The watch world is no stranger to collaborations. Brands pair up with athletes, celebrities, and even other brands to create unique, limited-edition pieces that capture the essence of both collaborators. But every so often, a collaboration transcends the typical marketing exercise and becomes something truly special. The
Ressence x Shantell Martin TYPE 1 SHA is one such collaboration. It's a watch that not only tells time but also tells a story – a story of life, joy, and the freedom of expression.
Ressence, the brainchild of industrial designer Benoît Mintiens, has always been a bit of a rebel in the watchmaking world. Founded in 2010, the brand quickly gained recognition for its unconventional approach to horology, challenging the established norms and pushing the boundaries of design and technology. Mintiens, with his background in industrial design, brought a fresh perspective to the world of watches, focusing on minimalist aesthetics and innovative mechanics. Ressence watches are instantly recognizable by their unique dial design, where time is displayed on flush, rotating discs, eliminating traditional hands and creating a mesmerizing visual experience. This signature design element, known as the Ressence Orbital Convex System (ROCS), is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation and its ability to seamlessly blend form and function.
Courtesy of Ressence
Shantell Martin, on the other hand, is a force of nature in the contemporary art world. Her signature black-and-white line drawings, often created in spontaneous live performances, explore themes of identity, self-expression, and the interconnectedness of all things. Martin's work has graced everything from massive murals at iconic locations like the World Trade Center Oculus to collaborations with brands like Vitra and Max Mara. Her art is a celebration of the human spirit, a constant reminder to embrace the present moment and find joy in the journey.
Bringing these two distinct creative forces together might seem unexpected at first, but the synergy is undeniable. Both Ressence and Shantell Martin share a passion for minimalism, fluidity, and a deep respect for the creative process. This shared ethos is beautifully embodied in the TYPE 1 SHA, a watch that serves as a canvas for Martin's distinctive artistry.
Courtesy of Ressence
The TYPE 1 SHA, based on Ressence's TYPE 1 Squared model, features a stark white dial that provides the perfect backdrop for Martin's free-flowing black lines. The absence of traditional hands, a hallmark of Ressence's design language, allows Martin's art to take center stage. Her signature line dances across the dial, weaving a narrative of joy, spontaneity, and the simple reminder to "enjoy life." The watch itself becomes a work of art, a dynamic and ever-changing reflection of the wearer's own journey through time.
Imagine strapping this watch on your wrist. The smooth, cool titanium case feels substantial yet comfortable. The white dial, framed by the clean lines of the case, draws your eye in. Martin's artwork, a mesmerizing dance of black lines, seems to come alive as the discs beneath rotate, constantly shifting and evolving. It's a watch that demands attention, not through flashy embellishments or complications, but through its sheer simplicity and the power of Martin's art. It's a conversation starter, a piece that invites curiosity and sparks dialogue.
But the TYPE 1 SHA is more than just a beautiful object. It's a symbol of the creative spirit, a testament to the power of collaboration, and a reminder to embrace the present moment. It's a watch that encourages you to live fully, to find joy in the everyday, and to express yourself authentically.
Courtesy of Ressence
This unique timepiece is not just destined for a collector's wrist; it's also a vehicle for supporting the arts. The TYPE 1 SHA will be auctioned off as part of the TimeForArt initiative, a biennial event that benefits contemporary artists and cultural organizations. This collaboration between Ressence and Shantell Martin is not only a celebration of art and horology but also a contribution to the broader creative community.
At first glance, the TYPE 1 SHA might appear deceptively simple. The minimalist aesthetic, devoid of traditional hands and indices, gives the impression of effortless timekeeping. However, beneath the surface lies a complex and innovative mechanism that redefines how we interact with time.
The watch is driven by Ressence's patented ROCS 1.3 (Ressence Orbital Convex System) module, a marvel of micro-engineering that replaces conventional hands with a series of rotating discs. These discs, arranged in a mesmerizing orbital display, indicate the hours, minutes, seconds, and even the day of the week. The absence of hands not only allows for a unique visual experience but also enhances legibility. Time is read intuitively, like words on a page, rather than deciphering the position of hands on a traditional dial.
Courtesy of Ressence
The ROCS 1.3 module is powered by a customized 2892 base caliber, a reliable and robust automatic movement known for its accuracy and longevity. This movement, with its 36-hour power reserve, ensures that the watch keeps ticking even when not worn. The caseback winding and day/time setting mechanism further simplifies the user experience, eliminating the need for a traditional crown and maintaining the smooth, uninterrupted lines of the case.
Speaking of the case, the TYPE 1 SHA is housed in a 41mm grade 5 titanium case, a material prized for its lightweight yet durable properties. The pearlescent finish of the titanium adds a subtle sheen that complements the white dial and black artwork. The double-domed sapphire crystal, with its anti-reflective coating, provides a clear view of the dial while also protecting it from scratches and impacts.
The watch's minimalist design extends to its strap and buckle. A black calf leather strap, with its understated elegance, complements the monochrome aesthetic of the watch. The strap is secured by a pearlescent grade 5 titanium ardillon buckle, echoing the case material and adding a touch of refinement.
Courtesy of Ressence
But what truly sets the TYPE 1 SHA apart is the seamless integration of Shantell Martin's artwork. The white dial, devoid of any numerals or indices, serves as a blank canvas for Martin's signature black lines. These lines, applied with a permanent marker, dance across the dial, creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. As the discs beneath rotate, Martin's artwork shifts and evolves, transforming the watch face into a mesmerizing spectacle. The words "enjoy life," inscribed in Martin's distinctive style, serve as a constant reminder to embrace the present moment and find joy in the journey.
The TYPE 1 SHA is not just a watch; it's a wearable work of art, a testament to the power of collaboration and the beauty of minimalist design. It's a watch that speaks to the soul, encouraging us to live authentically and find joy in the everyday.