Armin Strom Tribute 1 Black

We've long been fans of Armin Strom here at WV, but up until this point in time have not had the opportunity to sell one. Thankfully the wait was worth it, and the first watch from the brand we're listing is one of our favourites; the Armin Strom Signature 1.

For those not familiar with Armin Strom, their modern era began in 2009 with the founding of their own manufacturer in Biel, Switzerland. With a focus on creating watches with mechanics on display, they wished to create watches their own way and not follow the conventions of typical Swiss watchmaking, while also respecting the past. It was a big move to dedicate so much resource into creating their own manufacture so early on in their journey, but founders Serge Michel and Claude Greisler clearly thought this was what was required to create the watches they wanted to create, with 98% of their movement components manufacturers in-house which is extremely impressive when you think they employ around 45 people. This is what independent watchmaking is all about.

This particular reference is known as the Tribute 1, and is their time-only reference. Let's start with the case, which measures in at 38mm in diameter, and just 9.38mm thick, with a lug to lug under 45mm. It is highly detailed in its constructions, with shaped lugs that are strong, yet sleek and combine with the vertically brushed and polished case to convey a watch that while of a dress-watch size, is more of a daily watch not restricted to formal situations. The polished bezel is quite thin, leaving a lot of room for the dial, which makes it appear perhaps a millemetre or two larger than it is on the wrist. 

Within this case lies a stunning off-centre sub-dial for the time, which is surrounded by a grained black finish. The star of the show is perhaps the highly finished bridge which holds the mainspring barrel. This barrel and spring store enough power at full wind to keep it running for an impressive 100 hours thanks to its perfect positioning within the movement, and the unique design of the motor barrel.

Flip it over and you'll find the rest of the in-house movement staring back through a sapphire crystal. This is their hand finished AMW21 manual wind, featuring a traditional German 3/4 plate with vibrant Geneva Stripes, polished countersinks, hand polished bevels, and internal angles in the finger bridge. Like Lange, each movement is assembled twice, and it is not only technically capable but very beautiful.

Finishing it off is a supple' gator strap with steel deployant.

This particular piece was first sold in 2022 and presents in TZ 'Good' condition. The case itself shows barely any wear, with some minor scratches on the brushed surfaces, and some small marks on the bezel. The reaosn for the 'Good' rather than 'Near Mint' grading is the presence of some very small nicks on the upper elft side fo the bezel near 9 on the sub-dial, and a ding on the corner of the lower left lug which can't be seen when on the wrist. Please see images for full condition details.

The strap is in near-new condition, and the buckle shows minor marks.

Currently keeping COSC time when measured dial-up on a timegrapher, with all functions operating as they should.

Comes with outer box, inner box, warranty card, instruction booklet, loupe, and travel case. Please note the outer box shows staining and some ripping on its corners, and the inner box shows some minor deterioration on the cushion and surrounds.

Limited to 100 pieces, these retailed for $25,000 AUD which was a bit of a bargain, but even more so on the secondary market. You won't get more watch for the money than this.

Brand: Armin Strom

Reference: Tribute 1 Black

Year: 2022

Case Material: Steel

Case details: 38mm

Bracelet: Armin Strom 'gator with Deployant

Movement: AMW21 Manual Wind

Dial: Black

Paraphernalia: Outer box, inner box, warranty card, instruction booklet, loupe, and travel case.

TZ Grading: Good

Watch Vault utilises the TZ grading system. Please see below for details.