The HM Steel Amber by Arnold & Son represents a convergence of horological craftsmanship and the utilization of rare, fossilized materials. This timepiece is distinguished by its incorporation of Baltic amber, a material that is both visually unique and technically challenging to work with. The watch is part of the HM collection, which is known for its minimalist design and exceptional use of materials. The HM Steel Amber is limited to 38 pieces, underscoring its exclusivity and the complexity of its production.
The dial of the Arnold & Son HM Steel Amber is crafted entirely from Baltic amber, a material formed over millions of years from the fossilization of conifer resin. The amber’s visual characteristics are inherently unique, with each piece exhibiting distinct patterns of streaks and colour variations. The dial is devoid of complications, allowing the amber’s natural beauty to take centre stage. The hour and minute hands are centrally mounted, providing a clear and uncluttered display of time. The amber’s pale yellow hue is complemented by an imperial green alligator leather strap, creating a harmonious interplay of colours that enhances the overall aesthetic of the timepiece.
At the heart of the HM Steel Amber lies the A&S1001 calibre, a hand-wound mechanical movement developed entirely in-house by Arnold & Son. This movement is characterized by its ultra-thin architecture, with a total thickness of just 2.7 mm. The A&S1001 operates at a frequency of 3 Hz (21,600 vibrations per hour) and offers a substantial power reserve of 90 hours. The movement is meticulously finished, with rhodium-plated and circular-grained mainplates, chamfered bridges adorned with radiating Côtes de Genève stripes, and snailed wheels. The screws are blued and chamfered, with polished heads, adding to the movement’s refined appearance. The case-back side of the movement is fully decorated, featuring radiating Côtes de Genève stripes that emanate from the balance staff, the central point of the movement’s operation.
The case of the HM Steel Amber is constructed from stainless steel, with a diameter of 39.5 mm and a depth of 7.82 mm. The ultra-thin profile of the case is achieved through the use of the A&S1001 calibre, which allows for a slim and elegant design. The case is fitted with a domed sapphire crystal on both the front and back, each treated with a double-sided anti-reflective coating to enhance readability and provide a clear view of the movement. The case back is also made of sapphire crystal, offering a transparent window into the intricately decorated movement. The watch is water resistant to 3 bar (30 meters / 100 feet), making it suitable for everyday wear.
The HM Steel Amber by Arnold & Son is a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence in watchmaking. By incorporating Baltic amber into the dial, the timepiece showcases the natural beauty of this rare material and highlights the technical prowess required to work with it. The combination of the ultra-thin, nicely decorated A&S1001 calibre and the elegant steel case results in a watch that is both visually striking and mechanically sophisticated. Limited to just 38 pieces, the HM Steel Amber is a rare and exceptional addition to any collection focused on haute horlogerie.
Beauty is in simplicity …
Yes, a marvel