Based in Antwerp, Ressence is an up-and-coming Belgian watch manufacturer, founded in 2010 by Benoît Mintiens. While the brand’s watches are designed and engineered in their headquarters, their creations are in fact assembled in Switzerland, offering an impeccable pairing between Belgian innovation and traditional Swiss watchmaking.

Offered for the first time in 2017, the Type 1 Squared introduces an alternative take on Ressence’s iconic display of time. Still adhering to its minimalist design codes with distinct orbital discs, the entire package is evidently less curvaceous than its bubble-shaped predecessors. The present model is fitted in a smooth squared case that is extra slim, finished with carefully honed edges, in favour of a domed crystal and its similar-shaped caseback.

Measuring at 41mm in diameter and 11.5mm in thickness, this is the slimmest and smallest Ressence model produced yet. The contours case have been handled with extreme finesse, resulting in a sense of elusive elegance. The integrated lugs are also perfectly proportioned, so that they do not interrupt the already complex geometry of its cushion-shaped case.

A new winding and setting system is introduced with the Type 1 Squared, featuring a turning key that folds seamlessly into the caseback when not in use. This mechanism is beautifully designed and feels organically natural as it turns simultaneously with the Ressence Orbital Convex System. Steering away from the traditional moving-hand dial, the hours, minutes, seconds and days of the week with AM/PM indication are displayed in four independent subdials, an ingenious configuration that enjoys much recognition among collectors and their peers.

Boasting a “Night Blue” dial, the present example is offered in excellent overall condition with its original accessories.