www.blajournal.com
Ressence Unveils Type 11 with Integrated Proprietary Movement Werk RW-01
Ressence, an independent watchmaker founded in 2010 by Belgian industrial designer Benoît Mintiens, has consistently distinguished itself through a groundbreaking approach to time display. Eschewing conventional hands, the brand employs its patented Orbital Convex System (ROCS), where rotating sub-dials mimic celestial bodies orbiting a central point. As Ressence approaches its sixteenth year, it unveils the Type 11, a timepiece that not only introduces several new features but also marks a pivotal moment with the debut of its first in-house developed movement, the Werk RW-01. This fully integrated calibre has been meticulously engineered to seamlessly power the ROCS, ensuring enhanced reliability and efficiency, thereby signifying a major leap in Ressence’s horological advancement.
Previously, Ressence timepieces utilized modified ETA 2824 and ETA 2892 base movements to drive their distinctive ROCS modules. This patented system, first seen in their Zero series, replaces traditional hands with an intricate arrangement of constantly revolving discs, each remaining parallel to the main dial to ensure accurate time indication. The energy demand for such a complex, revolving display, with its convex dial and multiple sub-dials, is considerably higher than that of standard three-hand movements. To mitigate this, Ressence has ingeniously incorporated lightweight titanium and ceramic bearings within the module. However, earlier models faced challenges with a comparatively short 36-hour power reserve and a somewhat intricate winding and time-setting mechanism located on the caseback.
The newly developed Werk RW-01 movement, a collaborative effort between Ressence in Belgium and Swiss movement specialist Concepto, directly addresses these prior limitations. Unlike its predecessors, the Type 11 features an entirely integrated design where the RW-01 and the ROCS module function as a unified mechanism. This innovative calibre breaks from the traditional round movement architecture, adopting a distinctive triangular form. Powered by twin barrels, it boasts a substantial 60-hour power reserve. Furthermore, the often-debated winding and time-setting process has been refined. Gone is the complex rotating caseback, replaced by a straightforward hinged lever on the caseback, simplifying manual winding and time adjustment for a more intuitive user experience.
The aesthetic language of Ressence is characterized by fluid case contours that flow seamlessly into a flush sapphire crystal, creating a harmonious, organic appearance. With no disruptive crown, the convex dial and its orbiting sub-dials exude a sense of perpetual motion. The Type 11 maintains Ressence's signature 41mm x 11mm polished titanium pebble-shaped case, providing a familiar feel. However, a notable update is the inclusion of a small aperture on the caseback, alongside the aforementioned hinged lever, enhancing both functionality and design integrity. The Type 11 also introduces a patented power reserve indicator on the dial. This unique feature utilizes a series of contrasting ceramic balls: lighter ones appear as the watch winds, while darker ones recede, and the process reverses as power diminishes. This innovative display complements the revolving hours, minutes, and seconds indications.
The Type 11 is offered in three captivating dial colors: Pine (green), Sky (light blue), and Latte (off-white). Each dial showcases a multi-textured finish, featuring a sunburst pattern at its center, a circular grain on the hour and second sub-dials, and a finely grained texture on the outer minutes track, power reserve indicator, and the rings of the hour and second counters. In terms of wearability, the new Type 11 provides versatile strap options, including leather, rubber, a hybrid leather-rubber combination, and a sophisticated titanium Milanese mesh bracelet. This last option, combining lightweight properties with exceptional durability, offers the sleekest aesthetic choice. The Type 11 will be available starting May 2026 through select global retailers and Ressence’s official e-shop, with a retail price of CHF 23,000 (excluding taxes).
JUST FOR YOU
Upcoming Limited Edition Launch Announcement
Credor's Watches and Wonders Debut: A Trio of Novelties
Marco Tedeschi: The Evolution of a Watchmaking Visionary
Anton Suhanov Unveils Flamingo Wristwatch with Unique "Flaming Balance" Design
Patek Philippe Unveils Rare Handcrafts 2026 Exhibition in Geneva with Exquisite New Creations
latest news
Greubel Forsey Debuts Striking Blue Titanium Balancier 3 Timepiece
Greubel Forsey unveils a new iteration of its Balancier 3, now in a vibrant blue titanium. This timepiece maintains the brand's renowned complex mechanics and exquisite finishing, yet introduces a more modern aesthetic with a focus on clear, structural presentation. The new edition redefines the watch's visual identity while preserving its core horological principles.
Alto's Art 01 Bernar Venet: A Fusion of Horology and Sculpture
Alto, a brand known for blending art and watchmaking, introduces its latest Art 01 model in collaboration with renowned French artist Bernar Venet. This marks Venet's first foray into watch design, translating his signature large-scale, patinated steel sculptures into a unique bronze timepiece. The watch features a bronze case and a sculptural dial, both designed to develop a distinct patina over time, echoing Venet's artistic exploration of arcs, lines, angles, and the passage of time. This limited edition, with a backward-running second hand, offers a novel perspective on luxury watch design.
Trilobe Unveils Personalized Stellar Timepiece: The Trente-Deux Secret Edition
Trilobe introduces the Trente-Deux Secret Edition, a remarkable watch featuring a personalized constellation dial based on the client's chosen date, time, and location. This timepiece combines an unconventional time display with a sophisticated in-house X-Nihilo movement, available in both stainless steel and 18k rose gold.
Casio Edifice EFK-110: A Refined Evolution in Mechanical Watchmaking
Casio introduces the Edifice EFK-110 series, a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the EFK-100. Featuring a new Miyota 8215 movement, this series boasts a more compact and slender 38mm case, enhancing wearability and aesthetic appeal. The EFK-110 maintains the Edifice line's reputation for reliability and quality, offering an improved design at the same accessible price point.
Rexhep Rexhepi Unveils First Eponymous Flyback Chronograph
Independent watchmaker Rexhep Rexhepi has released his inaugural self-titled flyback chronograph, a marvel of technical innovation and refined aesthetics. This ultra-slim timepiece, measuring just 9.7 mm thick, redefines chronograph architecture with its asymmetrical, hand-wound caliber and a unique dial inspired by vintage pocket watches. Available in platinum and rose gold, these highly sought-after watches are priced at 150,000 Swiss francs.
Louis Vuitton Tambour Taiko Arty Automata: A Whimsical Fusion of Horology and Psychedelia
Dive into the vibrant world of the Louis Vuitton Tambour Taiko Arty Automata, a luxury timepiece that defies convention with its psychedelic 1960s-inspired aesthetics. This article explores the watch's intricate design, featuring hand-painted enamel and a unique automata movement, and highlights Louis Vuitton's playful approach to high-end watchmaking.