alkin Model One

In an increasingly complex world, some of the best tools are still the simplest… That’s the promise from the alkin Model One – the first watch from a new British microbrand. Founded by Charlie Fowler, an award-winning contemporary furniture designer and watch collector, alkin intends to build a brand that will stand the test of time.

New on Kickstarter – alkin Model One

The name alkin is derived from old English, meaning ‘of all kinds’, and we think that with this understated design the watch is likely to have a broad appeal, which is reflected in its pre-order price point of £170.

alkin Model One – Specifications

  • Case: 316L stainless steel
  • Finish: Brushed stainless steel/Bead-blasted black PVD
  • Lume: Super-LumiNova BGW9
  • Movement: Seiko NH35A
  • Lens: Sapphire with AR coating
  • Water resistance: 100m
  • Crown: 3.5 x 6.5mm screw-down
  • Dimensions: 42 x 50mm
  • Lug width: 22mm
  • Thickness:13.25mm
  • Strap: Vegetable-tanned leather
  • Kickstarter price: £170 ($235 USD)
  • Retail price: £255 ($355 USD

The creators say that the styling of the Model One is intended to match form and function in equal measure. It uses simple elements down to create a visually balanced watch with a mixture of legibility, functionality and versatility. The case, dial and branding were all been designed from scratch by Charlie, and the Arabic numerals were created by East London typographer Gareth Hague – who also created the official font for the 2012 London Olympics!

The 42mm case should wear a little smaller due to its short lugs (50mm in total) and the crown is at the 4 o’clock position – which is often seen in Seiko watches and can really improve comfort. Speaking of Seiko, one of their workhorse NH35A Automatic movements is inside the watch so servicing will be a cinch for many years to come.

Buy an alkin Model One

If this has all whetted your palate, you can pre-order an alkin Model One on Kickstarter right now – or find out more at www.alkinwatches.com

By Mike Richmond

Mike spends what little spare time he has writing for WRUK; and what little money he makes building up his collection of timepieces.