In the world of horology, innovation is the lifeblood that keeps the industry ticking. It's the relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries, of finding new ways to measure and perceive time. And few brands embody this spirit of innovation quite like Ball Watch Company. From its inception, Ball has been synonymous with precision, durability, and a pioneering ethos. This legacy is boldly carried forward with the introduction of the Roadmaster M Model A, a watch that doesn't just tell time, but sings it.
The Roadmaster M Model A is not just another timepiece; it's a testament to Ball's unwavering commitment to technical advancement. This commitment is deeply rooted in the company's history. Founded in 1891 by Webb C. Ball, the company's origins lie in the aftermath of a tragic train collision in Kipton, Ohio. Tasked with establishing accurate timekeeping standards for the American railroad industry, Webb C. Ball revolutionized railway safety, ensuring the precise coordination of train movements across the nation. This dedication to accuracy and dependability has remained at the core of Ball's identity ever since.
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The Roadmaster collection itself is a tribute to the individuals who ensure the smooth operation of railway infrastructure. Each watch in this series is a robust tool watch, built to withstand the rigors of daily wear while offering exceptional functionality. The Model A, however, elevates the collection to new heights, embodying the pinnacle of Ball's watchmaking prowess.
One of the defining features of the Model A is its alarm function, a complication that holds a special place in the world of horology. While alarm watches are not new, Ball has approached this complication with its characteristic innovative spirit. Traditional mechanical alarms often produce a rather lackluster sound, akin to a cricket's chirp. The Model A, however, boasts the patented AlarmMATIC® system, a groundbreaking mechanism that delivers a sound as clear and resonant as a school bell.
This remarkable acoustic achievement is the result of meticulous engineering and a deep understanding of sound mechanics. Instead of the typical dome-shaped gong, Ball has employed a ring-shaped metal gong encased in a specialized polymer. This dual-material construction not only produces a crisper, louder chime but also serves as an Amortiser® anti-shock system, protecting the delicate movement from impacts. The hammer, meticulously crafted from a single piece of metal, strikes the gong with a precisely calculated frequency and force, further enhancing the quality of the alarm's sound.
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But the Model A's ingenuity doesn't stop at its sound. The watch is powered by the BALL Manufacture Caliber RRM7379, an automatic movement with two mainsprings: one dedicated to timekeeping and the other to powering the alarm function. Simply wearing the watch keeps both mainsprings wound, ensuring uninterrupted operation. The alarm can be set in 5-minute intervals using the crown at 4 o'clock, which also serves to manually wind the alarm mainspring and engage or disengage the alarm.
The dial of the Model A is a study in understated sophistication. Beneath a sapphire crystal, the black dial features baton-shaped hour markers filled with Ball's signature micro gas tubes. These self-powered tubes emit a vibrant glow in low-light conditions, ensuring legibility at any hour. A subtle rainbow motif adds a touch of visual interest, while the 24-hour ceramic bezel allows for easy tracking of a third time zone.
The Model A's case is crafted from 904L stainless steel, a material renowned for its exceptional corrosion resistance and durability. Measuring 41mm in diameter, the case strikes a balance between robustness and wearability, making it suitable for a variety of wrist sizes. The lugs are drilled with screws, a detail that not only enhances the watch's rugged aesthetic but also provides added security for the bracelet.
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At the heart of the Model A beats the BALL Manufacture Caliber RRM7379, an automatic movement that exemplifies Swiss watchmaking at its finest. This caliber is not merely a timekeeper; it's a micro-engineered marvel, meticulously crafted to deliver unparalleled accuracy and functionality. With a remarkable accuracy range of -4 to +6 seconds per day, the RRM7379 ensures that you're always on time, no matter the demands of your schedule.
One of the standout features of this movement is its dual mainspring system. Unlike traditional automatic movements that rely on a single mainspring to power all functions, the RRM7379 employs two separate mainsprings. The first mainspring is dedicated to the core timekeeping function, ensuring consistent and accurate timekeeping. The second mainspring is solely responsible for powering the alarm function, guaranteeing a robust and reliable alarm sound without compromising the watch's timekeeping accuracy.
The alarm itself is a marvel of mechanical ingenuity. The patented AlarmMATIC® system, as discussed in part one, delivers a crisp, clear sound that's a far cry from the feeble chirping often associated with mechanical alarm watches. This is achieved through a combination of innovative design elements, including a ring-shaped gong and a meticulously calibrated hammer. The result is an alarm that's not just audible but also pleasing to the ear, a subtle yet effective way to stay on schedule.
Beyond its impressive alarm function, the Model A also boasts a GMT complication, allowing you to track a second time zone with ease. The GMT hand can be quickly and independently adjusted via the crown, making it effortless to adapt to changing time zones. This, combined with the 24-hour ceramic bezel, enables you to monitor three different time zones simultaneously, making the Model A an ideal companion for frequent travelers or those with international connections.
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The Model A's dial is a masterpiece of minimalist design, prioritizing legibility and functionality without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. The black dial provides a stark contrast to the luminous hour markers and hands, ensuring excellent visibility in all lighting conditions. The hour markers themselves are filled with Ball's signature micro gas tubes, tiny vials of tritium gas that emit a constant glow, requiring no external light source to charge. This technology, pioneered by Ball, ensures that the time is always readable, even in the darkest of environments.
The watch's case is crafted from 904L stainless steel, a material chosen for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and lustrous finish. This high-grade steel is more commonly found in luxury watches and high-end industrial applications, underscoring the Model A's commitment to quality and durability. Measuring 41mm in diameter and 15.2mm thick, the case strikes a perfect balance between presence on the wrist and everyday wearability. The case back is transparent sapphire crystal, allowing you to admire the intricate workings of the RRM7379 movement.
Protecting the dial is a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, ensuring clarity and minimizing glare. The crown, located at the 4 o'clock position, is screwed-down, providing enhanced water resistance. The Model A boasts a water resistance rating of 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
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The watch is secured to the wrist with a tapered stainless steel bracelet, featuring a folding buckle for a secure and comfortable fit. The bracelet's design complements the case's refined aesthetic, creating a cohesive and stylish look.
Available for pre-order starting October 31st, 2024, the Ball Roadmaster M Model A is a limited edition of 333 pieces, making it a highly sought-after collector's item. With a retail price of US$6,299, the Model A represents exceptional value for a watch of this caliber, offering a unique blend of technical sophistication, rugged durability, and refined design.