A brand founded by a trio of industry insiders, Kollokium debuted with a modern, brutalist-inspired timepiece distinguished by a quirky, studded dial. The follow-up, the Projekt 1 Variant “B”, features the same matte black dial that now glows blue in the dark, while retaining the cast-steel case and domed, “glass box” sapphire crystal.

Initial thoughts

Quirky and perhaps polarising, the Projekt 01 stands out with its industrial, slightly raw aesthetic. The latest version retains the same feel as the original, but now with a more restrained palette instead of the vivid, and slightly angry, red and orange of the original. Variant “B” is a low-key black and white in the light, and then glows a cool blue in the dark.

Otherwise identical to its predecessor, the Variant “B” remains affordable at CHF 2,666.66. Although there are many micro brands and establishment names competing in this price segment, Kollokium offers something different that is nonetheless a practical watch.

The Variant “B”

The Variant “B” is the latest iteration of Kollokium’s inaugural model, which launched last year as a 99-piece limited edition offered only to friends and associates of the founders, Manuel Emch, Barth Nussbaumer, and Amr Sindi, respectively an entrepreneur, designer, and media consultant. Variant “B”, on the other hand, is limited to 199 pieces and available to the public.

Last year’s Projekt 01 “Friends & Family” that glows orange in the dark

Like the original, the dial of the Variant “B” is a 3D reconstruction of a deliberately pixelated digital image created in Adobe Illustrator. Cylinders of varying heights and diameters are employed to create texture and depth on the matte black dial.

Resulting in a three-dimensional, pixelated dial surface, the cylinders also form the 12 hour markers. The cylinders, 468 in total, are filled with white Super-Luminova that glows blue in the dark. The hands are similarly painted in white Super-Luminova to match, resulting in a monochromatic appearance in the light.

Apart from the cosmetic updates, Variant “B” is otherwise identical. It utilises the same two-part case of case steel that appears industrial and slightly unfinished. Measuring 40 mm in diameter and 11 mm high, the case is compact yet substantial due to the unusual design and raw feel. 

The case is comprised of a barrel-shaped case middle matched with a case back with integrated lugs that are reminiscent of a screwdriver head. It’s topped with a “glass box” sapphire crystal that’s almost cylindrical with its tall dome.

The model name is cast in relief on the case side

The Variant “B” continues to use the La Joux-Perret G101, a no-frills automatic movement with unidirectional winding and a longish power reserve of 68 hours. Notably, Kollokium candidly declares that it uses the G101 in its stock state, with no modifications or embellishments. 

The brand’s sense of humour is revealed on the case back

Key facts and price 

Kollokium Projekt 01 Variant “B”

Diameter: 40 mm
Height: 11 mm
Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 30 m

Movement: La Joux-Perret G101
Features: Hours, minutes and seconds
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: 68 hours

Strap: Elastic textile single-piece strap with “hook” buckle in die-cast steel

Limited edition: 199 pieces
Availability: Direct from Kollokium starting May 22, 2024
Price: CHF2,666.66 excluding taxes

For more, visit Kollokium.com.