Prepare to be mesmerized by the Ressence Type 1 Round RG, a watch that's more than just a timepiece - it's a work of art!
Belgian industrial designer Benoît Mintiens introduced the world to Ressence and its innovative 'beyond hands' display at Baselworld 2010. The brand's patented Orbital Convex System (ROCS) powers revolving sub-dials, creating a captivating display where time orbits the domed dial, reminiscent of planets circling the Sun.
The crownless Type 1, Ressence's flagship model, has evolved over the years, and in 2023, we're introduced to the Type 1 Round. For Dubai Watch Week, Ressence presents a limited edition of this classic with a warm, rose gold-plated dial, a true collector's item.
Ressence has a special connection with the UAE, having created several exclusive editions for Ahmed Seddiqi, the country's leading watch and jewelry retailer. From the Type 1 DXB with its openworked, sand-colored dial to the Type 1 Slim DX2, featuring Islamic geometric motifs, and the more recent Type 1 DX3 with its stunning cloisonné-style dial, each piece tells a unique story.
The Type 1 Round RG stays true to Ressence's design philosophy, with a sleek, pebble-shaped case that flows seamlessly. Crafted from titanium, its 42.7mm diameter and 11mm thickness make for a comfortable fit, despite its compact size. The sandblasted case middle and wire lugs create a beautiful contrast with the polished bezel, while the double-domed sapphire crystal enhances the case's graceful lines.
The dial is a masterpiece in itself. Rose gold-plated German silver with a sunray finish, it exudes a rich, coppery warmth. Three eccentric discs, displaying hours, seconds, and days of the week, are framed in silver with snailed interiors, creating a unique contrast. The minutes are displayed on the peripheral chapter ring, following a familiar clock layout. All indications are engraved and filled with Super-LumiNova, with green dashes on the day counter and 60-minute marker for a pop of color.
The patented ROCS 1.3 module, powered by a customized automatic ETA 2892 base caliber, drives the discs' circular movement. With a frequency of 28,800vph and a 36-hour power reserve, this movement is both precise and efficient.
The smooth, rounded contours of the case are uninterrupted by a crown; instead, a retractable lever on the caseback winds the movement and adjusts the settings. The watch is paired with a light grey suede strap and a pin buckle, completing the elegant look.
Limited to just 70 pieces, the Type 1 RG retails for CHF 18,150 (excl. taxes). A true masterpiece, it's a testament to Ressence's innovative spirit and attention to detail.
And here's where it gets controversial: is this watch more than just a beautiful design, or does it offer something truly unique in terms of functionality? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a discussion!
