Back in Blue: The Kollokium Projekt 01 Variant G Unveiled
Kollokium, the enigmatic brand that defies easy categorization, has unveiled its latest creation: the Kollokium Projekt 01 Variant G. This watch, a testament to the brand's unconventional approach, has been in the works for two years and marks the sixth phase of its Projekt 01 series. But what sets this variant apart, and why should you care?
On the surface, the Projekt 01 Variant G looks similar to its predecessors. It retains the series' raw neo-brutalist aesthetic, with a die-cast steel case that's 40mm in diameter. The two-part case features a cylindrical mid-case and a barrel-shaped base, complete with cruciform lug-inspired lugs. The watch is sealed with a cylindrical sapphire crystal, allowing light to enter from all sides, and the back is made of raw steel, ensuring 50m water resistance.
The real innovation lies in the dial, which introduces a new, softer color palette. Gone are the dark, monochromatic shades of earlier editions; the Variant G embraces a fresh, airy blue theme. The dial is studded with blue studs, creating a highly graphical and legible display. This unexpected summery touch adds a unique charm to the watch, making it stand out from the crowd.
The dial's complexity is achieved through the hand-application of 468 steel pins in varying widths and heights, with hollowed tips filled with luminescent blue pigments. These pins are treated with a deep navy blue PVD coating, creating the hour markers. While it might take some getting used to, the dial remains legible, especially in low-light conditions.
The watch offers two handset options: G1 and G2. G1 features PVD blue hour and minute hands with a blue Super-LumiNova center and a white seconds hand. G2, on the other hand, provides more contrast with white hour and minute hands, a blue PVD center, and a blue PVD seconds hand. The team's indecisiveness resulted in the release of both options, leaving you to decide which one suits your style best.
Powering the Kollokium Projekt 01 Variant G is an automatic G101 calibre from La Joux-Perret, operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offering a 68-hour power reserve. This movement aligns perfectly with Kollokium's philosophy, providing a reliable and efficient source of energy for the watch.
The watch comes on a single-piece navy blue elastic textile strap with a hook fastening system, ensuring comfort and ease of adjustment. The Kollokium Projekt 01 Variant G is released as a limited edition of 499 pieces, with a smaller number available from physical retailers. It carries a price tag of CHF 2,999 (excluding taxes), and you can find more details on the brand's website, kollokium.com.
So, is the Kollokium Projekt 01 Variant G worth the hype? That's for you to decide. But with its unique design, innovative features, and limited availability, it's certainly a watch that will spark conversations and turn heads.
