A new benchmark for the minute repeater complication

A masterpiece by any definition, the Armin Strom Minute Repeater Resonance 12:59 First Edition represents a fully new development carrying the torch established by the maker's Masterpiece 2 minute repeater from 2020, but it's been expressed through entirely new proportions and mechanical architecture. Engineered in a more compact 42mm case with a slimmer profile, this new novelty achieves a new level of wearability and mechanical complexity with meticulous attention to every component. 

This evolution is accompanied by a significant increase in mechanical intricacy. The striking system has been expanded from two to four hammers and four gongs, while a newly developed function introduces an additional level of user interaction. Through a dedicated selector, the wearer may choose between the conventional indication of time or delight in activating the 12:59 sequence – the longest possible audio sequence in a striking mechanism. 

Beyond its technical advancements, the watch is defined by a singular design language, marked by purity of form and balanced proportions. While remaining fully openworked and three-dimensional, the composition is expressed with greater restraint, favouring softer lines and a more fluid architecture. The resonance clutch has been reoriented to animate upward, bringing the oscillating interaction to the forefront, while the twin balance wheels remain visually anchored on the dial side.

The display is centered, reinforcing a strong sense of equilibrium, as the overall composition focuses on essential elements alone: the resonance system, the four hammers and gongs, and the visible flying governor regulating the cadence of the strike. Conceived as a lasting expression of the complication, the design achieves a rare balance between mechanical intensity and visual harmony, while remaining unmistakably rooted in Armin Strom’s signature transparency. 

At the heart of the timepiece lies the entirely new manual-winding manufacture Calibre ARR25, developed, engineered and produced in-house. Built around Armin Strom’s patented resonance clutch, the movement synchronises two independent regulating systems – each with its own barrel, gear train, escapement and balance wheel – operating in harmonic resonance.

The minute repeater mechanism itself has been developed to match this level of sophistication. Equipped with four hammers and four gongs within a remarkably thin construction, the movement delivers a full Westminster chiming sequence. A flying governor, visible on the dial side beneath the hammers, regulates the cadence of the strike, ensuring acoustic consistency and offering a dynamic visual indication. 

Beyond its mechanical sophistication, the watch reflects Armin Strom’s commitment to hand craftsmanship. Every component is meticulously finished by hand, with a complete 360-degree decoration by a dedicated in-house team. 

Limited Edition: 25 pieces

Specifications

Distinctions

• Westminster chime with 4 hammers and gongs
• Two distinct striking modes: current time display, 12:59 "anytime" strike (column wheel switch for selecting between striking modes)

Movement

• Winding-mechanism: Manual
• Regulating system: flying governor with patented resonance clutch
• Frequency: 25,200 vph
• Number of jewels: 43
• Power reserve: 48 hours

Case

• Stainless steel
• Sapphire crystal and case back with anti-reflective treatment
• Diameter: 42 mm
• Height: 11.00 mm
• Lug-to-Lug: 48 mm
• Water-resistance: 50 m (5 atm)

Dial

• Titanium, anthracite

Hands

• Stainless steel, hand-decorated

Strap

• Matte grey alligator strap with dark grey stitching & matching titanium pin buckle