Ressence Type 9 Aqua and Grey

Quick specs Ressence Type 9 Aqua and Grey
Price: approx. $ 14,000 | approx. € 13.500 | approx. £ 11,000 | CHF 12’500 (all without taxes)
Size: 39 mm
Reference: not provided

Ressence introduces the Type 9 Grey and Aqua, its smallest and lightest watches to date. These 39-millimeter timepieces showcase the brand’s minimalist approach and innovation. Designed for those seeking a refined wrist companion, these models feature advanced mechanics and a sleek design. Also, at a relatively affordable price level.

Founded in 2010, the Belgium brand engineered its unconventional orbital convex system (ROCS). The Type 9 builds on the minimalist ethos of the Ressence Type 8, adding refined details and a more compact case. The Type 9’s smaller diameter marks a milestone for Ressence, making it accessible to smaller wrists without compromising on functionality or design.

Case and Dial: A Minimalist Approach

This Type 9 features a grade 5 titanium case with a polished finish, measuring 39 millimeters in diameter and 11 millimeters in thickness. The domed sapphire crystal includes an anti-reflective coating on the inside for better legibility. The absence of a crown ensures a streamlined appearance.

The titanium dial continues Ressence’s unique aesthetic. The patented ROCS 9 module displays the hours and minutes on separate discs with engraved indications filled with blue super-luminova. The hour disc includes just the numbers 9 and 3, emphasizing simplicity. A bezel engraved with five-minute intervals serves as the minute indicator, enhancing legibility.

Movement: The ROCS 9 System

The Type 9 uses the ROCS 9 module (Ressence Orbital Convex System), a patented module powered by a customized self-winding base movement. Which is an ETA caliber 2892. It features a 36-hour power reserve, and the module is developed entirely in-house. The module eliminates traditional watch hands in favor of discs that rotate to indicate time.

Ressence’s focus on innovation is evident in this movement. The module operates using 20 gears and 4 ball bearings, ensuring smooth and precise operation. By integrating the minute axle into the movement, Ressence continues its tradition of blending mechanical ingenuity with design simplicity. The Aqua model comes with a soft calf leather strap, the Grey model features a synthetic woven strap.

Pricing of the Ressence Type 9 Aqua and Grey

The Ressence Type 9 is priced at CHF 12’500 without taxes, which is approximately 14k in dollars, 13,5 in euros, and about 11k GBP. Comparable minimalist watches, such as offerings from Meistersinger or Nomos, fall short of Ressence’s unique orbital display and crownless design.

However, these brands offer lower price points in general. Other brands with minimalistic designs in the price range of Ressence are H. Moser & Cie and Louis Erard. The latter also experiments with alternative ways of showing the time, with regulator watches for instance. But the continuous turning action on the dial sets the Ressence models apart.