[F]Introducing the all-new Ressence Type 9

The all-new Ressence Type 9 is a sophisticated piece in fresh shades of warm gray or aqua blue. The pebble-like titanium case measures 39 mm wide, making it the smallest Ressence timepiece to date. This watch is a slimmed down and refined version of the Type 8, displaying only the hours and minutes. Although it is not a classic dress watch with only two hands, it can be considered a modern dress watch.

When Ressence introduced the Type 8 in 2022, it was the brand’s most minimalist watch. It was (and still is) made from grade 5 titanium with a case diameter of 42.9 mm. Type 9 is nearly 4 mm smaller. However, the thickness is the same at 11mm. Both watches only display minutes and hours, but the Type 9’s smaller diameter and reimagined polished titanium create a sleeker, more sophisticated look. The smooth tapered shape and curves flow uninterrupted due to the lack of a crown. If necessary, you can flip the case over, set the Type 9, and wind it manually. Just turn slowly. Anyway, the case back speaks for itself.

The all-new Ressence Type 9 is a study in minimalism

As mentioned above, the Type 9 comes in two colors: a warm gray and a refreshing, watery blue. In addition to being the smallest Ressence watch in the history of this young brand, this watch also marks another first. That is, the minute indicator is not on the dial, but on the outside of the dial. The fixed bezel features engraved indexes, giving the watch an equally compact appearance. The Type 9 looks like a promising dress watch. Traditional watch finishes, circular titanium details, and flowing lugs that seamlessly integrate with the smooth 20/18 mm strap create a dressy aesthetic that pairs well with casual yet chic outfits. This is the watch that defines the somewhat nebulous term “casual chic,” which is often referred to as a dress code on event invitations.

Inside the Rocks

Type 9 is a pebble-shaped watch with a built-in ROCS (Ressence Orbital Convex System). Powering the brand’s signature two-dimensional time display is a traditional mechanical self-winding movement based on the ETA caliber 2892-2 with a 36-hour power reserve. Its base movement underwent extensive customization, including many parts newly manufactured to fit Ressence’s needs. The patented ROCS 9 module is driven by a microshaft and uses a series of jewel ball bearings to ensure long-term oil-free operation.

The Type 9 is a stripped-down watch that never looks bare or boring. The disc display is more subdued than before, with only the numbers 9 and 3 displayed on the hour disc. The bezel takes minimalism a step further by only marking every five minutes. This design decision is evidence of a less-is-more approach. The lack of display emphasizes a very clean and sober dial, which is exotic, original, and unadorned in a sophisticated and impressive way. Thanks to the use of lightweight alloys and the creation of a compact case, the watch weighs only 39 grams, achieving a minimalist design as well as mass.

Type 9 Gray will be available worldwide from late November 2024. A blue aqua version will also follow in February 2025. Both watches cost CHF 12,500 excluding tax. What do you think about them? Are these Ressence watches for you, or do you prefer the brand’s larger, more complex pieces? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch specifications