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Ressence Unveils Type 11 with Integrated Proprietary Movement Werk RW-01
Ressence, an independent watchmaker founded in 2010 by Belgian industrial designer Benoît Mintiens, has consistently distinguished itself through a groundbreaking approach to time display. Eschewing conventional hands, the brand employs its patented Orbital Convex System (ROCS), where rotating sub-dials mimic celestial bodies orbiting a central point. As Ressence approaches its sixteenth year, it unveils the Type 11, a timepiece that not only introduces several new features but also marks a pivotal moment with the debut of its first in-house developed movement, the Werk RW-01. This fully integrated calibre has been meticulously engineered to seamlessly power the ROCS, ensuring enhanced reliability and efficiency, thereby signifying a major leap in Ressence’s horological advancement.
Previously, Ressence timepieces utilized modified ETA 2824 and ETA 2892 base movements to drive their distinctive ROCS modules. This patented system, first seen in their Zero series, replaces traditional hands with an intricate arrangement of constantly revolving discs, each remaining parallel to the main dial to ensure accurate time indication. The energy demand for such a complex, revolving display, with its convex dial and multiple sub-dials, is considerably higher than that of standard three-hand movements. To mitigate this, Ressence has ingeniously incorporated lightweight titanium and ceramic bearings within the module. However, earlier models faced challenges with a comparatively short 36-hour power reserve and a somewhat intricate winding and time-setting mechanism located on the caseback.
The newly developed Werk RW-01 movement, a collaborative effort between Ressence in Belgium and Swiss movement specialist Concepto, directly addresses these prior limitations. Unlike its predecessors, the Type 11 features an entirely integrated design where the RW-01 and the ROCS module function as a unified mechanism. This innovative calibre breaks from the traditional round movement architecture, adopting a distinctive triangular form. Powered by twin barrels, it boasts a substantial 60-hour power reserve. Furthermore, the often-debated winding and time-setting process has been refined. Gone is the complex rotating caseback, replaced by a straightforward hinged lever on the caseback, simplifying manual winding and time adjustment for a more intuitive user experience.
The aesthetic language of Ressence is characterized by fluid case contours that flow seamlessly into a flush sapphire crystal, creating a harmonious, organic appearance. With no disruptive crown, the convex dial and its orbiting sub-dials exude a sense of perpetual motion. The Type 11 maintains Ressence's signature 41mm x 11mm polished titanium pebble-shaped case, providing a familiar feel. However, a notable update is the inclusion of a small aperture on the caseback, alongside the aforementioned hinged lever, enhancing both functionality and design integrity. The Type 11 also introduces a patented power reserve indicator on the dial. This unique feature utilizes a series of contrasting ceramic balls: lighter ones appear as the watch winds, while darker ones recede, and the process reverses as power diminishes. This innovative display complements the revolving hours, minutes, and seconds indications.
The Type 11 is offered in three captivating dial colors: Pine (green), Sky (light blue), and Latte (off-white). Each dial showcases a multi-textured finish, featuring a sunburst pattern at its center, a circular grain on the hour and second sub-dials, and a finely grained texture on the outer minutes track, power reserve indicator, and the rings of the hour and second counters. In terms of wearability, the new Type 11 provides versatile strap options, including leather, rubber, a hybrid leather-rubber combination, and a sophisticated titanium Milanese mesh bracelet. This last option, combining lightweight properties with exceptional durability, offers the sleekest aesthetic choice. The Type 11 will be available starting May 2026 through select global retailers and Ressence’s official e-shop, with a retail price of CHF 23,000 (excluding taxes).
