Ressence, known for its distinctive pebble-shaped cases and planetary-inspired time display, has once again pushed the boundaries of horology with its latest creation, the Type 9 IKE. This remarkable timepiece is the fruit of a collaboration with Japanese artist Terumasa Ikeda, whose artistic vision transforms the watch dial into a mesmerizing, otherworldly spectacle. The Type 9, celebrated for its minimalist aesthetic and comfortable proportions, serves as the perfect canvas for Ikeda's intricate designs, making this limited edition a true convergence of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary artistry.

Ressence and Terumasa Ikeda Unveil the Type 9 IKE: A Fusion of Art and Horology

In a groundbreaking fusion of ancient techniques and modern design, Ressence has partnered with Japanese lacquer artist Terumasa Ikeda to introduce the exquisite Type 9 IKE. This limited-edition watch, set to be released on February 26, 2026, showcases Ikeda's unique approach to art, where traditional Japanese raden (mother-of-pearl inlay) and urushi (lacquer) techniques are employed to render futuristic, digital-inspired motifs. The result is a sci-fi composition that graces the Type 9's dynamic dial, evoking imagery from a distant galaxy.

The Type 9 IKE features a compact 39mm titanium case, finished with a sleek black DLC coating, enhancing its ergonomic, crown-less "flying saucer" profile. Measuring only 11mm in thickness, the watch is designed for comfortable wear on either wrist. At its heart lies Ressence's patented Orbital Convex System (ROCS), where a domed dial completes a full rotation every hour. A prominent hand tracks the minutes along an external black DLC-coated bezel, while a smaller disc for the hours gracefully revolves every twelve hours, creating a perpetual, harmonious dance of time.

Ikeda's artistic brilliance shines through on the convex dial, where a series of vibrant, fragmented lines radiate concentrically from the hour hand's axis. Hour and minute indicators are subtly highlighted with small, colorful squares, adding to the watch's distinctive appeal. Achieving this intricate design on a curved surface was a technical challenge, ingeniously solved by Ikeda through the careful soaking and bending of mother-of-pearl slivers to match the dial's curvature. While not explicitly stated, it is suggested that these mother-of-pearl elements are treated with luminescent colors to produce a radiant, rainbow-like glow. The timepiece is powered by a customized automatic calibre (ETA2894/2 base) equipped with the ROCS 9 module, operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offering a 36-hour power reserve. This exclusive edition is limited to just 8 pieces, each paired with a lustrous black horse leather strap and a titanium pin buckle, retailing at CHF 32,000 (excluding taxes).

This collaboration between Ressence and Terumasa Ikeda is more than just a watch; it is a wearable piece of art that bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary imagination. It encourages us to appreciate how ancient techniques can be revitalized to create something truly innovative and modern. The Type 9 IKE is a testament to the power of cross-cultural artistic exchange, demonstrating that precision engineering can indeed serve as a canvas for profound artistic expression, inspiring a new perspective on time and aesthetics.