Kollokium Projekt 02 Variant B: A Deep Dive into the Topographical Masterpiece
Kollokium, a collaborative project between Manuel Emch, Barth Nussbaumer, and Amr Sindi, is not your typical watch brand. It's a creative endeavor that challenges the conventional approach to watchmaking and branding. The Projekt 02 Variant B, a limited edition release, showcases Kollokium's unique style and attention to detail, particularly in its topographical dial design.
The Topographical Dial: A Masterpiece in Depth and Detail
What sets the Projekt 02 Variant B apart is its intricate dial, a true work of art. The dial features a vertical gradient layout, shifting from grey to black across 9 layers, composed of 67 stacked dial plates. Each plate is hand-painted with a lacquer infused with Super-LumiNova, creating a stunning visual effect. The highest peaks, representing the twelve-hour markers, are painted in a light grey, while each successive layer gets darker, adding depth and dimension.
The process of assembling the dial is a labor of love. It takes approximately 6 hours to carefully stack and peg each plate, one at a time, resulting in a topographical masterpiece. This attention to detail is a testament to Kollokium's commitment to quality and creativity.
Neobrutalist Case and Movement
The case of the Projekt 02 Variant B is made of die-cast 316L steel, chosen for its unique forms and textures that are challenging to achieve with traditional milling methods. The case is a single visible unit, featuring an integrated triangular lug, a valve-style crown, and the project designation "K,P–n°02" in relief on the flank. The compact dimensions of 39.5mm diameter and 5.90mm height without the crystal make it a sleek and stylish timepiece.
Inside the watch is the La Joux-Perret G101, an automatic movement known for its solid 68-hour power reserve. This movement is a tried-and-tested component found in all Kollokium models, ensuring reliability and performance.
Limited Edition and Price
The Kollokium Projekt 02 Variant B is a limited edition of 299 pieces, available exclusively from the brand's website. The price is set at CHF 3,666.66 (excl. VAT), making it an exclusive and sought-after timepiece for watch enthusiasts.
A Giving Heart
Kollokium's generosity extends beyond its watches. A prototype of the Projekt 02 Variant B has been consigned to the online auction house Marteau & Co, with the proceeds donated to the Musée International d’Horlogerie (MIH) in La Chaux-de-Fonds. This act of philanthropy showcases Kollokium's commitment to supporting the horological community.
In conclusion, the Kollokium Projekt 02 Variant B is a testament to the brand's creativity, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Its topographical dial design, neobrutalist case, and exclusive movement make it a standout piece in the world of horology. As Kollokium continues to push boundaries, it invites watch enthusiasts to embrace the beauty of unconventional design and the joy of exploration.
