Armin Strom
The year that Armin Strom unveiled his first eponymous watch brand at Baselworld, 1984, I visited him. It was my first time at the show, as well. He was kind and enthusiastic about his art — skeletonization. It was no easy feat to skeletonize a watch, but he had mastered the technique with intricate carvings and stunning detail. That initial meeting left an indelible impression on me, as I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the passion and precision that would define his career and legacy.
Just last week, we received the news that he had passed away at the age of 86, and I had to reflect upon my first meeting with him and ensuing encounters. Because after that first meeting, I continued to to follow his journey, watching as he elevated the art of skeletonization to unprecedented heights.
Strom didn’t start out in the watch world with his own brand, his history in timepieces began in retail. Born in Burgdorf, Switzerland, Mr. Strom’s watchmaking journey actually began with his studies in the craft, culminating in the establishment of his own store in 1967. Alongside running his shop, he offered restoration services and developed a remarkable talent for hand skeletonizing, long before it became a trend among mainstream brands.
His dedication and artistry caught the attention of Switzerland’s leading watch brands, who entrusted him with skeletonizing small series of their own timepieces.
When Mr. Strom introduced his own collection in 1984, it marked a turning point not just for his career but also for the broader watch industry. His creations were not just timepieces; they were wearable works of art, meticulously engraved and decorated to reveal the intricate beauty of their inner workings. His reputation as a “master skeletonizer” spread globally, and his watches became highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Armin Strom skeletonized ladies’ watch from 1990.
His skill was unmatched and in 1990, he achieved a Guinness World Record for creating the world’s smallest hand-skeletonized watch for ladies, a feat that spoke volumes about his technical prowess and relentless pursuit of perfection. Beyond the accolades, Armin Strom’s work was a testament to his belief that a fine mechanical movement deserved to be celebrated as a handcrafted masterpiece.
In 2006, Armin Strom sold his company to Serge Michel and Claude Greisler, two childhood friends who shared his passion for horology. Together, they transformed the brand while remaining true to its founder’s vision. Under their stewardship, Armin Strom grew into a powerhouse of independent watchmaking, celebrated for its innovative approach and dedication to showcasing the mechanical movement. Although Mr. Strom officially retired in 2011, he remained deeply connected to the brand, often visiting the manufacture in Biel/Bienne to share insights and marvel at its latest innovations.
“Armin was the heart and the soul of our brand; we will miss him deeply,” said Serge Michel. “His love for open-worked movements and perfection in the decoration of movement parts has remained an integral part of our daily efforts. His natural flair, warmth, and infectious good humor are traits that we aim to adopt both as individuals and as characteristics of our brand.”
Claude Greisler echoed this sentiment, saying, “Armin provided me with many insights and opened new possibilities as a watchmaker. He was a role model for me and became a friend. He embodied the art of watchmaking in perfection.”
Armin Strom’s influence extended far beyond his technical achievements. He embodied the essence of Swiss watchmaking: an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and beauty. Today, the independent manufacture Armin Strom continues to honor his philosophy, ensuring that the past and present remain one in the pursuit of horological excellence. As I reflect on the legacy of Armin Strom, I am grateful for having known him and having been able to witness his artistry first hand.
