ACHI member Konstantin Chaykin unveils his newest timepiece, the Joker Classic. Part of the Wristmon collection, the new Joker reverts to the original design of 2017 but boasts a case downsized to 40 mm and more notably a new movement. 

Initial thoughts

The Joker, as introduced back in 2017, is a very quirky timepiece, not necessary suited to a wide range of tastes. The anthropomorphic dial is as striking today as it was then, with a niche appeal. Nonetheless, the timepiece was very well received – the original 99 pieces were sold out quickly. 

Since then there were some special editions based on the Joker concept, but most had their own peculiarities, mostly departing from the pure 2017 design. The Joker Classic remains exotic as ever, but feels like a return to the timepiece’s roots – complete with some embellishments and concessions to the modern industry standards. 

Priced at CHF16,900, the Joker Classic is amongst the more affordable of the Wristmon models. Like the original, it is a good value proposition given its distinctive design and high level of in-house manufacturing, despite the outsourced base movement.

A familiar face

The Joker Classic features the trademark white dial, made to resemble a smiling face. The regulator-like separated hours and minutes indicators make up the eyes, while the open grinning mouth reveals a cheeky moon phase complication.

The Joker Classic is offered in two versions: the traditional color scheme of the original Joker (white dial with green highlights), or a version in light gray with burgundy and red accents.

The white base of the dial features a guilloché grain de riz pattern, while the nose-resembling sector is decorated with a guilloché pavé de Paris, making for a change in texture. The decrease in case size caused a change in the dial proportions – while Chaykin kept the original diameter for the ‘eyes’, the face shrunk, making for an even more striking expression. 

The timepiece feels more compact and natural at 40 mm in diameter. The steel case is brushed and mostly austere – a heavy contrast to the playful dial. The bezel has a playing cards motif and the two crowns are signed and look almost onion-shaped. The case, like the dial and the Joker module underneath, is crafted in-house, at the “Konstantin Chaykin” Manufacture.

Another change comes in the movement choice. For this model, Chaykin opted for a Swiss-made base, the La Joux-Perret G200. The movement is a far-cry from the brand’s true in-house offerings, but provides a workhorse base for the Joker module. 

The G200 calibre inside is decidedly modern, beating at 4 Hz (with a free-sprung balance) and running for 68 hours on a full wind. The finishing is clearly machined and lacks refinement, which is a bit disappointing. The rotor features the brand’s seagull logo cut out, which looks like the only visible personalisation of the base movement. 

Key facts and price

Konstantin Chaykin Joker Classic 
Ref. K.18-18

Diameter: 40 mm
Height: 12.2 mm
Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: yes

Movement: Calibre K.18-18 (modified La Joux-Perret G200)
Functions: Hours, minutes, and moon phase
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 68 hours

Strap: Black aligator leather with calfskin lining and steel buckle

Limited edition: No, but no more that 100 pieces will be produces each year
Availability: Direct from Konstantin Chaykin
Price: CHF16,900 before taxes

For more information, visit Chaykin.ru