For the discerning individual who appreciates the finer points of horology, and perhaps struggles with the less-than-melodious shriek of a modern alarm clock, Ball presents a solution that is both technically masterful and delightfully civilized: the Roadmaster M Model A. This is not merely a timepiece; it is a clarion call to action, a wrist-worn reminder that greatness, in all its forms, awaits – and that it’s best to be roused by something a touch more refined than a jarring digital buzz.
Limited to a mere 333 pieces and available exclusively online, the Roadmaster M Model A is a statement piece, a harmonious blend of practicality, precision, and undeniable panache, all ringing in at a rather compelling price point for such horological ingenuity.
The defining characteristic of the Roadmaster M Model A is, without question, its patented mechanical alarm. Years in development, Ball’s in-house Manufacture Caliber RRM7379 and its “AlarmMATIC” system are a crystalline shout in the often-whispered world of watchmaking innovation. Forget the abrasive screech of lesser alarms; the Model A awakens you with the pleasant, almost nostalgic chime of a school bell – a sound both authoritative and, dare we say, charming.
This isn’t just noise; it’s a meticulously engineered symphony of tiny components, culminating in a pure, crisp tone that lasts for a surprisingly generous 18 seconds when fully wound. The secret to this sonic delight lies in the ring-shaped gong, meticulously crafted in-house and protected by a specially made polymer outer layer, isolating the high-pitched bell and eliminating any unwanted vibrations. The hammer’s striking frequency and force have been calculated with almost scientific precision, resulting in an alarm that is not only louder than its automatic brethren, but also lingers longer, ensuring you greet the day (or conquer the night) with a touch of grace.
Beyond its auditory prowess, the Model A is visually arresting, even in the darkest depths of a pre-dawn morning. The layered dial, retaining Ball’s signature minimalist aesthetic, features baton-shaped self-powered micro gas tubes for hour markers, ensuring unwavering luminescence.
A subtle rainbow motif adds a touch of playful sophistication in low light, while the alarm setting disc, cleverly incorporated into the dial’s centre layer, features a gas tube mounted beneath, guaranteeing easy alarm setting even when visibility is limited. This is “bright sound meets bold glow” in perfect horological harmony.
Encasing this symphony of engineering is a 41mm diameter, 15.2mm thick case crafted from 904L stainless steel – a material typically reserved for the most demanding applications. This isn’t just steel; it’s a super-alloy, boasting superior corrosion and rust resistance thanks to its unique chemical composition, offering both rugged performance and a luxurious sheen.
The case, with its comfortable curves and drilled lugs, is both a trusted ally and a visual showstopper. Powering the Roadmaster M Model A is Ball’s in-house alarm GMT caliber, a chronometer-certified movement delivering exceptional accuracy within -4 to +6 seconds per day. Beyond the patented mechanical alarm, it offers a quick-set GMT hand and a scratch-resistant 24-hour ceramic bezel, allowing for effortless tracking of multiple time zones. Priced at $6299, the Ball Roadmaster M Model A is not just a watch; it’s a sophisticated instrument for those who answer the call of greatness, wherever and whenever it may ring.
