An unusual variation of the brand’s bestseller, the Joker Fiat Lux has a skeletonised dial revealing the signature Konstantin Chaykin “rolling eye” module that’s been decorated by hand. Fiat lux is Latin for “let there be light”, and a reference to the see-through dial. It’s limited to 38 pieces and intended for the brand’s retailer in China, West Wood Time in Beijing.

Initial thoughts

Konstantin Chaykin’s Joker has become a cult classic of sorts and the brand’s strongest seller by far. Since the launch of the original Joker in 2017, it has evolved into an entire collection known as Wristmon, short for “wrist monster”. The brand has put out many, many different Wristmons since, though the original is arguably the purest (while some variants are admittedly gimmicky).

Being based on the original, the Joker Fiat Lux stands out. It is almost the same as the original, with identical dimensions, design, and functions, but with a skeletonised dial and an exhibition back, both of which make it more aesthetically pleasing than the original.

The dial is skeletonised to show off the display module

The Joker Fiat Lux is priced similar to comparable past Wristmon models. It’s relatively affordable for a distinctive and unique example of unconventional independent watchmaking – seen that from that perspective, it is good value. Though the base movement is a no-frills ETA 2824-2, but the display module is built by Chaykin and furthermore hand finished. The inexpensive ETA calibre may not be a bad thing, given how easily serviceable the movement is anywhere in the world.

The mechanics revealed

Just like the original Joker, the Fiat Lux has a steel case measuring 42 mm in diameter. However, it is slightly slimmer at 12.1 mm. Interestingly, the Joker Fiat Lux is 15 g lighter than the original due to the skeletonised dial and sapphire back.

The two-sub dials that tell the time form the eyes of the Joker

In typical Wristmon style, the dial forms a face with the eyes being the sub-dials for the time, with the left register indicating the hours and the right, the minutes, while the mouth at six o’clock contains a moon phase display.

Unlike the original, this boasts a dial skeletonised to form a spiral sun-ray motif that shows off the parts of the proprietary display module. The parts of the module are hand-finished with “haute horologerie techniques” according to Konstantin Chaykin. The bridge between the “eyes” is decorated with hobnail guilloche.

Wristshot of the Joker Fiat Lux.

Inside the case sits an ETA 2824-2 modified by Konstantin Chaykin. Besides the in-house module on the front, the movement is equipped with a rotor open-worked to form a sun-ray motif, echoing the skeletonised dial.

The rotor is engraved with a “J” for “Joker”

Key facts and price

Konstantin Chaykin Joker Fiat Lux

Diameter: 42 mm
Height: 12.1 mm 
Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 30 m

Movement: ETA 2824-2 with Konstantin Chaykin module
Functions: Hours and minutes
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 38 hours

Strap: Black alligator leather strap with green calfskin lining

Limited edition: 38 pieces
Availability: At West Wood Time in Beijing
Price: 

For more, visit chaykin.ru