Cover Konstantin Chaykin ThinKing Prototype 2 ultra-thin watch
Konstantin Chaykin ThinKing Prototype 2 ultra-thin watch
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With a thinness of only 1.65mm, the Konstantin Chaykin ThinKing surpasses the record set by Bvlgari earlier this year
The ultra-thin race heats up with independent watchmaker Konstantin Chaykin joining the race—and leading the pack in its first attempt! Bvlgari and Richard Mille had the thinnest mechanical wristwatches at 1.7mm and 1.75mm respectively. The ThinKing Prototype 2 beat those with a 1.65mm-thick wristwatch.
Read more: Three of the thinnest mechanical watches today
The usual practice is for the movement to be integrated into the watch case, with the caseback acting as the mainplate. In the case of Konstantin Chaykin, it was elevated to the next level via three core measures: redesign of the ultra-thin winding barrel and the double balance wheel, and tan external case equipped with an automatic winding system.
Above Watchmaker Konstantin Chaykin examining the ultra-thin case of the ThinKing
Watchmaker Konstantin Chaykin examining the ultra-thin case of the ThinKing
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The barrel doesn’t have a cover yet performs with utmost stability, offering a decent power reserve of 32 hours. Instead of a multi-level structure, the double balance wheel occupies only two levels. The first balance works together with the lever, and the hairspring is installed on the second balance.
Next was the challenge of providing the watch with the necessary rigidity to ensure consistent performance. The Prototype 2 case is made of a special stainless steel with a hardness that allows the watch to be worn normally. An external case, dubbed PalanKing, offers additional protection. But it also functions as a ‘winding system’ when the watch is worn on the wrist.
See also: Maximilian Büsser responds to Chanel’s 25 per cent stake in his company, MB&F
Above The strap plays a part in shielding the watch from dangerous shocks
The strap plays a part in shielding the watch from dangerous shocks
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And then there is the strap, which is more than something to hold the watch on the wrist. The strap transfers unwanted stress from the case to a pair of flexible titanium supports and two elastic inserts sewn inside the strap. If a potentially harmful force, such as a shock or bend, occurs, a small portion is transferred to the case, while the elastic elements of the strap absorb most of it.
Above Konstantin Chaykin ThinKing Prototype 2 surpasses the previous ultra-thin record by 0.05mm
Konstantin Chaykin ThinKing Prototype 2 surpasses the previous ultra-thin record by 0.05mm
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The face of the watch retains the brand’s famous Joker design with the hour counter (left) and minute counter as the ‘eyes’ and the brand logo forming the smile.
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Brian Cheong leads the watch (Tatler GMT) and jewellery content at Tatler Malaysia, combining sharp editorial insight with years of luxury lifestyle experience. A seasoned journalist in luxury watches based in Kuala Lumpur, Brian had previously helmed World of Watches, Men's Folio and Prestige Malaysia.
