KUDOKE 2 DEEP BLUE WATCH REVIEW

A stunning evolution of the model which received the accolade of the Petit Aguille prize at the 2019 GPHG ceremony, the Kudoke 2 Deep Blue watch by independent master watchmaker Stefan Kudoke introduces a new exclusive dial edition to the craftsman’s small series portfolio. Already a contemporary icon within the watchmaking landscape, each Kudoke 2 watch is characterised by classical elegance and technical sophistication. Aesthetically pleasing in the highest degree, the new Kudoke 2 Deep Blue model captures the essence of the quietly beautiful dial arrangement of the K2 with a unique surface which promises to enthral its wearer.

With a reputation for extraordinary craftsmanship, Stefan Kudoke has, in just a decade, caught the attention of discerning collectors throughout the world. Renowned for his profound talents in skeletonization and elaborate hand engraving, in 2019, this youthful watchmaker launched his Kudoke Handwerk masterpieces collection with which he debuted his own fully in-house manufactured movement. Defined by exceptional finishing and quality, every Kudoke wristwatch exhibits meticulous hand-finishing and fastidious attention to detail.

The watch carries a rounded, polished stainless steel case sized at 38mm diameter and with a height of 10.7mm.  Beautifully executed throughout, the casing has a perfectly proportioned onion-shaped crown and curving lugs which enhance its profile, evoking a discreet presence on the wrist.

Revealed beneath the gently convex dome of sapphire glass, the dial has been rendered in a divine shade of blue. Exhibiting astounding depth, the PVD coated surface has a uniquely frosted texture which instantly elevates the whole character of the façade with its incredible facility to transform. With every subtle movement, and dependent on the particular lighting conditions, it changes in an instant from a demure shade of blue to a darker and moodier shade and even an inky blue which almost appears to be black.

Giving the dial an exquisite focal point, the domed day/night disc just beneath the 12 o’clock position displays a twenty four hour cycle as it rotates. Hand-engraved and electroplated in yellow gold, black rhodium and white rhodium, it depicts the sun, the moon and the stars as they pass above and the indication of the hour is via a petite gold triangular pointer. From the centre of the dial,  the hour and minute hands are of polished stainless steel, with the former openworked to accommodate the signature Kudoke signature “infinity” shape. Conforming to the understated design language of the watch, the chapter ring around the day/night disc and the primary chapter ring are rhodiumised, with diminutive arabic numerals on the day/night disc and supremely elegant roman examples on the chapter ring.

The Kudoke 2 Deep Blue is powered by the magnificent hand finished in-house hand-wound Kaliber 1-24H movement. Appreciative through the sapphire caseback, the impeccable finely grained frosted finish recalls that of antique English pocket watch movements from the seventeenth century and, adding to the effect, the elaborately engraved bridge which tapers to become the balance cock,  is an equally splendid eye-pleasing feature. Beating with an oscillation of 28’800 vib/h, the movement boasts a power reserve of 46 hours.

A superb example, the Kudoke 2 Deep Blue reinforces the mastery of Stefan Kudoke who is without doubt one of the most significant craftsmen of contemporary independent watchmaking. This remarkable piece, which is limited in production comes presented on a black alligator leather strap secured to the wrist with a steel pin buckle.

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