The Art of Decoration: Why Armin Strom Watches Shine at Define Watches

Here at Define Watches, we’re passionate about bringing you the finest examples of Swiss watchmaking. And when it comes to meticulous attention to detail and stunning aesthetics, Armin Strom stands out as a true leader. Today, we want to delve into the world of Armin Strom decoration and showcase what makes their timepieces so unique.

1. Hand-Decoration: A 360° Approach to Excellence

Armin Strom is renowned for its commitment to open-worked watches. This distinctive style isn’t just about looks; it also serves a practical purpose. The meticulous 360° hand-decoration ensures a flawless and uniform surface, allowing for the seamless integration of bridges onto the main plate. But more importantly, this hand-finishing adds a human touch, a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship that goes into every Armin Strom timepiece.

2. Where Tradition Meets Innovation: The History Behind Decoration

The decorative techniques used by Armin Strom have deep roots in watchmaking history, dating back to pocket watches. These embellishments go beyond aesthetics; they were born out of necessity in an era before water-resistant watches.

• Humidity control: The meticulously polished angles around the bridges protected the movement from moisture. By acting as barriers, these polished surfaces effectively captured humidity, preventing it from infiltrating the delicate mechanisms within.
• Enhanced readability: The guilloché patterns on the dials, a technique invented by Abraham-Louis Breguet, were strategic for improving legibility. This specific design diffused light, minimising glare and making it easier to read the time, even in bright conditions.
• Dust defence: Finishing techniques like perlage (circular graining) and Geneva stripes served a dual purpose: decoration and dust management. These textured finishes trap dust particles, safeguarding the movement from their intrusion and ensuring optimal performance.

These historical embellishments perfectly exemplify the fusion of artistry and engineering in watchmaking. They demonstrate how aesthetics and functionality are interwoven to address practical challenges.

3. The Gentian Touch: A Secret Ingredient for a Superlative Finish

After the initial polishing, Armin Strom takes their finishing to the next level using a unique and traditional method. The stems of the gentian plant, hand-harvested annually at high altitudes in the Swiss Alps, are used for their remarkable ability to deliver an exceptionally smooth and refined finish. This commitment to preserving artisanal methods underscores Armin Strom’s dedication to creating timepieces that stand as enduring symbols of precision and refinement.

Meet Nicolas Huissoud, Armin Strom’s Watchmaking Expert

Nicolas Huissoud, an expert watchmaker at Armin Strom. Nicolas’ fascination with watches began in childhood, fueled by visits to watch retailers with his father. Unlike many, his interest wasn’t in brands, but in the inner workings of these intricate mechanisms. This passion led him to pursue watchmaking and ultimately connect with Armin Strom.

Nicolas highlights the challenges and rewards of watch decoration. He owns a Tribute 1 first edition, a timepiece he can proudly say was hand-finished by his colleagues. This firsthand experience allows him to capture stunning macro shots of Armin Strom watches, confident in the impeccable craftsmanship behind each detail.

When asked about the most interesting part of his job, Nicolas emphasises the opportunity to connect with collectors and create bespoke pieces. Seeing the joy and appreciation in their eyes when they receive their one-of-a-kind timepiece is an unparalleled experience.

Why Define Watches is Proud to Showcase Armin Strom

At Define Watches, we share Armin Strom’s belief that decoration is not just a finishing touch; it’s the heartbeat of their craftsmanship. We’re proud to offer these exceptional timepieces, meticulously hand-decorated by skilled artisans. With 97% of the movement crafted in-house, Armin Strom ensures the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Each timepiece is a true reflection of their dedication to the art of watchmaking, a testament to the passion and spirit that goes into every creation.

Visit Define Watches today to explore the exquisite collection of Armin Strom watches and discover the art of decoration that sets them apart.