Seven years ago, at Baselworld 2017,
Konstantin Chaykin unveiled a watch that would become an instant sensation: the original Joker. This timepiece, the first in Chaykin's now-celebrated Wristmons collection, featured an anthropomorphic dial with the hour and minute indicators forming the eyes and the moonphase indicator forming a smiling mouth. It was a playful and innovative concept that captured the imagination of watch collectors around the world. The limited edition of 99 steel pieces quickly sold out, leaving many to dream of owning a piece of horological whimsy.
For those who missed out on the original Joker, there is good news. In April 2024, during the Masters of Horology exhibition in Geneva, Konstantin Chaykin unveiled the Joker Classic, a new take on the iconic design. The watch retains the essential elements of the original – the expressive dial and the timekeeping functionality seamlessly integrated into the character's features – but it also boasts a number of refinements.
Courtesy of Konstantin Chaykin
Konstantin Chaykin is known for his creative and often whimsical approach to watchmaking. The Wristmons collection, which now includes over 30 unique and limited editions, is a testament to his unique vision. Each watch in the collection features a dial designed to resemble a whimsical creature, with the watch's functions integrated into the design. The Joker Classic is the latest addition to this playful family, and it promises to be just as popular as its predecessor.
The Konstantin Chaykin Joker Classic is made from stainless steel and measures 40mm in diameter, a slight reduction from the 42mm diameter of the original Joker. This change reflects the current trend towards smaller watch sizes. The watch features a slimmer bezel, adorned with card suits and the letter J, a nod to the original Joker.
One of the most striking features of the Joker Classic is the dial. While the overall design remains faithful to the original, the proportions of the face have been subtly altered. The hour and minute indicators, which are still shaped like eyes, are the same size as those on the original watch. However, they are set against a smaller dial, making them appear larger and more expressive. This change gives the Joker Classic a more dynamic and eye-catching look.
Courtesy of Konstantin Chaykin
The watch comes in two colorways: the original white dial with green highlights and a new version in light gray accented with burgundy and red. Both versions are sure to appeal to watch collectors who appreciate unique and eye-catching timepieces.
While the dial of the Konstantin Chaykin Wristmons Joker Classic is its most captivating feature, the watch's mechanical heart is equally impressive. The Joker Classic features a transparent caseback that offers a glimpse into the intricate workings of the new self-winding caliber K.18-18. This movement is based on a Swiss-made La Joux-Perret G200 base, extensively modified and adapted to the specifications of the "Konstantin Chaykin" Manufacture.
The movement features beautiful finishes, such as ?ôtes de Genève and hand-polished chamfers. These details reflect Chaykin's dedication to fine craftsmanship and his attention to detail. One of the features that attracted Chaykin to the G200 base movement was its impressive 68-hour power reserve, ensuring that the watch can run for nearly three days without needing to be rewound.
Courtesy of Konstantin Chaykin
The balance assembly is also noteworthy. It features a balance bridge anchored at two ends instead of one, providing greater stability and shock resistance. Additionally, the movement utilizes a free-sprung balance with regulating eccentrics, allowing for precise timekeeping adjustments. These features demonstrate Chaykin's commitment to technical excellence.
Of course, the most distinctive element of the Joker Classic's movement is the Joker-indication module. This proprietary module was designed by the "Konstantin Chaykin" Manufacture and is responsible for the watch's unique time display. The module uses two disks – one for hours and one for minutes – to form the Joker's eyes. The moonphase indicator, cleverly integrated into the Joker's smile, completes the character's expressive face.
The dial of the Joker Classic is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design. While the overall aesthetic is inspired by the original Joker, Chaykin has introduced a number of refinements to enhance the watch's visual appeal.
Courtesy of Konstantin Chaykin
The dial features a complex combination of finishes and textures. The base of the dial is adorned with a guilloché pattern known as "grain de riz," which adds a sense of depth and dimension. The Joker's face is further embellished with a "pavé de Paris" pattern, a decorative technique using intersecting lines to create a textured, cobblestone-like effect. These intricate details give the dial a tactile quality.
The Joker Classic is instantly recognizable as a Wristmons watch, but it also possesses an undeniable freshness of its own. This balance between tradition and innovation is achieved through thoughtful choices of techniques, textures, and colors on the dial.
The original Konstantin Chaykin Joker was a groundbreaking timepiece that helped define the entire Wristmons collection. It's a truly iconic watch, and its limited availability has only added to its mystique and appeal. The Joker Classic builds upon this legacy while offering collectors a new take on the beloved design.
Courtesy of Konstantin Chaykin
The release of the Joker Classic highlights Konstantin Chaykin's enduring commitment to creativity and innovation. It also suggests a strong future for the Wristmons collection. For now though, the watch community buzzes with excited anticipation for this legendary watch. For those who missed out on the original, the Joker Classic offers a chance to own a timepiece that is both playful and technically sophisticated.
Whether you're a die-hard fan of Konstantin Chaykin and the Wristmons collection, a lover of whimsical and unusual watches, or simply an admirer of superb craftsmanship, the Joker Classic is an undeniably compelling watch. It's a timepiece that will bring joy to its wearer, a quirky yet meaningful conversation-starter, and quite possibly, a future collector's grail.