Introduction
Founded in 1967 and transformed into a fully integrated manufacture in 2009, Armin Strom has established itself as one of independent watchmaking's foremost technical innovators. With every movement designed, developed and assembled in-house, the Swiss manufacture has built its reputation on exposing the mechanics of its watches while simultaneously advancing them. Rather than creating skeletonised watches simply for aesthetics, Armin Strom engineers its movements so that their architecture becomes an integral part of the design, showcasing genuine mechanical innovation on the dial side.
First introduced in 2019, the Gravity Equal Force became the world's first automatic wristwatch to combine a stop-work declutch mechanism with a Geneva cross integrated into the mainspring barrel, delivering consistent torque throughout the movement's entire power reserve. Offered here is the Ultimate Sapphire, introduced in 2021 and dating to 2023, which elevates that concept through a transparent sapphire time display suspended above a hand-guilloché mainplate crafted by master engraver Kari Voutilainen. Combining exceptional chronometric innovation with one of the most visually engaging dial layouts in modern independent watchmaking, the Gravity Equal Force perfectly encapsulates Armin Strom's engineering-led philosophy.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box, warranty and booklets
Est. value range
$15,000 – $25,000
The Details
Brand
Armin Strom
Dimensions
41mm
Model
Gravity Equal Force Ultimate Sapphire
Movement
Automatic Armin Strom calibre ASB19
Reference
ST21-GEF.SA
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
2023
Condition
Like new
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Box, warranty and booklets
Dial Color
Sapphire over grey guilloché
THE DIAL
The Ultimate Sapphire showcases one of the most distinctive displays in contemporary independent watchmaking. A transparent sapphire hours-and-minutes subdial appears to float above the movement, revealing the hand-guilloché "grain d'orge" base plate engraved by Kari Voutilainen beneath. The exposed bridges, wheels and barrel transform the movement into the dial itself, blending traditional decorative craftsmanship with modern mechanical architecture.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The 41mm stainless steel case reflects Armin Strom's contemporary design language, pairing sharply faceted lugs with a slim polished bezel that maximises visibility of the movement beneath. Measuring just 12.65mm thick despite its complex architecture, the case provides an ideal showcase for the suspended sapphire display while remaining exceptionally wearable.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall like-new condition. The case shows only light signs of wear or handling. Comes with inner and outer boxes, warranty card, booklets and spare strap.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
The Gravity Equal Force represents everything that makes modern independent watchmaking so compelling. Rather than simply showcasing beautiful finishing, Armin Strom has developed genuinely innovative solutions to age-old chronometric challenges while presenting them in a manner that invites the wearer to appreciate every mechanical interaction. Combining patented engineering, exceptional hand craftsmanship and unmistakable aesthetics, the Ultimate Sapphire is one of the defining independent watches of the modern era.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
