Prepare to be captivated by the latest masterpiece from Armin Strom – the Tribute² Aurum Edition. This isn’t just a watch; it’s a bold statement of craftsmanship and artistry that challenges the very essence of what a dress watch can be. Known for their intricately decorated, openworked in-house movements, Armin Strom made waves in 2021 when they ventured into the dress watch category with the surprisingly restrained Tribute 1. But here’s where it gets intriguing: while the Tribute collection retained the brand’s DNA, it embraced simplicity and discretion, notably featuring almost entirely closed dials. Fast forward to 2024, and Armin Strom, in collaboration with Horomariobro, decided to flip the script entirely. They unveiled the Tribute² Copper Edition, a daring move that exposed the hidden mechanics beneath the dial and elevated the decoration to unprecedented heights. Now, this evolution returns as the Tribute² Aurum Edition, a stunning addition to the brand’s own collection.
At first glance, the Tribute² Aurum Edition shares much of its technical DNA and design philosophy with the Tribute 1. The case, a refined and compact expression of Armin Strom’s identity, retains the signature ‘lip’ at 6 o’clock, while its 38mm diameter and sub-10mm thickness ensure a sleek, wearable profile. The angular lugs, polished case top, and brushed flanks strike a perfect balance between elegance and sharpness. Sapphire crystals on both sides and 50m water resistance add practicality to its allure. And this is the part most people miss – the crown at 2 o’clock isn’t just a design quirk; it’s a thoughtful touch that enhances both originality and comfort.
But here’s where it gets controversial: the Tribute² Aurum Edition takes the collection’s contemporary aesthetic to a whole new level by embracing an openworked design that reveals more of the movement than ever before. The base of the dial, which doubles as the main plate of the movement, is crafted from brass and gold-plated, earning the ‘Aurum’ moniker. Finished by hand using the rare tremblage technique, it boasts a rich, textured surface that demands attention. Paired with a smoked grey sub-dial and gold-colored hands and markers, it’s a visual feast. Yet, this raises a question: does exposing so much of the movement’s inner workings compromise the subtlety of a dress watch, or does it redefine it entirely? We’ll leave that for you to decide in the comments.
Technically, the watch is a marvel. The motor barrel, typically concealed in the Tribute 1, is now fully exposed, showcasing hand-polished bevelled spokes and a black-polished, bevelled steel finger bridge. Even elements of the kinetic chain, usually hidden, are now on full display, adding a discreet yet technical allure. Powering this masterpiece is the hand-wound Calibre AMW21, entirely developed and manufactured in-house. Despite its compact size, it delivers an impressive 100-hour power reserve, thanks to its innovative motor barrel construction. Operating at 25,200 vibrations per hour, it features a variable inertia balance wheel and a flat overcoil spring, supported by the iconic system 78 finger bridge. The movement’s finishing is equally breathtaking, with Geneva stripes, hand-polished bevels, and a three-dimensional escapement wheel bridge that’s a joy to behold. And in true Armin Strom fashion, the movement is assembled twice for unparalleled precision.
Presented on a taupe Epsom strap with matching stitching, the Tribute² Aurum Edition is a limited run of just 10 pieces, priced at CHF 27,000. Is it worth the investment? That depends on whether you see it as a watch or a wearable work of art. Either way, it’s a conversation starter that’s sure to divide opinions. What’s your take? Let us know below!
