Armin Strom System 78

While the brand Armin Strom may not be well known to the broader watch-collecting public, Armin Strom became well-known in the industry for his work in finishing and skeletonizing movements. The spirit of his innovation lives on today with the Armin Strom System 78 collection.

About Armin Strom System 78 Watches

The Armin Strom System 78 collection of watches is the brand’s work to produce haute-horlogerie timepieces with a unique and contemporary design vision suited for collectors looking for traditional watchmaking in a modern package. The name comes from the co-founders responsible for modern Armin Strom, who were born in 1978.

The Haute-Horlogerie elements seen in the System 78 collection include 7-day power reserves, constant force mechanisms, on-demand flyback date mechanism, and high-end movement finishing and skeletonization.

Armin Strom System 78 History

Armin Strom’s shop was founded in 1967 in Bern, Switzerland. Offering restoration work, he quickly became highly regarded in his field and specialized in skeletonization work. His work was so highly regarded, that he was often employed by large brands to complete highly skeletonized movements for their watches. His first watches were designed independently and presented to the world in the 1980s.

In 2009, Armin Strom retired, and Serge Michel and Master Watchmaker Claude Greisler took over, who continue to manage the brand today, continuing to innovate and develop models in the spirit of Armin Strom’s original work.

The System 78 collection was conceived to release innovative haute-horlogerie watches and a relatively accessible price point. The first of which was the Gravity Equal Force model released in 2020.

How Much Do Armin Strom System 78 Watches Cost?

While relatively affordable for haute-horlogerie, Armin Strom timepieces are an haute-horlogerie brand, meaning their timepieces command high-end luxury prices.

The entry-level System 78 timepieces start at $17,700 for a Tribute 1 model in stainless steel and climb to $36,700 for the Orbit Date model. There are models priced in between depending on complexity and case materials. Most Armin Strom models stay between $18,000 and $25,000.

What’s Unique About Armin Strom System 78 Watches?

The Armin Strom System 78 line of watches serves as a platform for a number of different models. The System 78 name refers to an underlying movement architecture that serves as the launching point for different complications. Armin Strom’s purpose with this line is to offer a line of haute-horlogerie timepieces at a relatively attainable price. These watches range from simple time-only timepieces to complicated displays, unique drive trains, and extended power reserves.

Armin Strom System 78 Movements

The Armin Strom System 78 line of watches utilizes both in-house manufactured manually wound and automatic winding movements. These movements are hand-finished and assembled to a haute-horlogerie standard, competing with the best fit and finish available on the market.

Armin Strom System 78 Watch Colors

Many Armin Strom watches are partially or fully skeletonized, revealing the mechanics of the movement. As such, many watches have dials that are silver-toned due to the metal used in the movement.

That being said, some models have sub-dials to display the time that feature traditional colors such as gray, black, and blue, as well as more adventurous colors such as red, green, and purple. Some models even feature colored base plates that contrast the movement plate and the exposed bridges.

Armin Strom System 78 Watch Materials

While the designs of Armin Strom’s watches are more modern, the brand’s use of materials is quite traditional for Swiss watchmaking. The cases are made of either stainless steel or rose gold, with sapphire crystals for the dial covering and exhibition case backs. Some models use ceramic for the bezel, which is a popular modern choice for a bezel material.

Armin Strom System 78 Watch Complications

The Armin Strom System 78 line of watches features some atypical complications. The Gravity Equal Force features a constant force mechanism for the drive train, ensuring the power from the mainspring is evenly utilized throughout the duration of the power reserve.

The Orbit model features a radial date that is able to be reset via a pusher, thus moving the date pointer back to 12 o’clock. Pressing it again returns the pointer to the correct date. The One Week model features a 7-day power reserve, displaying an achievement of advanced watchmaking.

Armin Strom System 78 Sizes

The System 78 line of watches range in size from 38mm in diameter to 43.4mm in diameter for the Orbit model. With compact lugs, the smaller models are well-suited for a wide range of wrists. Even for the larger models, the case design maintains a great deal of wearability that belies the measured case diameter.

Buying Armin Strom System 78 Watches

There are a number of avenues one can pursue if they are interested in purchasing an Armin Strom System 78 watch. Armin Strom watches are available online via the Armin Strom Website and through other authorized online retailers, including Exquisite Timepieces. Armin Strom watches are also available at brick-and-mortar retailers for those that prefer an in-person shopping experience.

Exquisite Timepieces is an authorized dealer for Armin Strom watches, both in-person and online. Should you have any questions about Armin Strom watches, the staff at Exquisite Timepieces will be happy to assist you.

Caring for Your Armin Strom System 78 Watch

Exquisite Timepieces is able to take care of all servicing procedures for your Armin Strom watch and ensure it remains in top condition. Should any problems arise with your Armin Strom timepiece, Exquisite Timepieces will be able to assist you.

Many service issues are easily resolved in-house, and more complicated service needs are easily facilitated with the brand, as Exquisite Timepieces is an authorized Armin Strom retailer.

Armin Strom System 78 FAQ

What is an Armin Strom System 78?

The Armin Strom System 78 refers to the movement platform the brand created to manufacture high-end timepieces that are hand-assembled and finished for a relatively affordable price. The architecture serves as a platform for a variety of movements ranging from simple time-only watches to complicated date displays.

How much is an Armin Strom System 78 watch?

The Armin Strom System 78 line of watches range from $17,700 to $36,700. Price depends on materials and complications.

Find your new Armin Strom System 78 watch with Exquisite Timepieces

Whether it is your first purchase or adding to an existing collection, Exquisite Timepieces is an authorized retailer for Armin Strom in our store in Naples, Florida, and online.

As an authorized dealer, all new Armin Strom timepieces come with their full manufacturer warranties and will be shipped free of charge and fully insured. If you have any questions, please contact us, and an Exquisite Timepieces representative will be happy to assist you.