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Ressence unveils its art watch TYPE 9 Jules Wittock

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Maze with a Message

For this year’s art watch, Ressence teamed up with Belgian artist Jules Wittock to introduce a handdrawn maze onto the dial of the brand’s TYPE 9. The T9 JWE and T9 JWB – limited to 60 pieces, 30 each – is a visual experience, made to awaken the senses and wonder your way through.

Wittock is known for tracing mazes freehand. In the case of the T9 JWE (Emerald Green colourway) and T9 JWB (black), a miniaturised design offers the wearer a single entrance, a single exit, and a path between them that spells a word.

“I like hiding things in my paintings,” says Wittock. “There’s always a mystery within the maze.”

Only at midnight does the maze align to reveal its hidden message — a nod to Wittock’s childhood ritual of making a wish at times like 11:11 or 22:22. What that message is remains between the artist and those who own the piece.

The T9 JWE features a white-filled maze on an Emerald Green ALD-coated titanium dial that changes to a purple colour depending on the angle of the watch; the T9 JWB features a white-filled maze on a black titanium dial in a black coated case. The patterns are milled directly into Grade 5 titanium and traced at 0.2 millimetres wide — made visible by the painted fill catching against the metal. Both editions debut on leather straps.

“The criteria we use to choose the artists we collaborate with run deeper than creativity or graphic impact alone,” says Benoît Mintiens, Ressence’s founder and creative mind. “We look for a visual language that translates physically onto the watch. Jules’s labyrinths are engraved into the dial and filled by hand, so the drawing lives in depth. His line stays extraordinarily consistent across every path — remarkable mastery, given that he draws each one freehand.”

The result, in watch form, draws on Ressence’s patented Orbital Convex System (ROCS) technology, which allows the dials, now carrying Wittock’s hand traced paths, to orbit in continuous motion. It’s a playful interpretation of a watch built to be handled, enjoyed, and lived with.

“A Ressence adds a fourth dimension to the canvas: time,” Mintiens adds, noting that it’s only at midnight and midday that the watch dials align for wearers to solve the labyrinth. “The artwork keeps changing. It appears differently with every glance.”

Being in the Now

Wittock has drawn labyrinths since childhood to find a path through complexity. “When I create my work, it’s a moment when I am in the present,” Wittock explains. “I don’t think about what I am doing, what I need to do, or what I did. I’m just doing right now, and I love being part of right now.”

It is a philosophy of clarity drawn from complexity — and it is where his world meets Ressence’s. Both strip away the noise to reach the essential. Both make objects meant to be lived with that reward attention over time. “I love how they think,” Wittock says of Ressence. “They are starting over with watchmaking, rethinking the whole concept. The way they work is minimalist, optimal, efficient — and I have exactly that in my paintings: the maximum space given to the logic, never to empty space.”

For Mintiens, that shared instinct is the point. “We move through life guided by instinct, and the coherence reveals itself in hindsight,” he says. “The labyrinth stays intricate. Then a moment comes when the pattern resolves and the word can finally be read.”

Art Watch Series

Each guest edition watch begins with a shared way of seeing between Ressence and its collaborators. Ressence partners only with artists whose work already speaks its language — clarity, curiosity, and the conviction that an object is made to be experienced as much as owned.

Previous guest editions include Shantell Martin’s TYPE 1 Square White, featuring her fluid line drawings and “Enjoy Life” mantra for TimeForArt 2024. Stefan Sagmeister’s TYPE 3X Look Up (2020) embedded his “Now is Better” philosophy into the dial, while Alain Silberstein’s TYPE 1 S REV Grail Watch (2022) offered a symbolic exploration of “Carpe Diem.” More recently, Daniel Engelberg’s TYPE 8 DE1 and DE2 (2025) brought the artist’s “Inside Out” concentric circles into kinetic form, and

Terumasa Ikeda’s TYPE 9 IKE (2026) brought his urushi lacquer and mother-of-pearl craft to the rotating dial.

The brand’s “art in motion” philosophy underscores Ressence’s belief that a watch should engage the wearer emotionally as much as technically.

“My work is based on challenge,” says Wittock. “The more complex the process, the more satisfying it is at the end.”

Ressence TYPE 9

Built on the TYPE 9 design — Ressence’s smallest and lightest watch to date — the new editions exemplify the brand’s ‘Less is More’ philosophy, focusing on simplicity in both form and function. By distilling watchmaking to its essence, the TYPE 9 offers a pure time-reading experience with hours and minutes displayed through the patented Ressence Orbital Convex System (ROCS).

The T9 JWE and T9 JWB will be available from 17.09.2026 through Ressence’s online store and select global retailers. As the latest release in Ressence’s art series, they continue Ressence’s ongoing dialogue with contemporary art, affirming a vision of watchmaking as a meaningful form of creative expression.

Technical Specifications
Name TYPE 9 JWB – TYPE 9 Jules Wittock Black

Functions
• Hours
• Minutes
Movement
• Patented ROCS 9 — Ressence Orbital Convex System — module driven by the minute axle of a customised automatic base calibre
• Self-winding
• 36 hours power reserve
• 28,800 vibrations per hour
• 31 jewels
• 20 gears
• 4 ball bearings
Dial
• Grade 5 titanium dial (75mm diameter) running on a jewel ball bearing with eccentric satellites rolling on jewel ball-bearings inclined at 9.75° (hours)
• Engraved indications hand-filled with white lacquer and Grade A Super-LumiNova® on a Black PVD-coated titanium dial
Case
• Polished Grade 5 titanium
• Domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating inside
• 39 mm (diameter) x 11 mm (thickness)
• 1 ATM splash-resistance
• Manual winding over 12° and set-up via caseback
• Rotating two directions
Buckle & Strap
• Titanium ardillon buckle
• Leather strap (20/18 mm)
Components
• 182 components
Weight
• 42 grams (strap included)

Name TYPE 9 JWE – TYPE 9 Jules Wittock Emerald Green

Functions
• Hours
• Minutes
Movement
• Patented ROCS 9 — Ressence Orbital Convex System — module driven by the minute axle of a customised automatic base calibre
• Self-winding
• 36 hours power reserve
• 28,800 vibrations per hour
• 31 jewels
• 20 gears
• 4 ball bearings
Dial
• Grade 5 titanium dial (75mm diameter) running on a jewel ball bearing with eccentric satellites rolling on jewel ball-bearings inclined at 9.75° (hours)
• Engraved indications hand-filled with white lacquer and Grade A Super-LumiNova® on an Emerald Green ALD-coated titanium dial
Case
• Polished Grade 5 titanium
• Domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating inside
• 39 mm (diameter) x 11 mm (thickness)
• 1 ATM splash-resistance
• Manual winding over 12° and set-up via caseback
• Rotating two directions
Buckle & Strap
• Titanium ardillon buckle
• Soft calf leather strap (20/18 mm)
Components
• 182 components
Weight
• 42 grams (strap included)

About Jules Wittock

Jules Wittock is based in Brussels and raised in a family of artists. He is known for hand-drawn labyrinths painted onto large-scale linen canvases. He has drawn labyrinths since childhood to find a path through complexity — each one traced freehand. Each maze follows the same internal logic: a single entrance, a single exit, and a path between them that spells a word. Some pieces carry secondary layers — UV-revealed patterns, mechanical mechanisms, and other concealed elements — that invite the viewer to interact with the work.

Wittock works across media and techniques — from marker and paint on linen to bronze and aluminium sculpture, as well as kinetic pieces. His labyrinths run up to 10 metres in length, yet the work stays minimalistic in purpose: typically a single colour, driven by the logic of the maze.

His work has been exhibited across Europe and includes large-scale public commissions, among them a ceiling mural at the Brussels Palace of Justice. He is currently expanding into sculptural work in bronze and aluminium.

About Ressence

Founded by Benoît Mintiens in 2010, Antwerp-based Ressence is setting a new paradigm for watchmaking — rethinking what a mechanical watch would be if it were a 21st-century invention.

Known for its patented Ressence Orbital Convex System (ROCS), which replaces hands with rotating discs, Ressence crafts watches that are intuitive, legible, and deeply human. Awardwinning innovations like oil-filled dials and the absence of a crown serve a clear purpose: ergonomics, clarity, and experience.

Ressence applies design thinking to fine watchmaking, providing mechanical watches with functional meaning for those who value clarity without losing soul and functionality without compromising beauty. Ressence calls this Simplication — a dedication to innovation, minimalism, and human connection in watchmaking.

In an industry dominated by tradition and status, Ressence stands apart as a design-led independent. Its made-in-Switzerland watches are built for modern life, not the museum. Its audience is curious and optimistic, seeking watches that spark conversation without pretension.

Wearing a Ressence is a statement of optimism. A belief that the future holds more promise than the past.

Ressence TYPE 7 All-New Sportive-Chic GMT

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TYPE 7, Built for Minds that Shape the Future

Some watches tell time. The TYPE 7 moves with it. Rugged yet refined, technical yet instinctive, this is Ressence’s most advanced tool watch to date. With a 41mm Grade 5 titanium case and the brand’s signature and innovative oil-filled dial, the TYPE 7 delivers unparalleled legibility, with a display that appears as if projected directly onto the sapphire glass. A watch designed not just to be worn, but to be experienced.

Available in two exclusive colours—the deep, enigmatic TYPE 7 Night Blue and the bold, vibrant TYPE 7 XV Aquamarine, a limited edition celebrating Ressence’s 15-year anniversary— the TYPE 7 embodies the brand’s guiding philosophy of Simplication. This isn’t about stripping things back, but rather about removing anything that doesn’t serve a purpose in order to reveal the essence of a watch.

“With the TYPE 7, we set out to redefine what a tool watch can be by distilling complexity in clarity” says Benoît Mintiens, Founder of Ressence. “Every detail serves a purpose, and every element enhances the experience.”

A Tool Watch for Life, A Timepiece for Every Moment

Wherever life takes you, the world proof TYPE 7 is right at home. Whether you’re weaving through city streets, crossing time zones, or chasing adventure, it seamlessly moves with you. Built from Grade 5 titanium, it’s incredibly strong yet so light you’ll barely feel it on your wrist. Comfortable, adaptable, and made for real life.

More than a statement piece, it’s a true companion: equally at home in daily life, on adventures, and through years of wear. A watch you can trust on any journey—even on the wrist of your wildest child.

A First for Ressence: The TYPE 7’s New GMT Function

The TYPE 7 introduces a GMT function, ensuring global travellers stay effortlessly in sync, no matter where they roam. Seamlessly integrated into the dial, this second-time zone indicator provides instant readability, whether tracking home time or coordinating across continents.

Comfort and Versatility Extend Beyond the Case

While titanium bracelets are not uncommon in high-end watchmaking, the TYPE 7 is the first Ressence watch to feature an integrated Grade 5 titanium bracelet with an ergonomic deployant clasp, offering five adjustable positions for a secure, personalized fit.

Balancing refined sophistication with ultimate comfort, this new bracelet enhances the versatility of the TYPE 7—designed to blend effortlessly into everyday life while standing apart in every detail.

Precision in Motion: The Ressence Orbital Convex System

At the heart of the TYPE 7 is the patented ROCS 7, a mechanical masterpiece that redefines how time is displayed. Unlike conventional movements, the ROCS 7 isn’t just precise—it’s practically floating. Encased in oil and completely separated from the base calibre, it relies on a unique magnetic transmission system to keep perfect time. A series of micro-magnets, connected like an invisible bridge, transfer information across a Grade 5 titanium membrane, driven by the minute axle, ensuring the dial’s elements orbit in perfect synchronization.

By eliminating traditional hands and the crown, the TYPE 7 delivers a more intuitive, fluid way to experience time—almost as if time itself is in motion.

Refined Durability and Built to Withstand the Elements

The TYPE 7’s case is crafted from Grade 5 titanium and features the Ressence Compression Lock System (RCLS), a case back mechanism that locks and compresses the gasket with two positions: ‘lock’ and ‘set’, providing water resistance of at least 50 meters (5 ATM). Built to last, the TYPE 7 also features a fixed bezel, reinforcing its structural integrity while maintaining Ressence’s signature aesthetic. The Night Blue edition features a ceramic bezel for a deep, lasting finish, while the XV Aquamarine opts for lightweight aluminium for its vibrant and refreshing bezel.

Beyond Refraction: The Art of Optical Clarity

The TYPE 7’s case features a dual-chamber construction, with the upper chamber filled with 2.95ml of oil. However, this isn’t just about engineering; it’s about clarity. Light typically bends as it passes between different materials—like air, glass, and watch dials—distorting perception. But here’s the magic: because oil and glass react to refraction almost identically, the dial appears as if it’s projected directly onto the sapphire crystal. The result? No distortion, no reflection—just pure, seamless legibility.

The oil temperature display, positioned below the hour hand in the hour subdial, is a visual cue for something remarkable happening inside—a self-equilibrating bellows system that subtly expands and contracts to compensate for changes in oil volume. As temperatures shift between -5°C and +55°C, the bellows instinctively adjust, keeping the movement performing at its peak. Using a color-coded system—shifting from deep blue through green and yellow to a vivid red—the display gives a quick, on-the-fly reading of whether the oil, influenced by both external and wrist temperature, is within its optimal range.

Even in the darkest conditions, the TYPE 7 remains effortlessly readable. The engraved dial indications are filled with blue Grade A Super-LumiNova, ensuring exceptional legibility day or night.

Celebrating 15 Years of Independent Watchmaking

The TYPE 7 XV Aquamarine anniversary edition is a tribute to 15 years of independent watchmaking, innovation, and relentless evolution. Limited to 80 pieces and available only in 2025, it embodies Ressence’s founding vision of rethinking timekeeping by making it more intuitive, functional, and engaging. This milestone isn’t about looking back—it’s a bold statement of where Ressence is headed next.

Ressence TYPE 7 Availability & Pricing

The TYPE 7 is more than a tool watch—it’s a mindset. Guided by Ressence’s belief that true creativity stems from both the hands and the mind, this timepiece is for those who think differently. Made for visionaries, explorers, and those who shape the future on their own terms, the TYPE 7 is a perfect fusion of innovation and craftsmanship, freedom, and precision. It’s a companion for those who dare to challenge convention.

Key specifications about the TYPE 7 :

  • Convex Grade 5 titanium dial
  • Fixed ceramic bezel (TYPE 7 Night Blue) and aluminium (TYPE 7 XV)
  • Patented ROCS 7 displaying hours, minutes, GMT, Runner 120”, oil temperature
  • 41mm diameter x 14mm thickness
  • Grade 5 titanium bracelet and deployant clasp with 5 adjustable positions
  • Engraved indications filled with Grade A Super-LumiNova®
  • Suggested retail price: CHF 36’000 (excluding taxes)
  • Available through Ressence official Retail Partners

Available from April 2025 at CHF 36,000 (excluding taxes). Discover more at ressencewatches.com.

Also Read: Ressence Type 5 L : Encounter of the 5th type

Ressence TYPE 8 Indigo The Passage of Time in Threads of Blue

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With each thread, a story unfolds,
The hand traces moments anew,
The delicate art of Indigo holds
Time weaves its path in threads of blue

Ressence presents the limited-edition TYPE 8 Indigo, a watch born out of the brand’s exploration into the
ancient Japanese craft of indigo dyeing.

This exceptional watch is Ressence’s contribution to The Indigo Project, an initiative led by its longtime partner, Shellman in Tokyo, to celebrate the renewal and expansion of their retail space at Isetan Shinjuku department store, becoming the largest luxury watch destination in Japan.

The TYPE 8 Indigo tells the story of time in vibrant blue, showcasing the delicate beauty of natural indigo through the intricate application of silk thread. Much like the growth rings of a tree marking the passage of years, the dial design evokes the flow of time in a visually captivating manner.

Chosen for its expansive dial surface, with only Minute and Hour discs, the TYPE 8 allows the indigodyed silk thread to take centre stage. For the first time, Ressence collaborated with Swiss Arts & Métiers artisans to craft the dial, resulting in an organic yet structured pattern. The indigo pigments reveal a spectrum of shades, from electric blues to nearly black tones, creating a vibrant, everevolving watch that offers something new with each glance.

“Applying thread to a dial is an uncommon practice in watchmaking, and for Ressence, this marks the first time we have incorporated an ‘Arts & Métiers’ craft into one of our watches.” says Benoît Mintiens, Founder of Ressence. “A 0.2mm-diameter and 2.5 m-long Indigo silk thread was selected to cover the dial in a spiral pattern, symbolising the natural rhythm of time.”

Limited to 8 pieces, the TYPE 8 Indigo will be presented at Shellman at Isetan Shinjuku Watch Shop, in Tokyo,
on November 25th, 2024.

The silk thread

Ressence’s journey to create the TYPE 8 Indigo began with a commitment to authenticity. This led to the choice of thread as the ideal medium to showcase the true essence of natural indigo. Ressence partnered with Buaisou, a company based in Kamiita-cho, Tokushima Prefecture, the heart of indigo dyeing. Buaisou cultivates their own indigo plants and manages every aspect of the dyeing process inhouse, ensuring the highest quality and respect for tradition

A legacy of indigo

Indigo is said to be the oldest dye known to mankind. Indigo dyeing is a centuries-old Japanese craft, renowned for its deep warm hue, known as ‘Japan Blue.’ Believed to be introduced to Japan via the silk trade of India or through the ancient cultures of China, its production in the Land of the Rising Sun began as early as the 6th century. The indigo plant, Indigofera, an annual plant in the Fabaceae family, is prized for its colour and medicinal properties. Its leaves are harvested and fermented over months to produce “Sukumo,” the natural pigment that has been a cornerstone of Eastern art and textile.

The Process

On a standard TYPE 8, the distance between the dial’s external surface and the inside of the sapphire is only 0.25mm, so the titanium dial is carved out to accommodate the thickness of the thread, ensuring a flush fit beneath the sapphire. Due to technical constraints, some areas of the dial cannot allow for a 0.2mm reduction in thickness. As a result, two grey pockets are visible on the outside of the main minute dial. Any exposed areas are finished in neutral grey PVD, allowing the vibrant indigo hues to stand out even more.

Arts & Métiers

The delicate task of placing and bonding the silk thread to the titanium components was expertly carried out by a renowned Geneva-based atelier. Each dial requires two days of meticulous work by a skilled craftswoman. The thread is applied in a single piece, spiralling from the outer edge inward, following the contours of the cavity. To preserve the silk’s natural visual effect, special bonding materials are used to prevent glue from seeping into the fibres and altering the colour.

Technical Specifications

TYPE 8 Indigo

Functions
• Hours
• Minutes

Movement
• Patented ROCS 8 – Ressence Orbital Convex System – module driven by the
minute axle of a customised automatic base calibre
• Self-winding
• 36 hours power reserve
• 28,800 vibrations per hour
• 31 jewels
• 20 gears
• 4 ball bearings

Dial
• Grade 5 titanium dial (75mm diameter) running on a jewel ball bearing with eccentric satellites
rolling on jewel ball-bearings inclined at 9,75° (hours)
• Silk thread application
• Engraved indications filled with blue Grade A Super-LumiNova®

Case
• Polished Grade 5 titanium
• Domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating inside
• 42,9 mm (diameter) x 11mm (thickness)
• 1 ATM splash-resistance
• Manual winding over 12° and set-up via caseback
• Rotating two directions

Buckle & Strap
• Titanium ardillon buckle
• Medium warm grey Saffiano calf leather(20/20mm)

Components
• 188 components

Weight
• 42 grams

Price
• CHF 25.000 (excluding taxes)

Ressence x Shantell Martin – Where Art Meets Time in a Unique Watch

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Life and joy. Joy to live. Enjoy life.

Drawing on a dial. A dial as a canvas. A canvas for art. Art on the wrist. Wrist in motion. Motion at its minimalist. Minimalist drawn line. A line that tells time. TimeForArt.

ENJOY LIFE – This is the mantra that artist Shantell Martin inscribed onto a unique Ressence TYPE 1 Squared, crafted for the TimeForArt 2024 auction.

Known for her monumental murals, like the one at the World Trade Center’s Oculus station, and live performances, Shantell Martin has made a mark in the art world through diverse projects. She’s held solo exhibitions at venues like the Rockefeller Center in New York City and the Vardan Gallery in Los Angeles. Martin has also ventured into unique collaborations, from choreographing for the Boston Ballet to creating a meditative walking path in Times Square. Her art extends into design with brands like Vitra and Max Mara. Now, she has accepted Ressence’s scale challenge to draw directly onto a watch dial.

Featuring a white dial and only black hands, carved into Ressence’s signature flush rotating discs, this special TYPE 1 Squared serves as the perfect blank canvas for Martin’s celebrated black-on-white drawings. Free from traditional hands, this watch reads time like words on paper, making its surface an ideal space for art and time to coexist.

Art in motion

With just two words, – enjoy life – this one-of-a-kind wrist piece invites the wearer to experience each moment, with the spontaneity and freedom of Martin’s fluid line. On a Ressence dial, Shantell’s signature line moves continuously, from abstraction to clear drawing and clear drawing to abstraction, presenting a dynamic ever-changing watch face. Alive, and always evolving, this unique dial is reminding us that life is to be experienced, not controlled, or held back, and that the journey, not just the destination, is to be embraced.

TimeForArt auction

The TimeForArt auction benefit contemporary artists and support culture, making this project not just a piece of art but a contribution to the broader creative community. The second edition of this biennial auction, organized by New York’s non-profit Swiss Institute, will take place on December 7th, 2024, as part of The Phillips New York Watch Auction, in association with Bacs & Russo and under the hammer of auctionneer Aurel Bacs.

“We don’t see the final result as just a watch, but rather as a piece of art on your wrist. It’s a unique interaction between visual storytelling and mechanical ingenuity, where the simple act of telling time becomes an artistic expression.” says Benoît Mintiens, Founder of Ressence.

“Working with Shantell felt like a natural fit for us,” he continues. “Her minimalist approach, fluid lines, and the profound freedom of expression in her art resonate deeply with Ressence. Shantell’s work captures our ethos perfectly—it’s about being true to oneself, creating something that is striking and meaningful without shouting for attention.”

He concludes, “TimeForArt represents a unique opportunity to showcase how the worlds of watchmaking and contemporary art can intersect and inspire each other, a vision we share at Ressence.”

“I love that a watch can become, and is, in many ways a vessel for art, innovation, and connection. You can clearly see this with the Ressence brand, which is what makes this collaboration so special and unique.” says artist Shantell Martin.

NAME: TYPE 12 SHA

Functions
• Hours
• Minutes
• Seconds
• Day

Movement
Technical Specifications
• Patented ROCS 1.3 – Ressence Orbital Convex System – module driven by the minute axle of a customised 2892 base calibre
• Caseback winding and day/time setting
• Self-winding
• 36 hours power reserve
• 28,800 vibrations per hour
• 40 jewels
• 27 gears
• 2 ball bearings
• Convex German silver dial (250mm diameter) with 3 eccentric biaxial satellites inclined at 3° (hours) and 4.75° (seconds and day)
• White coating, no indexes, no numbers
• Black permanent marker with 0.1mm tip

Case
Buckle & Strap
• Glass pearled grade 5 titanium ardillon buckle
• Black calf leather strap(20/20mm) Components
• 212 components / 64 grams

Dial
• Glass pearled grade 5 titanium
• Double-domed sapphire crystal top with anti-reflective coating inside
• Manual winding over 12° and set up via lever
• 41 mm (diameter) x 11mm (thickness)
• 1 ATM splash-resistance

ABOUT RESSENCE

Founded by industrial designer Benoît Mintiens in 2010, Ressence is redefining the essence of contemporary watchmaking. From the start, we have taken on a “Less is More” approach, stripping away unnecessary attributes that traditional watches have clung to for decades.

Combining Swiss-made calibres with our own innovations, we reimagine the interaction between mechanical watches and their owners. Our minimalistic designs aim to awaken the senses and provoke wonder, making our watches daily companions for today’s and future generations.

It all began with the Zero Series, featuring a revolutionary dial design where time is represented on flush two-dimensional rotating discs. Gone are the traditional hands. Time reads like words on paper. This hallmark of simplicity continued with the TYPE 1, which got rid of the crown, resulting a truly ambidextrous watch. The TYPE 3 pushed boundaries further with its oil-filled dial, eliminating refraction and enhancing legibility. This watch earned us the 2013 Horological Revelation Award at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève. The TYPE 2 introduced the world’s first automatic self-setting crown, removing the need for manual adjustments. Our latest, the TYPE 8, stands as the most essential and graphically simplified Ressence, displaying only hours and minutes.

Discover more at RessenceWatches.com and join us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and YouTube.

ABOUT SHANTELL MARTIN

Born in London in 1980, Shantell Martin is a multidisciplinary artist who lives and works in Los Angeles, California. She is recognised for her fluid, freehand lines that reflect themes of identity, self- expression, and human experience. Her work often takes shape in public spaces, digital performances, and everyday objects, where she draws inspiration from the context and surroundings she engages with. Known for transforming every surface into storytelling canvases, Martin’s lines seem simple but invite deep reflection and interaction with the viewer.

Shantell Martin’s art is a metaphor for life — continuous, evolving, and spontaneous. Whether creating large-scale murals, like at the Oculus at the World Trade Center or Rockefeller Center, or collaborating with brands like Vitra and Max Mara, she explores themes of identity and self-expression. Her partnerships with celebrated figures such as Kendrick Lamar and Kelly Wearstler further underscore her impact in the art world. Even when working on diverse projects, like choreographing for the Boston Ballet or creating a meditative walking path in Times Square, Martin stays focused on encouraging people to follow their own path and embrace their uniqueness. Her art is deeply introspective and thought-provoking.

Discover Shantell Martin’s work at shantellmartin.art and on Instagram.

ABOUT TIMEFORART

TimeForArt is the first and only benefit watch auction to support contemporary art and artists. TimeForArt is a curated benefit auction of exceptional timepieces from the world’s greatest watchmakers, with 100% of the proceeds directly enabling today’s most visionary contemporary artists, through Swiss Institute’s exhibitions, public programs, education & community engagement workshops – which are all free of charge.

TimeForArt is a biennial auction, and provides a year-round platform for exchange between horological and visual arts. While deeply intertwined, the worlds of art and horology rarely come together in meaningful collaborations. TimeForArt seeks to change that by bridging the gap between the two intrinsically connected fields.
Learn more about TimeForArt auction at timeforart.ch and on Instagram.

ABOUT SWISS INSTITUTE

TimeForArt(SI) is an entirely independent non-government affiliated non-profit art space in New York dedicated to promoting forward-thinking, and experimental art making. Since its founding by Swiss patrons in 1986, SI has come to be known for its innovative exhibitions, dedication to artists, and wide range of public programs. Open to all and always free of charge, SI annually produces six major exhibitions, dozens of public programs, education workshops, and community engagement initiatives that serve over 50,000 visitors each year. As a fully independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization primarily funded through private support, philanthropy is essential in implementing SI’s mission.

Learn more about the Swiss Institute at swissinstitute.net.

Ressence TYPE 3 BB2 Time magic through liquid precision

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Meet the TYPE 3 BB2, awarded the ‘Best of the Best’ distinction in the Red Dot Design Award 2024 – think of it as the Oscars for product design.
This black edition further accentuates the hyper-minimal look of the TYPE 3, as the combination of oil and dark hue makes the thin space between the discs invisible. Whenever the dial gets in motion, wonder occurs.

“An almost pitch-black TYPE 3 edition truly showcases the magic of our flush rotating discs, acting like a mechanical screen, tricking the viewer’s senses and provoking wonder.” says Benoît Mintiens, Founder of Ressence.

The TYPE 3 Black Black 2 complements the TYPE 3 Black, White and Eucalyptus Green. It is available worldwide immediately, via Ressence’s official retailer network.

Strong graphic appeal

With its distinctive edge-to-edge, front and back, sapphire crystal, evoking a sleek dark pebble, this new addition holds a bold and captivating design.

Drawing on the limited 2022 TYPE 3 BBB’s reduced colour palette, the TYPE 3 Black Black 2 features mostly white and light grey inscriptions on its dial, accented by touches of primary colour tones on weekends and oil temperature indications.

The TYPE 3 BB2 also presents a matt black DLC-coated titanium case, departing from its exclusive predecessor and creating subtle contrast against the glossy sapphire.

Augmented readability

When launched in 2013, the TYPE 3 took the watch industry by surprise as the first ever oil-filled mechanical watch. The TYPE 3 cancels out the distortion caused by the refraction of light, ensuring exceptional readability from any angle. To achieve this result, the upper chamber has been flooded with 3.57 ml of oil, creating a magnified projection effect that gives the illusion of information displayed directly on the glass.

The TYPE 3 also remains easy to read, regardless of the lighting conditions, thanks to the filling of engraved indications with Grade A Super-LumiNova®.

Bellows system

While the oil provides high legibility, it is also sensitive to temperature variations. To compensate for the oil’s expansion or contraction under varying thermal conditions, Ressence has developed a Bellows System. It is a self-equilibrating pressure-balance system that maintains an even pressure and prevents any negative impact on performance. This Bellows System is graphically represented by a temperature gauge on the dial, adding a unique visual element to both the TYPE 3 and the TYPE 5.

Rooted in design culture

Ressence embraces a ‘Less is More’ approach, crafting meaningful mechanical watches where every design choice serves a function. Designed to be worn and enjoyed, these watches are becoming an integral part of the wearer’s journey.

TYPE 3 BB2 (Black Black 2) Technical Specifications

Functions

• Hours
• Minutes
• Day
• Date
• Oil Temperature

Movement

• Patented ROCS 3.5 – Ressence Orbital Convex System – module driven by the minute axle of a customised 2824/2 base calibre
• Caseback winding and day/date/time setting
• Magnetic transmission
• Compensating Bellows System
• Self-winding
• 36 hours power reserve
• 28,800 vibrations per hour
• 47 jewels
• 44 gears
• 4 ball bearings

Dial

• Convex grade 5 titanium discs (125mm radius) with four eccentric biaxial satellites inclined at 3° (hours), 4,75° (oil temperature and days of the week) and 6,25° (runner)

• Engraved indications filled with green Grade A Super-LumiNova® Case

Case

• Grade 5 titanium with black matt DLC coating
• Two separate sealed chambers with upper half filled with 3.57 ml of oil
• Double-domed sapphire crystal top and bottom with anti-reflective coating inside
• 44 mm (diameter) x 15mm (thickness)
• 1 ATM splash-resistance

Buckle & Strap

• Titanium ardillon buckle
• Black Honeycomb strap(22/22mm) Components

Components

• 387 components / 79 grams Price

Price

• CHF38,200 (excluding taxes)

ABOUT RESSENCE

Founded by industrial designer Benoît Mintiens in 2010, Ressence is redefining the essence of contemporary watchmaking. From the start, we have taken on a “Less is More” approach, stripping away unnecessary attributes that traditional watches have clung to for decades.
Combining Swiss-made calibres with our own innovations, we reimagine the interaction between mechanical watches and their owners. Our minimalistic designs aim to awaken the senses and provoke wonder, making our watches daily companions for today’s and future generations.
It all began with the Zero Series, featuring a revolutionary dial design where time is represented on flush two-dimensional rotating discs. Gone are the traditional hands. Time reads like words on paper. This hallmark of simplicity continued with the TYPE 1, which got rid of the crown, resulting a truly ambidextrous watch. The TYPE 3 pushed boundaries further with its oil-filled dial, eliminating refraction and enhancing legibility. This watch earned us the 2013 Horological Revelation Award at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève. The TYPE 2 introduced the world’s first automatic self-setting crown, removing the need for manual adjustments. Our latest, the TYPE 8, stands as the most essential and graphically simplified Ressence, displaying only hours and minutes.

Ressence Type 5 L : Encounter of the 5th type

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Picture this : you’re at an experimental art show. The room is dimly lit, filled with chatter and the clinking of glasses. As you check the time on your wrist, your luminous TYPE 5 L catches the eye of your neighbour. First, a brief eye contact. Then, a smile. And, in no time, here you are answering all their questions, exchanging ideas, and contact details to keep the conversation going.

In that moment, the TYPE 5 L proves our point —beyond functionality, a statement piece sparks connection, even in the most unexpected places.

Wait no more. The bright new TYPE 5 L is finally out in all its shine. And shine it does. At the movies or a wild rave, driving through a tunnel or exploring a bat cave, rest assured you won’t go incognito. As clues are hard to ignore, you must have guessed what L stands for. Neither lemon nor lavender, but L as in ‘Luminescent’. Thanks to its full Super-LumiNova® inlay,the entire dial casts a strong glow when the lights are low.

“This new beamer and latest addition to our line of mechanical watches is as much a tool watch as a conversation starter, thanks to its superior legibility and unique design .” says Benoît Mintiens, Founder of Ressence. “It’s not just about functionality; the robust TYPE 5 L brings a sense of quiet assurance and singularity to its wearer, making it a true companion for any endeavor.”

And by the way, you can also dive with it.

The TYPE 5 Luminescent will complement the TYPE 5 Night Blue and Black Black. It will be available worldwide from June 2024, via Ressence’s official retailer network.

 

Oil-Filled for Optimal Legibility

The luminous enhancement of the TYPE 5 L is paired to the Ressence oil-filled upper chamber, a hallmark of every TYPE 5. The oil cancels out light refraction and makes the watch readable from any angle, providing a clear and crisp display that is essential for divers. The extra luminescent dial only further boosts this legibility.

Meeting Diver’s Watch Standards

The TYPE 5 L meets the rigorous ISO 6425 standard required for underwater exploration, adhering to the highest levels of safety and reliability. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters (10 ATM). It also passed tests of magnetic and shock resilience, among others. The robust Grade 5 titanium construction guarantees durability while maintaining a lightweight profile.

Precision Bezel and Secure Lock System

The TYPE 5 L features the unidirectional rotating bezel with an easy-to-grip tactile design, allowing for precise and reliable adjustments. This is a critical feature for divers who rely on their watch to track immersion time accurately. Additionally, every TYPE 5 caseback deploys the Ressence Compression Lock System (RCLS), a mechanismwhich enables wearers to lock the compression gasket for waterproofing.

 

Technical Specifications

NAME: TYPE 5 L

Functions
• Hours
• Minutes
• Runner 90”
• Oil Temperature

Movement
• Patented ROCS 5 – Ressence Orbital Convex System – module driven by the minute axle of a
customised 2824/2 calibre
• Caseback winding and time setting with Ressence Compression Lock System (RCLS)
• Magnetic transmission
• Compensating Bellow System
• Self-winding
• 36 hours power reserve
• 28,800 vibrations per hour
• 41 jewels
• 25 gears
• 3 ball bearings

Dial
• Convex Grade 5 titanium dial (250mm diameter) with three eccentric biaxial satellites inclined at 3°
(hours), 4,75° (thermal gauge and runner)
• Engraved indications and dial filled with green Grade A Super-LumiNova®

Case
• Grade 5 titanium
• Two separate sealed chambers with the upper one filled with 3.75 ml of oil
• Double-domed sapphire crystals top and bottom with anti-reflective coating inside
• Uni-directional bezel
• 46 mm (diameter) x 15.5mm (thickness)
• 10 ATM water-resistance / ISO 6425

Buckle & Strap
• Ardillon buckle
• Grey fabric strap with yellow leather lining (24/22mm) + Blue rubber strap (24/24mm)
Components & Weight
• 325 components / 85 grams

Price
• CHF 34,500 (excluding taxes)

ABOUT RESSENCE

Founded by industrial designer Benoît Mintiens in 2010, Ressence is redefining the essence of contemporary watchmaking. From the start, we have taken on a “Less is More” approach, stripping away unnecessary attributes that traditional watches have clung to for decades. Combining Swiss-made calibres with our own innovations, we reimagine the interaction between mechanical watches and their owners. Our minimalistic designs aim to awaken the senses and provoke wonder, making our watches daily companions for today’s and future generations.

It all began with the Zero Series, featuring a revolutionary dial design where time is represented on flush two-dimensional rotating discs. Gone are the traditional hands. Time reads like words on paper. This hallmark of simplicity continued with the TYPE 1, which got rid of the crown, resulting a truly ambidextrous watch. The TYPE 3 pushed boundaries further with its oil-filled dial, eliminating refraction and enhancing legibility. This watch earned us the 2013 Horological Revelation Award at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève. The TYPE 2 introduced the world’s first automatic self-setting crown, removing the need for manual adjustments. Our latest, the TYPE 8, stands as the most essential and graphically simplified Ressence, displaying only hours and minutes.

Also Read: Ressence TYPE 7 All-New Sportive-Chic GMT

Discover more at RessenceWatches.com and join us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and YouTube

Watches and Wonders Geneva 2024

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55 exhibiting Maisons, 3 days open to the Public

Taking place from April 9 to 15, 2024, the next Watches and Wonders Geneva promises to be a thrilling one, with an enhanced program at the Salon and In The City, specially designed for the general public. The focus will be on the visitor experience, as well as meaningful connection and interaction with the exhibiting Maisons. Several spaces have been expanded, allowing the event to host new brands and welcome the public over 3 full days!

Planning is already well underway for Watches and Wonders Geneva to ensure a unique week for the world of fine watchmaking, with a record 55 watch brands confirmed to take part in 2024. It’s a chance for industry professionals, connoisseurs and enthusiasts to come together, experience the latest products first-hand, engage and build meaningful connections. A new 7-day program has been designed with the Salon opening to the public from Saturday to Monday. Tickets can be purchased online from early February 2024, with student and weekend prices available.

The Watches and Wonders Geneva experience has been reimagined for 2024. It will now encompass two floors and feature new spaces for visitors to explore along with enhanced venues for meeting and discussion.

In addition to prestigious names such as Rolex, Cartier, Patek Philippe, IWC Schaffhausen and TAG Heuer, six new brands will be exhibiting for the first time, with Bremont on one side and Eberhard & Co, Gerald Charles, Nomos Glashütte, Norqain and Raymond Weil on the other. H. Moser & Cie. will also be making its return to the Carré des Horlogers.

The LAB, which serves as a window into the future of the industry, will take on a new dimension at the heart of the Salon, symbolically representing the importance of technological innovation within the manufactures. Here, startups, schools and engineers will reveal the secrets of tomorrow’s watchmaking. It’s an immersive, tactile and sensory experience for the curious and especially relevant to younger enthusiasts with career aspirations.

The heart of the City will be ticking even louder to the rhythm of watch movements, with a dynamic In The City program. A new Village Horloger will be created to showcase the wonders of fine watchmaking, its crafts, savoir-faire and talents. Major brands will also be joining the festivities with in-store activities featuring presentations and special exhibitions of their finest creations. The evening celebration – with its free concert – will be held on April 11 on the Quai Général-Guisan.

Watches and Wonders Geneva is aimed at all audiences and all ages, with a particular focus on younger generations who have shown a growing interest in the industry. The countdown begins as the whole city is getting ready to once again welcome the watchmaking event of the year!

Online ticketing early February 2024!

EXHIBITING MAISONS
A. LANGE & SÖHNE | ALPINA WATCHES | ANGELUS | ARNOLD & SON | BAUME & MERCIER | BEAUREGARD | BELL & ROSS | BREMONT | CARTIER | CHANEL | CHARLES ZUBER | CHARRIOL | CHOPARD | CHRONOSWISS | CYRUS GENÈVE | CZAPEK & CIE | EBERHARD & CO. | FERDINAND BERTHOUD | FREDERIQUE CONSTANT | GERALD CHARLES | GRAND SEIKO | GRÖNEFELD | H. MOSER & CIE. | HAUTLENCE | HERMÈS | HUBLOT | HYSEK | IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN | JAEGER-LECOULTRE | LAURENT FERRIER | LOUIS MOINET | MONTBLANC | NOMOS GLASHÜTTE | NORQAIN | ORIS | PANERAI | PARMIGIANI FLEURIER | PATEK PHILIPPE | PEQUIGNET | PIAGET | RAYMOND WEIL | REBELLION TIMEPIECES | RESSENCE | ROGER DUBUIS | ROLEX | RUDIS SYLVA | SPEAKE-MARIN | TAG HEUER | TRILOBE | TUDOR | U-BOAT | ULYSSE NARDIN | VACHERON CONSTANTIN | VAN CLEEF & ARPELS | ZENITH

Day 3 at Watches and Wonders 2023

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Are you ready to shake up your routine and discover some exciting new watches today? Then look no further. From must-have novelties to wear on a work day, we’re here to give you a quick rundown on day 3 at Watches and Wonders. So grab a cup of hot tea/coffee settle in, and let’s dive into the world of watches together.

ANGELUS – Chronodate Titanium green

Chronodate Titanium boasts a 42.5 mm case that continues the neo-retro spirit of this sporty chronograph. The movement is housed in a container machined from a carbon-fibre composite. Around this container, Angelus has designed an attachment system consisting of an open-worked cradle that brings the case middle and lugs into a single line made of titanium.

Angelus has chosen to give the Chronodate imposing counters that offer optimal readability. The counters are set on a subtle green dial fittingly described as “fern green”, punctuated with large applied Arabic numerals with Super-LumiNova.

Inside, Angelus has installed its calibre A-500 displaying the small seconds at 9 o’clock and a 30-minute chronograph counter at 3 o’clock. Encircling the dial, a hand sweeps over the peripheral date display. Oscillating at a frequency of 4 Hz, the calibre incorporates a column wheel and operates via a self-winding system with an oscillating weight in tungsten shaped like a capital letter “A” above a star – Angelus’ emblem – a reference to the early days of Angelus right at the heart of the mechanism.

BAUME & MERCIER – Riviera 10720

The Riviera is back for the 50th anniversary of the brand and has a fashionable sport-chic allure. Powered by the Baumatic manufacture movement, it features a power reserve for 5 days.

A sand-blasted titanium bezel characterises this variation of the Riviera M0A10720 with a central bezel ring in 5N gold-plated PVD steel, a smoked grey sapphire dial with a transparent wave transfer decoration, and an integrated grey rubber strap with a canvas texture.

CHANEL – J12 Cybernetic, 38 mm

A graphic interpretation. A white pixel motif on a black-lacquer dial as well as on the unique case shaped like a staircase.

HERMES – H08

The Hermès H08 line has been enriched with four new interpretations in luminous shades of yellow, green, blue and orange. The colourful touches on the rubber strap, the watch-glass seal, the minutes track and the seconds hand contrast with the play-on materials embodied in the case crafted from a composite block. The distinct layers of aluminised fibreglass and slate powder create subtle silvery reflections on the case middle and patterns unique to each timepiece.

HYSEK – Abyss “H”

With a 41 mm diameter, driven by a self-winding micro-rotor movement in titanium, this new Abyss keeps the characteristics that have made the line so successful while displaying a more “gentleman’s driver” style.

RESSENCE – Type 1 Round N

A new dark and vivid Night Blue is the colour of this new TYPE 1° Round. Beyond its unique colour, the TYPE 1° Round dial has been graphically simplified with indexes every 10 minutes and a weekday dial that subtly unites the 2 non-working days of the week with a touch of colour. The absence of a crown makes the watch comfortable for both the left and right fit.

RUDIS SYLVA -Special Orders – Harmonious Oscillator

Rudis Sylva is open to producing unique watches based on its patented Harmonious Oscillator movement, decorated in the most exquisite fashion. The premise of the Harmonious Oscillator is simple: better timekeeping through physical resonance. 

TUDOR – New Black Bay

The newest Black Bay from Tudor is a diving watch that evolved aesthetically and technically. The burgundy bezel is absolutely stunning and the “T-fit” clasp and is Master Chronometer-certified by METAS.

20 Days to Watches and Wonders 2022

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The moment journalists, retailers and clients of the 38 exhibiting Maisons have been waiting for… Watches and Wonders Geneva will finally open its doors on 30 March 2022, for a week filled with exciting discoveries. A vast digital system has been set up to allow invited guests and the general public to follow online either live or via replay all the action of the Salon, which is already shaping up to be THE watch industry event of the year.

While the press, retailers and guests invited to the Salon can already plan their personalized program on the watchesandwonders.com platform, in Geneva the excitement is reaching a fever pitch. The set-up of the different exhibition areas is already underway to ensure that visitors can be welcomed while respecting health measures. In the surrounding manufactures and ateliers, the watchmakers are putting the final details to the new watches and jewelry collections that will be unveiled by the Maisons on March 30.

For its first physical event under the name Watches and Wonders Geneva – since last year’s event was entirely digital – the Salon will focus on major launches, previews, exceptional pieces and numerous new wonders. Aside from being featured in the Touch & Feel sessions, products will also be at the heart of discussions over many organized events, such as the Morning Show, the panel discussions and the innovative projects unveiled in the LAB.

Broadcast live from the Salon every morning at 8 am CET on the watchesandwonders.com platform and on its YouTube channel, The Morning Show will be presented this year by Olivia Chang, a renowned business journalist. She will host this first morning program with cross conversations between brand leaders and industry experts to follow the news of the Salon and decipher new trends. She will be back again at 7 pm CET on the Late Show, a new rendez-vous that will review the day’s highlights. Also broadcast live and in replay, the program will feature a different guest each day, who will be invited to share his or her favorites from the Salon. The Late Show will also offer a summary of the keynotes from the Maisons held in the Auditorium, along with highlights of the exceptional pieces being unveiled by the 38 exhibiting brands.

A daily 45-minute panel discussion, hosted by watchmaking experts and other influential personalities, will explore the issue of sustainable development in greater depth. This theme, a particularly hot topic at the moment, will be addressed from different angles, such as transparency, responsible sourcing, innovation and the circular economy. Broadcast live from the Salon at 1 pm CET on the watchesandwonders.com platform and on its YouTube channel, the program will also be available in replay.

Located in the center of the Salon, facing the Carré des Horlogers, the LAB has been designed as an ideas laboratory. This space, showcasing nearly 15 projects, will present the technological and digital innovations of the exhibiting Maisons. Highlighting eco- responsible sourcing practices, upcycling, the use of new materials, new energy sources and strategic partnerships with sustainable associations and organizations, the various initiatives will enable visitors to discover all these innovations and gain a better understanding of NFTs (Non-Fungible Token) and the world of metaverse.

Watches and Culture will also curate the ‘Time Design’ exhibition dedicated to the evolution of wristwatch design through the ages. Imagined as a journey through watchmaking creativity and illustrated by more than 100 timepieces presented in showcases designed by students of ECAL (École d’art de Lausanne), the event will also pay tribute to the work of Mr. Gérald Genta. Five pieces produced by students of the HEAD art & design school in Geneva will invite visitors to question the display of time, while an augmented reality experience will immerse the viewer in the history of a few watchmaking icons.

A broadcasting area consisting of two fully equipped studios will be available for the Maisons who wish to stay in touch with those journalists who are unable to travel to Geneva. In addition, booths equipped with a VISIODOME, a system that proved its worth last year as an optimized way of presenting products remotely, will allow the Maisons to share their latest creations with a larger audience.

Everyone is working hard to make this long-awaited edition the greatest watchmaking summit ever held in Geneva! Just 30 days to go before discovering new watches and jewelry releases, previews, major announcements, exceptional pieces and other innovations.

EXHIBITING MAISONS:

| A. LANGE & SÖHNE | BAUME & MERCIER | CARTIER | CHANEL | CHOPARD | GRAND SEIKO | HERMÈS | HUBLOT | IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN | JAEGER-LECOULTRE | MONTBLANC | ORIS | PANERAI | PARMIGIANI FLEURIER | PATEK PHILIPPE | PIAGET | ROGER DUBUIS | ROLEX | TAG HEUER | TUDOR | ULYSSE NARDIN | VACHERON CONSTANTIN | VAN CLEEF & ARPELS | ZENITH

CARRÉ DES HORLOGERS:

| ANGELUS | ARMIN STROM | ARNOLD & SON | CYRUS GENÈVE | CZAPEK & CIE | FERDINAND BERTHOUD | H. MOSER & CIE. | LAURENT FERRIER | LOUIS MOINET | REBELLION TIMEPIECES | RESSENCE | RUDIS SYLVA | SPEAKE-MARIN | TRILOBE