In the world of watchmaking, where precision and artistry intertwine,
Kudoke has carved a niche for itself. Not through mass production or flashy marketing, but through a steadfast commitment to handcraft and individuality. The Kudoke Infinity, the latest masterpiece from this esteemed atelier, embodies this philosophy, pushing the boundaries of watchmaking with its mesmerizing blend of technical prowess and aesthetic allure.
Before we delve into the intricacies of the Infinity, let's take a moment to appreciate the ethos that underpins every Kudoke creation. Stefan Kudoke, the brand's founder, embarked on his horological journey at a tender age, guided by two master craftsmen who instilled in him a deep reverence for the mechanical ballet of timekeeping. His passion led him to graduate with honors from his watchmaking studies and further hone his skills at prestigious institutions like
Glashütte Original and the service department for Breguet, Blancpain, and
Omega in New York.
Courtesy of Kudoke
At the age of 22, Kudoke achieved the Master Craftsman Certificate, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. But his journey didn't end there. Armed with his expertise and a vision to create timepieces that transcended the ordinary, he founded Kudoke, a brand synonymous with handcraft and individuality.
Kudoke's philosophy is simple yet profound: a good watch begins with a sophisticated movement, but it's the handwork that elevates it to an extraordinary level. Each Kudoke watch is a testament to this belief, a unique creation that reflects the collaboration between the watchmaker and the client. It's this pursuit of individuality that sets Kudoke apart in a world saturated with mass-produced timepieces.
The Kudoke Infinity is more than just a timekeeping instrument; it's a celestial symphony captured in a 39mm stainless steel case. The dial, crafted from blue Goldstone, also known as aventurine glass, is a mesmerizing spectacle. It shimmers and sparkles, reminiscent of a starlit night sky, drawing the observer into its cosmic depths. The fine copper particles embedded in the glass create a profound texture, adding another layer of visual intrigue to the dial.
But the true showstopper lies beneath the dial: the hand-guilloched movement bridge. This intricate masterpiece of craftsmanship is a testament to the infinite possibilities of the watchmaker's art. Delicate lines, meticulously engraved by hand, adorn the white rhodium-plated bridge, forming a pattern that radiates outwards from the frosted balance cock, evoking the image of a radiant star. The level of detail is simply breathtaking, a testament to the countless hours of painstaking work that went into its creation.
Courtesy of Kudoke
The hands of the Infinity, shaped like infinity symbols, further reinforce the watch's thematic focus. They glide effortlessly across the dial, marking the passage of time with an elegance that belies their mechanical nature. The rhodium-plated chapter ring, with its lacquered Roman numerals and dot-shaped hour markers, provides a subtle yet sophisticated frame for this celestial dance.
Powering this horological marvel is the in-house Kaliber 1, a hand-wound movement developed in collaboration with Habring2. This 30mm caliber, ticking at a steady 28,800 vibrations per hour, boasts a 46-hour power reserve, ensuring that the Infinity keeps perfect time even when it's not being worn. The movement's architecture is a feast for the eyes, with its hand-guilloched bridge, frosted balance cock, blued screws, and snailed wheels showcasing the meticulous attention to detail that defines Kudoke's creations.
The Infinity's case, crafted from polished stainless steel, is a study in understated elegance. Its 39mm diameter and 10.3mm height make it a comfortable fit on most wrists, while the stepped bezel and onion crown add a touch of vintage charm. The convex sapphire crystal, with its anti-reflective coating, offers a crystal-clear view of the dial, while the sapphire caseback provides a glimpse into the intricate workings of the Kaliber 1.
The Infinity’s 39mm stainless steel case strikes a balance between classic proportions and contemporary aesthetics. It’s a size that sits comfortably on most wrists, ensuring that the watch doesn’t overpower its wearer. The polished finish of the case adds a touch of refinement, allowing the watch to seamlessly transition from casual to formal settings.
Courtesy of Kudoke
The stepped bezel, a subtle yet distinctive design element, adds depth and visual interest to the case. It frames the blue Goldstone dial, inviting the eye to explore its shimmering depths. The onion crown, engraved with the Kudoke “K,” is a nod to traditional watchmaking, while its ergonomic shape ensures easy winding and setting of the time.
Beneath the sapphire crystal lies the heart of the Infinity: the blue Goldstone dial. This mesmerizing material, also known as aventurine glass, is a testament to the ingenuity of glassmakers. Fine copper particles suspended within the glass create a shimmering effect that evokes images of a starlit night sky. The dial’s
Deep Blue hue adds a sense of mystery and depth, inviting the wearer to lose themselves in its celestial beauty.
The Infinity’s hands, shaped like infinity symbols, are a playful yet elegant touch. They echo the watch’s thematic focus, reminding the wearer of the boundless nature of time and the infinite possibilities that lie ahead. The rhodium-plated chapter ring, with its lacquered Roman numerals and dot-shaped hour markers, provides a clear and legible display of the time, ensuring that the watch remains functional even as it captivates with its artistry.
The Kudoke Infinity is powered by the in-house Kaliber 1, a hand-wound movement developed in collaboration with Habring2. This 30mm caliber is a testament to Kudoke’s commitment to horological excellence. It beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, ensuring accurate timekeeping. The movement’s 46-hour power reserve allows the watch to run for almost two full days without needing to be wound, a testament to its efficient design.
Courtesy of Kudoke
But the Kaliber 1 is more than just a reliable timekeeper; it’s a work of art in its own right. The hand-guilloched bridge, with its intricate patterns, is a testament to the skill and dedication of Kudoke’s artisans. The frosted balance cock, blued screws, and snailed wheels further enhance the movement’s visual appeal, making it a joy to behold through the sapphire caseback.
The Kudoke Infinity is not a watch for the masses. With an annual production limited to just 12 pieces, it’s a rare and exclusive timepiece that will appeal to discerning collectors who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into each Kudoke creation.
The watch is available with a choice of leather or Alcantara straps, allowing the wearer to personalize their Infinity to their individual style. The steel pin buckle or folding clasp ensures a secure and comfortable fit on the wrist.
The Kudoke Infinity is priced at EUR 14,170, a reflection of its exclusivity, hand-crafted nature, and the countless hours of skilled labor that go into its creation. It’s an investment piece, a watch that will not only appreciate in value over time but also provide its owner with a lifetime of enjoyment.
Courtesy of Kudoke
If you’re looking for a timepiece that transcends the ordinary, a watch that embodies the spirit of handcraft and individuality, the Kudoke Infinity is a worthy contender. It’s a testament to the enduring power of horological artistry and a reminder that, in a world of mass production, true luxury lies in the unique and the hand-made.
The Kudoke Infinity is just one example of the exceptional timepieces that Stefan Kudoke and his team are capable of creating. With their unwavering commitment to handcraft, individuality, and technical excellence, Kudoke is a brand that is sure to continue pushing the boundaries of watchmaking for years to come.