Armin Strom One Week Manufacture Edition

The world of haute horlogerie is one of meticulous craftsmanship, intricate movements, and a rich tapestry of history. Few brands embody this spirit quite like Armin Strom, a Swiss watchmaker whose journey towards independence has been paved with a commitment to innovation and a dedication to the art of watchmaking. The latest chapter in this story is the One Week Manufacture Edition, a timepiece that pays homage to the brand's roots while pushing the boundaries of contemporary watch design.

Fifteen years ago, Armin Strom embarked on a transformative journey. Recognizing that true independence in the watchmaking world could only be achieved by mastering every aspect of the creation process, the company established its own manufacture in Biel, Switzerland. This pivotal decision marked a turning point in the brand's history, allowing them to control every step from concept to completion.



Just a year later, the fruits of this labor were revealed with the release of the One Week, the first timepiece to emerge from Armin Strom's vertically integrated manufacture. This groundbreaking watch, characterized by its symmetrical harmony and a unique movement architecture boasting a seven-day power reserve, was a testament to the brand's unwavering pursuit of excellence. It was a watch that not only captured the essence of Armin Strom's philosophy but also set the stage for a series of remarkable calibers and innovations that would follow.

Fast forward to the present day, and Armin Strom has unveiled the One Week Manufacture Edition, a modern reimagining of that iconic timepiece from 2010. Limited to just 100 pieces, this watch represents a harmonious blend of heritage and innovation.

At first glance, the One Week Manufacture Edition captivates with its sleek and sporty aesthetic. The 41mm stainless steel case, paired with an integrated steel bracelet, exudes a contemporary elegance that is both refined and understated. The anthracite PVD-coated mainplate and bridges add a touch of industrial chic, creating a visual contrast that is both striking and sophisticated.

But the true magic of this timepiece lies within its intricate movement. The openworked design allows for an unobstructed view of the watch's inner workings, revealing a mechanical ballet of gears, springs, and levers. This is not merely a watch; it's a window into the heart of horological artistry.



The One Week Manufacture Edition is powered by the new manual-winding ARM21 caliber, a testament to Armin Strom's technical prowess. Two mainspring barrels, working in series, deliver an impressive seven-day power reserve, ensuring that this watch is not just a showpiece but a reliable companion for the modern adventurer.

The power reserve indicator, inspired by vintage pocket watches, is a testament to the brand's attention to detail. A mirror-polished cone, driven by a conical gear on the opposite side of the dial, provides a visual representation of the remaining power, adding a touch of whimsy to this otherwise technical marvel.

Armin Strom's commitment to performance is evident in the watch's upgraded oscillating frequency. The increased rate of 3.5 Hz (25,200 vph) ensures greater chronometric stability, allowing the One Week Manufacture Edition to keep pace with the demands of everyday life.

At the core of the One Week Manufacture Edition lies the ARM21 caliber, a manual-winding movement that showcases Armin Strom's unwavering commitment to horological excellence. This caliber is a symphony of engineering and artistry, where every component plays a vital role in the watch's performance and aesthetics.

The two mainspring barrels, positioned symmetrically on the dial, are the powerhouses of this movement. They work in tandem to deliver a remarkable seven-day power reserve, ensuring that the watch keeps ticking even after a week of inactivity. This extended power reserve is a testament to Armin Strom's dedication to creating timepieces that are not just beautiful but also functional.



One of the most captivating features of the ARM21 caliber is the conical power reserve indicator. Inspired by vintage pocket watches, this indicator adds a touch of whimsy to the watch's otherwise technical demeanor. As the power reserve diminishes, the mirror-polished cone gradually descends, providing a visual representation of the remaining energy. It's a small detail that speaks volumes about Armin Strom's attention to detail and passion for horological innovation.

The ARM21 caliber also boasts an impressive oscillating frequency of 3.5 Hz (25,200 vph), a significant upgrade from the previous generation of the One Week. This higher frequency enhances the watch's chronometric performance, ensuring that it keeps time with remarkable accuracy.

The openworked design of the One Week Manufacture Edition is a feast for the eyes. The dial, or rather the lack thereof, allows for an unobstructed view of the intricate movement within. This transparency reveals a mesmerizing dance of gears, springs, and levers, each component meticulously finished by hand. The anthracite PVD coating on the mainplate and bridges adds a touch of drama, creating a striking contrast against the polished steel components.



The faceted hour and minute hands, filled with Super-LumiNova, are perfectly positioned in the center of the dial, further enhancing the watch's aesthetic balance. The small seconds subdial at 9 o'clock, adorned with the brand's "AS" logo, is a subtle yet elegant detail that adds to the watch's overall appeal.

The One Week Manufacture Edition is housed in a 41mm stainless steel case, a material known for its durability and corrosion resistance. The case's sleek lines and ergonomic design ensure a comfortable fit on the wrist, while the sapphire crystal and case back provide a clear view of the movement from both sides.

The integrated steel bracelet, consisting of H-shaped satin-brushed and polished links, complements the case perfectly. The bracelet's double folding clasp ensures a secure fit, while the tapering design adds a touch of visual interest.

With only 100 pieces available worldwide, the One Week Manufacture Edition is a true collector's dream. Its exclusivity, coupled with its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design, makes it a highly sought-after timepiece.

The retail price of CHF 32,000 reflects the watch's rarity and the level of expertise that goes into its creation. This is not just a watch; it's an investment in a piece of horological history.



The Armin Strom One Week Manufacture Edition is more than just a watch; it's a testament to the brand's unwavering pursuit of excellence. It's a timepiece that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, craftsmanship and technology. It's a watch that tells a story – a story of a brand that dared to chart its own course and, in doing so, created a legacy of independence and horological artistry.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of luxury watches, the One Week Manufacture Edition is a timepiece that deserves your attention. It's a watch that will not only tell time but also tell a story – a story that will continue to unfold for generations to come.