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Arnold & Son presents two new evocative versions of its ultra-thin HM model, featuring dials crafted from Namibian pietersite. Often called the "stone of storms," this decorative mineral belongs to the chalcedony family and was first discovered by Sid Pieters in the early 1960s. Each unique dial displays delicate, swirling patterns that recall the turbulent skies and foaming waves of Cornwall, the English birthplace of founder John Arnold. This design pays tribute to the ingenuity of the legendary watchmaker while celebrating the spirit of those who maintain their course in a challenging world.

The designation "HM" was intentionally chosen to reflect the watch's focus on displaying only hours and minutes, while simultaneously serving as a historical nod to the British Royal Navy. In naval tradition, HM stands for "His or Her Majesty’s," a title that appeared in the 17th century and was later formalized as HMS. By transposing this reference to watchmaking, Arnold & Son connects the precision of modern horology with England's maritime history, specifically the era when John Arnold’s marine chronometers enabled the exploration of new lands.

Encased in a choice of 18-carat red gold or stainless steel, the HM Pietersite is a masterpiece of elegance and restraint. The case measures a refined 39.5 mm in diameter with a remarkably slim profile of just 7.82 mm. To complement the dreamlike, diaphanous patterns of the pietersite dial, the timepiece is paired with a matte ink-blue alligator leather strap and a traditional pin buckle crafted from the same metal as the case. These limited editions are produced in extremely small quantities, with only 8 pieces available in red gold and 18 in steel.

At the heart of this timepiece lies the ultra-thin, in-house A&S1001 manual-winding calibre. Visible through a sapphire crystal case back, the movement is a showcase of luxury finishing, featuring a rhodium-plated main plate with circular graining and bridges adorned with radiating Côtes de Genève. Despite its slender height of only 2.70 mm, the movement offers exceptional performance with a generous 90-hour power reserve. Every detail, from the snail-finished wheels to the blued screws with polished heads, reflects the most exacting standards of Swiss watchmaking.

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Armin Strom, the independent Swiss watchmaker renowned for its openworked designs and mechanical innovation, proudly unveils two striking new additions to its System 78 collection: the Orbit Lime Green and Orbit Ice Blue.

These limited edition timepieces—each restricted to just 20 pieces worldwide—introduce vibrant new fumé dials that blend bold aesthetics with technical mastery. The Lime Green model radiates energy and modernity, while the Ice Blue version offers a serene and sophisticated presence. Both dials feature a gradient effect that transitions from vivid color at the center to deep black at the edges, enhancing the visual depth of the openworked design.

A World-First Date Display on Demand

At the heart of both models lies the Armin Strom Manufacture Caliber ASS20, the world’s first movement to feature a date display on a ceramic bezel that appears only when activated. A pusher at 10 o’clock engages the date hand, which points to the current date and advances automatically at midnight. A second press returns the hand to its neutral position, offering a playful yet practical complication powered by a column-wheel mechanism.

The movement also incorporates Armin Strom’s patented Equal Force Barrel, delivering consistent energy for a stable 72-hour power reserve.

Haute Horology Craftsmanship

Each Orbit model is meticulously hand-finished at Armin Strom’s Manufacture in Biel/Bienne, employing traditional techniques such as anglage, perlage, and circular graining. The off-center dial is paired with rhodium-coated hands enhanced with Super-LumiNova®, ensuring legibility and elegance. The watches are housed in a stainless steel case with a fixed ceramic bezel and come with a matching bracelet featuring a double-folding clasp.

The Science of Movement

Founded in 1967 and revitalized in 2009, Armin Strom continues to push the boundaries of horological innovation. Every timepiece is designed, developed, and assembled in-house, reflecting the brand’s commitment to transparency, craftsmanship, and mechanical excellence.

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Drawing inspiration from the natural beauty and architectural heritage of Burgdorf, Armin Strom introduces the Tribute 1 Sandstein, a limited edition timepiece that blends Swiss tradition with modern refinement. With only 50 pieces available globally, this elegant watch pays tribute to the region’s iconic sandstone and the brand’s artisanal roots.

Encased in a 38 mm stainless steel case with alternating brushed and polished finishes, the Tribute 1 Sandstein features a warm sand-toned off-centre dial adorned with a grain d’orge guilloché pattern and Roman numerals. A frosted subdial and matching sand Alcantara strap complete the harmonious design.

At its heart beats the in-house Caliber AMW21, a hand-wound movement offering an impressive 100-hour power reserve. The visible motor barrel, held by a mirror-polished finger bridge, adds a modern technical flair while honoring traditional Swiss watchmaking values.

Through sapphire crystals on both sides, the movement reveals Armin Strom’s signature hand-finishing: hand-bevelled bridges, black-polished screws, Geneva stripes, and circular graining. Each watch is assembled twice, ensuring mechanical precision and aesthetic integrity.  

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