First Look Ahmed Seddiqi Partner with Ressence to Unveil the Type 9 S75

Ahmed Seddiqi, the leading luxury watch retailer in the UAE, celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. To mark this milestone, the retailer has partnered with independent watchmaker Ressence to create a special edition the TYPE 9 S75.

This commemorative model features a dial infused with real sand, carefully sourced in equal proportions from the dunes of all seven Emirates of the UAE. The result is a one-of-a-kind mechanical timepiece that captures the essence of the desert, transforming its texture into motion, all while maintaining the purity and clarity synonymous with Ressence design.

The relationship between Ressence and Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons dates back several years, with previous collaborative editions such as the TYPE 1° DX3 celebrating the region’s culture and heritage. In a symbolic gesture reflecting the strength of their partnership, Mohammed Abdulmagied Seddiqi, CEO of Ahmed Seddiqi, and Benoît Mintiens, Founder of Ressence, personally ventured into the desert to collect the sand used in the dial of this edition.

The TYPE 9 S75 retains the signature design language of the Type 9 collection, housed in a 39 mm case crafted from Grade 5 titanium. Lightweight and ergonomic, the case weighs just 40 grams and measures 11 mm in thickness. A domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the inner surface tops the polished case. As with all Ressence watches, the crownless caseback serves to wind the movement and set the time. While not water-resistant, the watch offers protection against dust and splashes.

A distinctive feature of this edition is the brushed titanium bezel, a first for Ressence  which incorporates minute indices, further enhancing functionality without disrupting the minimalist aesthetic.

The distinction lies not only in the sand-colored dial, but in the fact that it is actually made from sand sourced from all seven Emirates, giving the watch a tangible and visual connection to its origins. This was achieved using a technique known as “sand bonding,” which involves affixing grains of sand onto a surface using a special adhesive, allowing them to become a permanent and cohesive part of the material without crumbling or wearing away over time.

The hour sub-dial departs from the standard design by featuring the numerals 7 and 5 a subtle nod to the 75th anniversary, instead of the usual 3 and 9 in other Type 9 editions. All remaining hour markers are represented by indices, with the 12 o’clock position showcasing the Ressence hand logo. All engravings are filled with Grade A green Super-LumiNova for optimal legibility in low light.

Powering the TYPE 9 S75 is the innovative ROCS (Ressence Orbital Convex System), based on a customized ETA 2892-2 caliber. Beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, the movement offers a 36-hour power reserve. The ROCS 9 module, driven by the minute axle, is equipped with jewel ball bearings to ensure long-term, oil-free operation.

Further honoring regional heritage, the watch is fitted with a camel leather strap and a polished Grade 5 titanium buckle.

The Ressence TYPE 9 S75 is a limited edition to just 20 pieces, priced at CHF 15,500 (approximately AED 70,160). It is available exclusively at Ahmed Seddiqi boutiques across the UAE. 

 

For more information visit the Ressence official website.