Konstantin Chaykin Joker Sandmann Only Watch 2024 Pièce Unique

On May 10, 2024, the Only Watch 10th edition charity auction will take place in Geneva. Konstantin Chaykin will participate in this prestigious watchmaking event for the fourth time, presenting the Joker Sandmann watch, a unique addition to the iconic Wristmons collection, for his contribution to the auction.

The watch features a 40 mm case made of 'bulat' steel, a unique alloy produced by the Konstantin Chaykin Manufacture. Its distinctive anthropomorphic dial features hour and minute indicators (represented by the left and right eyes, respectively) and a day of the week indicator styled as a smile. The partially skeletonized dial reveals the main plate, bridges, and movement parts. These components are decorated with a traditional frosted technique, accentuated by the gilded and grained finishes that inspired the watch's name. The base movement is the calibre G200 by La Joux-Perret, modified to the specifications of the Konstantin Chaykin Manufacture.

To create this unique image, Chaykin drew inspiration from Hoffmann's character. This isn't the first time the master has referenced the author's work; in 2020, the Mouse King was introduced to the Wristmons collection. "Among the classics of German literature, perhaps no one mentioned automatons more often than Hoffmann. This was no accident, for at that time this art captivated the public. While Hoffmann may have considered this a minor detail, for me it's crucial because in Hoffmann’s universe, my watch would inevitably become a magical automaton on someone's wrist," explained the watchmaker, detailing his fascination with the German writer’s works.

Based on the short story "Der Sandmann" various ballets, literary, and musical works have been created, and now a wristwatch continues the theme that has captivated the minds of creative people. "The design of the new watch for the Only Watch 2024 charity auction, which we are supporting for the fourth time, was almost complete, but I was struggling to find the right name. On the day the final decision was due, I reflected on the watch’s open dial and gold-plated bridges with a grained finish. I realized that the finish resembled golden sand dusted across the watch, which led me to the name 'Der Sandmann.' The inspiration was clear, as I had recently read this Hoffmann tale to my children," said the master, recounting the origins of the watch's design.

The Joker Sandmann watch is a unique masterpiece. The watch case is made of true stainless 'bulat' steel, a unique material used exclusively by the Konstantin Chaykin Manufacture. Known for its hardness and wear resistance, 'bulat' steel also offers a comfortable feel. It gives the watch a distinctive decorative texture, reminiscent of the lunar surface. It is no coincidence that Konstantin Chaykin first used this alloy in the Lunokhod watch introduced in 2011. Chaykin uses this material sparingly, reserving it for special occasions. One such occasion is his participation in the Only Watch charity auction. The Sandmann is the fourth watch Chaykin has made from 'bulat' steel for the event.

The Joker Sandmann is powered by a new high-end automatic calibre K.09-1 with a Joker indication module, where the characteristic smile of the Wristmon is represented by a retrograde day of the week indicator, a design element previously seen in the Joker-5 watch. The movement of the Joker Sandmann, however, is based on a different foundation - a specially modified high-end automatic calibre G200 manufactured by La Joux-Perret. This calibre has been finely tuned by the Konstantin Chaykin Manufacture, and its elegantly reworked bridges with detailed finish can be admired through the transparent caseback. The movement has a robust 68-hour power reserve and features a two-post bridge balance assembly with a fixed-length spiral and adjustable eccentrics, aligning with the highest standards of contemporary watchmaking. Additionally, the movement includes an automatic winding system rotor crafted by the Konstantin Chaykin Manufacture.

The distinctive appearance of the watch is achieved by the finishing of the movement, made using the technology of sandblasting, from which the watch takes its name. The main plate, the bridges, and part of the wheels of the Joker indication module are decorated in the traditional frosted finish technique with gilded and grained effects obtained by sandblasting, which gives the dial a unique golden sheen reminiscent of fine pocket watches of the 18th and early 19th centuries. The gray tones of the 'bulat' steel case are echoed by the straight grinding steel parts of the indication module, contrasting with the gilded background and enhancing the visual movement. The final touch is provided by the ruby accents formed by three stones, two of which are used as the tips of the hour and minute hands, representing the character's fiery eyes.

Technical specifications

Konstantin Chaykin Joker Sandmann Only Watch 2024 Pièce Unique

Case

• Material: "Bulat" stainless steel, a high-tech alloy used exclusively by Konstantin Chaykin for his finest creations
• Diameter: 40mm
• Height: 12.78mm
• Two crowns at 3 and 9 o'clock to give a symmetrical outline

Dial 

• Avant-garde openworked anthropomorphic 'Joker' dial
• The traditional design of the movement is visible on the dial side, with steel parts and gold-plated bridges with a frosted finish.

Movement

• Calibre K.09-1 automatic
• Joker-indication module by the Konstantin Chaykin Watch Manufacture (hour, minute and day of week indicators)
• Swiss-made La Joux-Perret G200, modified base movement.

Strap and buckle

• Black alligator leather strap, genuine “Bulat” stainless steel pin buckle

Estimate

• CHF 30'000 - 50'000

For more information, please visit onlywatch.com