depth to the otherwise highly technical display.
Unlike other Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance models, this version incorporates white-printed Roman numerals for the hours, lending a refined, classical touch to its contemporary architecture. Completing the display, the skeletonised hour and minute hands are manufactured in-house by Armin Strom, underscoring the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and detail.
Accented by two synthetic rubies, the pair of balance springs on the left side of the dial—each powered by its own gear train and barrel—are connected by the patented resonance clutch spring, linking the two balance wheels much like the wooden beam described by Christiaan Huygens in his famous resonance observation.
The twin seconds indicators, distinguished by ruby-coloured inlays and finely snailed tracks, are directly connected to the regulating organs. They can also be reset simultaneously using the pusher at 2 o’clock, adding both practicality and visual harmony to this remarkable display by Armin Strom.
Sharing the refined case design of the second generation, the 43mm stainless steel case of the Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance features shorter lugs and a more discreet lip at 6 o’clock for a sleeker profile on the wrist. The finishing combines brushed case sides with polished upper surfaces, creating a balanced interplay of textures that highlights the contemporary elegance and craftsmanship of Armin Strom.
Turning the watch over reveals the elegant symmetry of the ARF21 in-house manual-winding movement by Armin Strom. The mainplate features engraved bas-relief text, while the open bridges and gear trains are arranged in a mirrored layout and meticulously finished by hand. Beating at 3.5Hz, the calibre delivers a reliable power reserve of approximately 48 hours, reflecting the technical precision behind the Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance.
The Armin Strom Mirrored Force Resonance Ruby is paired with a dark grey Alcantara strap accented by white stitching and subtle pink stitches beneath the lugs, secured with a stainless steel pin buckle. This exceptional timepiece is released as a highly exclusive limited edition of just five pieces worldwide and is priced at approximately SGD 128,000. For more details, visit Armin Strom’s official website.
