RED PLANET
In keeping with its modern approach to traditional watchmaking, the Belgian brand is introducing a new self-winding watch that is entirely decked in red, from the dial to the strap.
While most watch brands are yielding to the appeal of green, Ressence is bucking the trend by imbuing its new watch in red. Indeed, the Type1 Slim Red is adorned with this vivid hue from the dial to the strap, like a glowing planet on the wrist. Faithful to the physiognomy unveiled by the Type1 in 2014, this version, whose production is limited in time, is however thinner, at 11mm versus 13, and more ergonomic with the perfect fusion between the casing and the attachments.
As enticing as a sun-ripened summer fruit and well protected by a large domed sapphire crystal, the dial displays its three small satellites spinning gracefully thanks to the Ressence Orbital Convex System (ROCS), a special mechanism, more modern and intuitive than a traditional watch face. The largest of this trio of islets indicates the hours, while the other two display the seconds and the days of the week. As for the minutes, they can be read thanks to the large white hand trimmed with a silvered border, slightly off-center that points to the perimeter of the dial.
In order to extend this pursuit of ergonomics, the 42mm diameter grade 5 titanium case, water resistant to a depth of 10m, is without a crown. Winding and setting of the watch are done on the back of the metal case thanks to a built-in handle that unfolds and turns.
The Type1 Slim Red is powered by an ETA 2892/A caliber, modified to incorporate the ROCS. There is a 4hz automatic movement that delivers 36 hours of power reserve when fully wound. It fastens to the wrist with a rubber strap that matches its scarlet dial and a pin buckle.
Price: CHF 16,800 pretax
By Sharmila Bertin