Celebrating Artisanal Watchmaking: A Close Look at the Armin Strom Tribute 2 Copper Edition
In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary independent watchmaking, few brands combine artisanal traditions with mechanical innovation as elegantly as Armin Strom. Their newest release, the Tribute 2 Copper Edition, embodies precisely this ethos, bringing forward traditional craftsmanship methods while showcasing innovative mechanical elements.
At first glance, the watch captivates with its distinct copper-hued mainplate. This component is especially notable due to a technique called grattage, rarely seen in contemporary watchmaking due to its demanding nature. Developed initially for achieving precise flatness in mechanical engineering, the grattage method involves carefully scraping the material by hand to create subtle textures reminiscent of fine brushstrokes. Applied here decoratively, the mainplate’s copper-coloured PVD coating enhances the resulting pattern, making every one of the ten pieces distinct.
Another striking feature is the skeletonised motor barrel, prominently displayed on the dial side of the watch. This barrel is not just a visual delight; it represents an ingenious engineering choice by Armin Strom. Unlike traditional barrels, here the arbor rotates around the mainspring itself, increasing efficiency and saving valuable space. This innovation enables a substantial 100-hour power reserve—a remarkable achievement for a watch of such intricate design.
Adding further depth, the Tribute 2 Copper Edition features an offset dial in fumé grey, producing a gentle gradient from vibrant centre highlights to darker outer edges. A polished steel ring, bevelled meticulously by hand, elegantly frames this dial, accentuating its sophisticated aesthetics. The hands and indexes, coated in rich 18K 5N rose gold, inject a refined warmth to the watch’s overall palette.
The AMW21 calibre powering this timepiece is a testament to Armin Strom’s in-house expertise. Each movement part receives painstaking hand finishing, from the black-polished steel bridge holding the barrel, to the immaculate three-quarter bridge visible through the sapphire case back. Such intricate finishing, including circular graining, Geneva stripes, and finely bevelled edges, reflects a dedication to haute horology rarely matched today.
Special mention should also be given to the subtle details, such as the crown placement at 2 o’clock, enhancing the watch’s unique asymmetry and ergonomic appeal. Additionally, the “Horomariobro x Armin Strom” logo engraved at the back acknowledges a celebrated figure among watch enthusiasts, whose passion for beautifully decorated movements has influenced Armin Strom’s innovative decoration approach.
Limited to merely ten pieces worldwide, the Tribute 2 Copper Edition epitomises exclusivity. But beyond rarity, this watch offers collectors and enthusiasts a profound appreciation for the synergy of traditional craftsmanship and modern mechanical ingenuity. It showcases the very best of independent watchmaking, offering meticulous attention to detail and unwavering passion for the horological artform.
In short, the Armin Strom Tribute 2 Copper Edition exemplifies why enthusiasts cherish independent watchmakers—not merely for their rarity but for their enduring commitment to craft, innovation, and storytelling through watchmaking.
