Just when I thought things couldn’t get any tastier from the Antwerp based independent brand — they just did. The new TYPE 1 ‘Squared’ is RESSENCE’s take on a dress watch.

Over the years we have become familiar with their intuitive ‘no hands’ display (which continues here). But when you look at the Type 1, you will notice a number of things that differ from a design and material perspective when compared with the rest of their collection.

Borne from the intersection of 6 spheres, it has a cushion shape case which plugs in seamlessly to the integrated lugs and an interchangeable bracelet system inherited from the TYPE 3.

The case is thinner, and there is now a small retractable lever, which takes adjusting the watch to a whole new level.

From a visual and physical perspective, this is a very modern way of interacting with a watch.

When setting the time, the rotation of the lever corresponds exactly to the movement of the discs on the dial in a ratio of 1 to 1. An up-to-date reminder of the key once used to wind clocks, watches and mechanical toys.

The Type 1 is slightly smaller than other RESSENCE watches 41mm (diameter).

Finally, the in-house complication ROCS 1 has been updated with a user-friendly quick day setting. This technical evolution is also available on the original TYPE 1 models.

The RESSENCE TYPE 1 will come in four dial versions: Silver, Ruthenium, Night Blue and Champagne. It will also be produced in an unlimited but numbered edition.

Presented with an array of strap options, the TYPE 1 is a joy for both the boys and the girls. And anyone I see wearing one down the line, will get a nod from me.

Functions: Hours Minutes Seconds Week Days

Movement: Patented ROCS 1, Ressence Orbital Convex System; winding and time setting via lever; self-winding; 36-hour power reserve

Dial: Convex German silver dial (125mm radius) with 3 eccentric biaxial satellites inclined at 3° (hours) and 4.75° (seconds and week days); engraved indications filled with Superluminova

Case: 41mm; 316L stainless steel; 10m water-resistance

Buckle & Strap: Ardillon Buckle Strap (20/20mm)

Price: CH 17, 500 EUR (20% VAT included)