As you all know, Armin Strom has been heavily involved with Formula One racing for the last three years and this year they announced the continuation of their partnership for the fourth consecutive year as the official timing partner for the Anglo-Russian Formula 1 Team Marussia. The new Armin Strom Racing Manual ref. ST14-MR.90 that we were able to review at Baselworld 2014 last month, is just another perfect example of Armin Strom's superb craftsmanship and design.
The new Armin Strom Racing Manual features a titanium and black PVD stainless steel case measuring 43.4 mm in diameter with a thickness of 13 mm. The watch is definitely very racing looking, especially because of its solid construction and also because the dial ring appliques and movement bridges were founded directly from a monobloc of one of team Marussia's engines. It really doesn't get more racing inspired than this.
As you can appreciate in these pictures, the skeletonized dial is a complete work of art with its multilayer look. The dial features a black chapter ring with white Arabic numerals for the minutes, while the 12, 3 and 6 for the hours are applied numerals. As mentioned earlier the dial features appliques coming straight from team Marussia's engines. The dial also features a subsidiary seconds at 9 o'clock and the beautiful applique that resembles a pedal between 4 and 5 o'clock. Additionally, the colorful rubies on the movement provide a nice contrasting touch to the manly black and gray theme of the timepiece.
Just as with any other Armin Strom timepiece, the bezel features the prominent lip at 6 o'clock. If you are wondering why this unique feature is part of the design, the answer is very simple. Armin Strom watches can be personalized by adding an engraved monogram to that tiny protruding lip.
The Armin Strom Racing Manual is powered by the manual-wound Armin Strom in-house calibre AMW11-MR. This sophisticated calibre is composed of only 112 parts, fitted with 20 jewels, one single barrel, bridges made from metal coming from a Marussia Formula 1 monobloc engine and it provides an outstanding 5-day power reserve when fully wound. The calibre is fully visible via the display case back with anti-reflective treatment on both sides.
To make this watch even sportier, Armin Strom fitted it with a very supple black rubber strap with pin buckle in black PVD stainless steel and with a second interchangeable black alligator leather strap. A double-folding clasp is also available upon request for those watchlifestylers seeking a more elegant look on the strap. The interior side of the black rubber strap —that happens to be very comfortable— features a repetition pattern with the Armin Strom logo. Kudos to Armin Strom for supplying the Racing Manual with a rubber strap that is ideal for the warmer months or for those seeking to enjoy their watch while engaging in water activities —for your peace of mind this watch is waterproof to a depth of 50 meters.
On the wrist, the watch wears slightly bigger than its actual size —more like a 45 mm watch— and quite comfortably just as all other Armin Strom watches we have tried on or reviewed. If you are ready to make an impression next time you are attending the Formula One U.S. Grand Prix in Austin, Texas and you want to have a watch that will look as good on the track as it would on the paddock, look no further. If you are a fan of Team Marussia this watch is a must have. This new Armin Strom Racing Manual is available in a limited edition of only 50 pieces.
Sticker Price $13,800 USD. For more info on Armin Strom click here.
