New: The Arabic Inspired Ressence Type 1 Slim DX2

In an industry predominantly inspired by the spirit of the past, Ressence is a breath of fresh air with its modern approach to watchmaking. Technically stunning solutions and a minimalist approach to design define the brand’s pieces. We generally think of stylish black-and-white executions that bring the vision of Ressence to life. But the new Type 1 Slim DX2 developed with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons shows the incredible versatility of Ressence’s approach to design. It’s a versatility that results in a stunning new timepiece.

Ressence is one of those brands that is universally praised by watch enthusiasts and journalists alike. For good reasons, I might add. The brand carved out its niche in the watch world. It’s a niche that I feel very much at home in. The brand’s combination of great technical solutions and modern design is right up my alley. Add the fact that all of Ressence’s watches are available in black with contrasting white details, and I’ll sit in the front row at every release. I have explained this in multiple articles, but I naturally gravitate towards black. And not just with watches. With clothing, shoes, and watches alike, the dark side of the Force is strong with me.

More is more

Having said that, it doesn’t always have to be black. Not in the least bit. That’s also why I love seeing Ressence watches in different color executions. Some great examples are the Type 3 in white or the Type 1 Slim in beautiful dark blue. The more colorful executions of the brand’s watches show the incredible versatility of its design approach. Proof of that comes once more with the all-new Ressence Type 1 Slim DX2. The design approach and the colors show a completely new aesthetic to the Type 1 Slim that looks incredible. As a result, this might be one of the spectacular releases of the year.

The new Ressence Type 1 Slim DX2 was developed in collaboration with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons. It’s the second collaboration timepiece the companies have worked on including the Ressence Type 1DXB from 2019. The new Type 1 Slim DX2 celebrates the 50th anniversary of the United Arab Emirates, and 25 pieces will be available for purchase. It is based on the normal Ressence Type 1 Slim but comes equipped with a new, specially developed dial. Arabic geometric patterns inspire the sand-colored marvel. These patterns give the watch a truly unique presence that plays with light reflections and creates new depths.

The Ressence Type 1 Slim

The Ressence Type 1 Slim debuted at SIHH 2019 as an evolution of the first generation Type 1. As Balazs explained in the introduction article, the Type 1 Slim features a slimmer case compared to its bigger brother introduced in 2014. The new Ressence Type 1 Slim DX2 is based on the regular Type 1 Slim models, so it features the same 41mm polished Grade 5 titanium case that is 11mm thick. The case is milled from one block of titanium and features beautifully integrated lugs.

Like the other Type 1 Slim models, this new Type 1 Slim DX2 also features Ressence’s unique ROCS 1 (Ressence Orbital Convex System) caliber. This patented display module features a main disc with three sub-dials, or satellites, that are constantly in motion. The three satellites display the hours, seconds, and days of the week. The rotating central part of the dial with its large white hand indicates the minutes on the engraved, peripheral 60-minute track. But this time around, it’s not just any dial.

The unique dial

The dial of the Type 1 Slim DX2 is the absolute eye-catcher here. The convex, German Silver dial features the three satellites mentioned above with a sand-colored PVD finish. By creating unique facets, the dial draws inspiration from Arabic geometric patterns. This creates a stunning depth and unique play of light reflections. The level of detail is extraordinary, and combined with the unique color; it creates one of the best dials I have seen in a while.

The pattern is engraved with diamond burs, and by using different angles and directions, they create a unique effect in the sunlight. The hands and indices are executed in white and filled with Super-LumiNova. It creates a layered dial, defined by its pattern, but it lets you read the time perfectly if needed. But let’s be honest. With a dial like this, reading the time takes a backseat.

The ROCS 1 display

The patented ROCS 1 (Ressence Orbital Convex System) caliber inside the case is based on an ETA 2892/A. It is highly modified to create its unique visual display system. The automatic movement features 212 parts, operates at 28,800vph, has 40 jewels, and has a power reserve of 36 hours. The ROCS 1 features 27 gears that are created from 107 parts. The gears calculate the seconds, hours, and day. Only the minutes are taken as a reference from the movement. The slim profile of the watch is achieved by placing the winding and time-setting system on the case back, which, in turn, is operated by a lever.

Final thoughts

The Ressence Type 1 Slim DX2 comes with two different straps. The first is a tan-colored grained calf strap, and the second is an olive green rubber strap that both come with a polished grade 5 titanium buckle. The Type 1 Slim DX2 will be limited to 25 numbered pieces that will retail for CHF 22,500 (excl. tax).

By now, you probably know I love this new Ressence Type 1 Slim DX2. It perfectly shows that Ressence’s minimalist design approach leaves a lot of room for variety and creates stunning results. The combination of the unique technical approach and the stunning execution of the dial proves to be a winner. I do not doubt that all 25 pieces will sell out instantly. I love what Ressence and Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons have come up with for their second collaboration piece. For me, it is one of the absolute best timepieces of the year.

For more information, please visit Ressence Watches.