Armin Strom Tribute 1 California
The Armin Strom Tribute 1 California is yet another new creation from the prolific team based at the Manufacture in Biel. The term ‘California’ may sound strange when discussing a Swiss watch, however, US-based writer, Meehna Goldsmith, explains the origins of the name as she explores the remarkable exemplar of Haute Horlogerie.
The latest and greatest Armin Strom Tribute 1 model has arrived. For this twirl on the dance floor, the brand introduces the limited-edition Tribute 1 California dial.
What does the Tribute 1 California have that other Tribute 1s don’t? That retro yet timeless California dial, of course. First appearing in the 1930s, the California dial is a combo of Roman and Arabic numerals, with the Romans in the box seats above the Arabics. In addition, the traditional layout includes baton markings at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock and a triangular index at 12 o’clock.
Let’s rewind back for a moment, and it’s a pretty short moment, to take a look at the Tribute 1 and its significance in the Armin Strom lineup. Introduced only six months ago in mid-2021, the Tribute 1 is the brand’s modern interpretation of a classic dress watch. It’s slim enough to slip under a cuff in a classic 38mm case, giving a nod to more traditional sizes. However, it also shows a rebellious side by locating the crown at 2 o’clock, in contrast to the old guards standing resolutely at 3 o’clock.
Armin Strom is a relentless innovator. You don’t have to look far to see this innovation on the Tribute 1. The sculptural motor barrel greets you immediately on the front of the dial. In an unusual construction, the arbor turns around the mainspring within the barrel, saving space while also improving efficiency.
If that weren’t enough, in addition to performing its mechanical duties, the barrel is poised and posed to aesthetically impress. And it sure does, sneaking in from stage right at 4 o’clock, a two-arm bridge reaches across the lower portion of the dial, supporting the barrel with a sizeable dose of style. In a move of unnecessary, in my opinion, showboating, the brand has chosen to advertise the 100-hour power reserve on the upper surface of the barrel. But that just comes down to personal taste. I prefer a more discreet presentation.
Fans went wild for the limited-edition Tribute 1, which quickly sold out, so Armin Strom followed up with a Blue Edition and then a Black Edition. Now joining the team is the Tribute 1 California. While the previous editions of this model use a tone-on-tone colour scheme for the dial, the Armin Strom Tradition 1 California employs a costume change, injecting some eye-popping colour into the proceedings.
Each of the blue, light blue, green and burgundy fumé dials burst out from the black guilloché plate. These frolicking colours add a playful quality, which is another departure from the traditional dress watch. For those preferring the moody and dramatic monochromatic look, the Tradition 1 California also comes in a black-on-black colour composition as well.
When you examine the fumé dials, you’ll see the complexity and depth of the colour in the sunburst pattern. As your eye moves from the centre of the dial to the edge, the pigment deepens and becomes richer.
Did you know that Armin Strom is a true Manufacture? No smoke and mirrors there. The brand designs and produces just about every part of the movement in its Biel/Bienne atelier, including the skeletonised and hand-finished hands.
Perhaps you’re familiar with the name Kari Voutilainen, the independent watchmaker with a cultish following of devotees. If you’ve seen his construction and finishing, you’ll understand why so many fall under the spell. However, his pricing leaves most gazing with jealousy through a glass window like observing a rare animal at the zoo. So why do I bring up Voutilainen? Because you too can have a taste of the Finnish horologist’s artistry and craftsmanship with the Tribute 1 California. That gorgeous black guilloché plate was designed by him.
So, how is all this refinement, innovation and Haute Horlogerie achieved at such a price? It’s a legit question. As the old adage goes, if it’s too good to be true, it most likely is. Au contraire, in this instance. Armin Strom introduced the System 78 collection in 2019 with the Gravity Equal Force, to provide innovative “firsts” and traditional watchmaking at an accessible price point.
Once again, the Armin Strom proves you don’t have to raid your kid’s college fund or dip into your 401K to wear a piece of Switzerland’s finest. Since the Tribute 1 California is limited to 25 pieces, five in each dial treatment, the toughest decision may be which one to choose.
Further reading
Technical specification
- Model: Armin Strom Tribute 1 California
- Reference: ST21-TNS.05.AL.M.35 (blue dial)
- Reference: ST21-TNS.11.AL.M.35 (light blue dial)
- Reference: ST21-TNS.20.AL.M.35 (green dial)
- Reference: ST21-TNS.10.AL.M.35 (burgundy dial)
- Reference: ST21-TNS.75.AL.M.35 (black dial)
- Case: Diameter 38mm; height 9mm; water resistance 5ATM (50 metres); sapphire crystal to front; exhibition case back.
- Functions: Hours; minutes; seconds
- Movement: Caliber AMW21; hand-wound movement; frequency 25,200 Vph (3.5Hz); 21 jewels; power reserve 100 hours; 135 components.
- Strap: Black alligator leather strap and double folding clasp in stainless steel
- Price: CHF 17,900 – (RRP as at 4.12.2021)
- Limited Edition: 5 pieces in each colour, 25 pieces in total