Independent watchmaker Konstantin Chaykin unveils the Bosphorus Joker, an exclusive creation that combines the playful mechanical identity of his celebrated Wristmon collection with the cultural heritage and distinctive colours of Istanbul.
Developed in collaboration with Istanbul-based independent watchmaking boutique Salon Kantièm, this special edition introduces a striking turquoise dial inspired by the waters of the Bosphorus.
Presented at Contemporary Istanbul in September 2026, the Bosphorus Joker is produced in a strictly limited edition of 50 pieces worldwide, offering collectors a distinctive interpretation of one of independent watchmaking's most recognizable designs.
A Joker Inspired by the Bosphorus
Connecting Europe and Asia, the Bosphorus is one of Istanbul's most recognizable landmarks, celebrated for its history, cultural significance and ever-changing waters.
For the Bosphorus Joker, Konstantin Chaykin translates this distinctive setting into a vibrant horological creation.
The watch's intense turquoise dial evokes the characteristic colours of the strait, bringing a fresh visual identity to the Joker's familiar mechanical face.
The result is a timepiece that combines the playful personality of Chaykin's signature design with an unmistakable tribute to Istanbul.
Rather than simply introducing a new colour variation, the Bosphorus Joker establishes a connection between the watchmaker's creative universe and the cultural identity of the city that inspired it.
The Iconic Joker Display
Since its introduction in 2017, Konstantin Chaykin's Joker has become one of the most recognizable creations in contemporary independent watchmaking.
Its distinctive anthropomorphic display transforms conventional timekeeping into an expressive mechanical face.
The left eye indicates the hours, while the right eye displays the minutes, both using rotating discs instead of traditional watch hands.
As the discs move throughout the day, their changing positions continuously transform the Joker's expression, giving the watch an animated personality.
Below the eyes, the moon-phase indication forms the character's characteristic smile, with a stylized Moon appearing as the Joker's tongue.
The Bosphorus Joker preserves this ingenious display while introducing its distinctive turquoise aesthetic, creating a new expression of the original Wristmon concept.
The K.18-18 Automatic Calibre
Powering the Bosphorus Joker is the Konstantin Chaykin K.18-18 automatic calibre, developed around a modified Swiss-made La Joux-Perret G200 base movement.
The movement incorporates the manufacture's proprietary Joker-indication module, responsible for the rotating hour and minute discs and the distinctive moon-phase display.
Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), the calibre provides a generous 68-hour power reserve.
Visible through the sapphire exhibition caseback, the movement showcases traditional decorative techniques, including Côtes de Genève and carefully finished components.
The automatic winding rotor, produced by the Konstantin Chaykin Manufacture, further reinforces the watch's independent horological identity.
A Refined 40 mm Stainless-Steel Case
The Bosphorus Joker adopts the contemporary proportions of the Joker Classic architecture, featuring a 40 mm stainless-steel case measuring 12.2 mm in thickness.
Alternating polished and brushed surfaces create a refined contrast, while the slim bezel allows the expressive turquoise dial to take centre stage.
The bezel features engraved playing-card-inspired symbols, paying tribute to the Joker's origins and playful character.
A domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating protects the dial, while the transparent caseback reveals the movement beneath.
The watch is completed with an alligator leather strap and a stainless-steel pin buckle, combining traditional craftsmanship with the distinctive personality of the Wristmon collection.
A World Premiere at Contemporary Istanbul 2026
The Bosphorus Joker made its world premiere during Contemporary Istanbul 2026, held from September 22 to 27 at the historic Tersane Istanbul complex.
The presentation was organized in collaboration with Salon Kantièm, which participated as the event's Official Time Partner.
Alongside the Bosphorus Joker, visitors discovered a selection of Konstantin Chaykin's notable horological creations and contemporary artworks inspired by mechanical watchmaking.
The exhibition highlighted the watchmaker's broader artistic philosophy, in which mechanical components, geometry and horological principles extend beyond traditional watchmaking into visual art.
The Bosphorus Joker stood at the intersection of these disciplines, connecting mechanical engineering, artistic expression and Istanbul's cultural identity.
An Exclusive Limited Edition of 50 Pieces
Produced in just 50 examples worldwide, the Bosphorus Joker represents an exclusive addition to Konstantin Chaykin's celebrated Wristmon collection.
Its vibrant turquoise dial, expressive mechanical display and refined automatic movement bring together the distinctive qualities that have established Chaykin as one of the most creative figures in independent watchmaking.
More than a reinterpretation of an iconic design, the Bosphorus Joker celebrates the relationship between horology, art and cultural inspiration.
With its unmistakable character and limited production, it offers collectors a distinctive expression of Konstantin Chaykin's inventive approach to mechanical watchmaking.
Discover the Konstantin Chaykin Bosphorus Joker at Blue Lake Watches.