With the introduction of the ThinKing by independent Russian watchmaker Konstantin Chaykin, the competition to design the thinnest mechanical timepiece in the world has reached a new milestone. With its incredibly thin 1.65 millimeters thick design, this watch has surpassed previous record holders to earn the title of thinnest in the world.
To achieve this exceptional thinness, the ThinKing incorporates groundbreaking features. Its ultra-thin winding barrel and double-balance wheel system not only slim down its profile but also reduce the watch’s weight to a feather-light 13.3 grams. Forgoing the traditional crown, the ThinKing instead displays hours and minutes in separate windows, an ingenious solution that allowed Chaykin to compress the watch even further. The case itself is crafted from a special stainless steel blend to endure daily wear, though its delicate nature requires an extra layer of protection in the form of a unique alligator leather strap with elastic titanium inserts, which absorb shocks and prevent potential damage.
Despite its remarkable achievement in thinness, the ThinKing comes with practical drawbacks. Ultra-thin watches like this are notoriously labor-intensive and costly to design and produce, requiring specialized materials and precise craftsmanship. They’re also delicate; handling and wearing such watches require caution. For this reason, ultra-thin models tend to appeal less to traditional collectors, who often prefer durability.
So, why continue pushing the boundaries of thinness? For watchmakers like Chaykin, it’s a blend of prestige, innovation, and the challenge of advancing horology. Prototypes like the ThinKing don’t just compete in an “arms race”—they introduce concepts that influence the industry, potentially shaping the next generation of wristwatches with innovative designs and materials. This relentless pursuit, in turn, fuels advancements in traditional timepieces and keeps the spirit of craftsmanship alive.
