Kollokium Projekt 02 Variant B: A New Dimension in Watchmaking

Emerging from a collaborative spirit among three renowned figures in horology, the Projekt 02 Variant B by Kollokium redefines traditional watch branding through its unique artistic approach. This timepiece is a testament to the brand's commitment to unconventional design, featuring brutalist cases, architectural dials that play with light and shadow, and intentionally unrefined components, distinguishing itself in the watchmaking landscape. Following the initial Projekt 01 series and a special launch edition for Projekt 02, this Variant B model marks its public debut, pushing the boundaries of topographical design to unprecedented levels of complexity and aesthetic depth.

The latest iteration of Kollokium's vision, the Projekt 02, shares its fundamental neo-brutalist ethos with the earlier Projekt 01 series, retaining many of its core external and mechanical elements. However, it is the dial of the Projekt 02 that truly sets it apart, evolving from the pin-studded surface of its predecessor to an intricate topographical display. This new design incorporates a vertical gradient across nine layers, meticulously crafted from 67 individual components, transitioning from light grey to deep black. This complex construction, the result of three years of production and six years of conceptualization, demonstrates Kollokium's unwavering dedication to innovation and its refusal to be confined by a single creative idea.

Reflecting Kollokium's signature neo-brutalist aesthetic, the watch case is meticulously crafted from die-cast 316L steel. This material choice enables distinctive forms and textures that are often unattainable through conventional milling processes. The case is a singular, integrated unit, eschewing separate bezels or casebacks, and features triangular lugs, a unique valve-style crown, and the brand's relief designation, 'K,P–n°02', on its flank. Despite its robust appearance, the watch maintains a compact profile with a 39.5mm diameter and a height of 12.40mm, including a prominent box sapphire crystal, and boasts a water resistance of 50 meters. The dial of Variant B, a direct evolution from its FFF&F predecessor and Projekt 01 Variant E, transforms a two-dimensional concept into a rich, three-dimensional topographical masterpiece. Each of the 67 stacked dial plates is individually hand-painted with a Super-LumiNova infused lacquer, with each successive lower layer featuring a progressively darker tone, a meticulous process that requires approximately six hours per dial. Powering this intricate timepiece is the dependable La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement, known for its 68-hour power reserve, and it is complemented by an anthracite elastic textile strap with a distinctive 'hook' buckle. This limited edition of 299 pieces is available for CHF 3,666.66 (excluding VAT), with a prototype being auctioned to benefit the Musée International d'Horlogerie, further highlighting Kollokium's commitment to both innovation and heritage.

The Kollokium Projekt 02 Variant B stands as a beacon of imaginative watchmaking, demonstrating how collaboration and a fearless approach to design can yield truly exceptional and meaningful creations. It inspires us to look beyond conventional boundaries and appreciate the artistry and dedication involved in crafting pieces that are both technically advanced and profoundly expressive. This project celebrates the fusion of innovative engineering with a distinctive aesthetic, reminding us that true excellence emerges from a blend of passion, precision, and an unyielding pursuit of creative freedom.