Ressence is introducing a new collection this week in the Type 9, a watch that represents a new take on the brand’s ROCS system resulting in their smallest and thinnest creation to date. The focus of the Type 9 was ergonomics, and in service to this Ressence developed a new expression of their dynamic dial structure. For the first time, the brand has placed their minute index outside of the dial display, taking the concept first seen in the Type 8 a step further, and allowing for a sub 40mm diameter. Because of the newly refined case, we also find a more traditional set of lugs, and an overall impression of a classic field type watch beginning to emerge.
Ressence isn’t afraid to tackle new genres in their own way, and the Type 9 feels to be just such an extension of their DNA. At a glance, this has a similar feeling to the Type 8, but a closer look reveals new details at nearly every corner (or curve). This is a time-only affair, with the floating hour display set within the dial as you’d expect. Hours are read via somewhat conventional ring displaying the 3 and 9 o’clock numerals. The rest of the dial is dedicated to the minute hand, which rotates around the minute track at the exterior of the dial. The result is a design that feels slightly akin to the Type 5 dive watch.
The hour and minute ring are done in contrast to the rotating plates, which helps the watch lean into a more sporty vibe with a focus on legibility. Aiding in that are more traditional lugs that flow out of the flat, organic case. It still feels like a Ressence, but they are breaking a lot of new ground here. The case itself is made of titanium, and measures 39mm in diameter, and 11mm in thickness in a somewhat domed presence. At just 39 grams, this should be an absolute featherweight on the wrist, and could make for the most daily wearable watch to ever emerge from the brand.
I love what Ressence represents, and the Type 9 is a small extension of their unique vision. This reads like a tool watch in the same way the Type 5 does, albeit in a very different way, and it pushes their established lore into a new direction by moving the minute ring to the exterior of the dial. As much as I love an oil-filled Ressence, these more minimal representations of the idea are more accessible than ever, and I hope to see them pushing further in this direction.
The Ressence Type 9 is available in grey now with an aqua colorway coming next year, and is priced at CHF 12’500 with a synthetic woven strap. This one looks like it will take quite well to third party strap options as well, so keep an eye out for an official lug width. Ressence