Kollokium, a collective known for its distinctive approach to watchmaking, is launching its latest creation, the Projekt 02 Variant B. This timepiece showcases a unique multi-layered dial with a vertical gradient, shifting from light grey to deep black, embodying a more somber and robust aesthetic. Building on the foundation of its predecessor, the Projekt 01, this new model emphasizes innovative design and meticulous craftsmanship, promising a compelling addition to the brand's unconventional lineup, now available for public acquisition.
Originating as a passion project during the Covid-19 pandemic, Kollokium was founded by three experienced individuals from the horology sector, aiming to challenge traditional watch design. Their initial offering, the Projekt 01, quickly gained recognition for its luminous pin-dial, setting a precedent for uniqueness. The Projekt 02 Variant B continues this legacy by refining the brand's signature topographical dial structure, making it a focal point of its design philosophy. The initial public offering of this new variant is poised to further establish Kollokium’s reputation for pushing boundaries in watch aesthetics.
The standout feature of the Projekt 02 Variant B is its innovative dial, described as potentially the world's first vertical gradient dial to transition from grey to black across nine distinct layers. Utilizing 67 individual dial plates, this intricate design creates a profound sense of depth. The lighter grey tones at the dial's peaks gradually darken to black in its lower regions, an effect achieved by progressively darker lacquered paint on each successive layer. This meticulous process, which includes Super-LumiNova infusion, ensures that the dial's gradient remains striking even in low light conditions.
The watch's construction further highlights its unique character. The monobloc steel case, produced using a die-casting technique—a method typically associated with toy manufacturing—lends the watch a rugged, matte finish reminiscent of a tool watch. This choice of material and process contributes to the watch's robust feel and distinctive appearance. The crown, described as a 'valve' by Kollokium, adds another unconventional element to its design. Despite its sturdy build, the watch maintains a compact profile with a 39.5 mm diameter and sharply angled lugs, ensuring comfortable wear on various wrist sizes.
Complementing the watch’s dark aesthetic is an anthracite elastic textile strap, which integrates a practical hook fastener. This choice of strap material not only enhances comfort but also reinforces the brutalist theme of the Projekt 02 Variant B. Powering this visually striking timepiece is a La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement. While the movement is deliberately left unfinished and largely concealed by the closed caseback, it reliably performs its functions. This design decision underscores Kollokium’s philosophy: the movement serves as a functional core, allowing the watch's innovative design and sculptural dial to take center stage, rather than focusing on traditional horological embellishments.
The Projekt 02 Variant B is a limited edition, with only 299 units available. Each watch is priced at CHF 3,666.66, excluding value-added tax and local duties. This specific pricing, combined with the limited production run, emphasizes the watch's exclusivity and its appeal to collectors and enthusiasts seeking truly distinctive timepieces. The immediate availability for purchase allows interested buyers to acquire this unique model, marking another milestone for Kollokium's unconventional journey in the watch industry.
The Projekt 02 Variant B by Kollokium distinguishes itself by prioritizing unique concepts and innovative manufacturing. These timepieces elicit strong reactions, with enthusiasts either embracing or dismissing their unconventional nature. Nevertheless, their dedication to exploring novel design and construction methods is widely acknowledged. This latest variant builds upon that commitment, and its darker gradient dial is expected to captivate those drawn to its distinctive aesthetic, inviting prolonged contemplation from every angle.