The independent Saxon watchmaker Kudoke continues to explore its HANDwerk collection with a dark and sophisticated variation: the KUDOKE 3 Nocturne. While retaining the unique mechanical architecture of the original model, this new iteration presents a radically different visual atmosphere, celebrating a dark aesthetic enhanced by exceptional handcrafted finishes.
A matte, dark aesthetic
The Nocturne immediately stands out thanks to its 39-mm stainless steel case, treated with a matte sandblasted finish specific to this limited edition. This textural choice, which absorbs light rather than reflecting it, softens the watch’s presence on the wrist while creating a striking contrast with the black galvanic dial and frosted base. For now, this tactile and visual finish is exclusive to this model, while the brand’s signature design elements—such as the onion-shaped crown and 50-meter water resistance—remain intact.
A Monochrome Aesthetic
The display remains faithful to the KUDOKE 3’s unconventional structure: an upper ring dedicated to the minutes overlooks an hour scale divided into three distinct zones. Reading the time here becomes almost playful, animated by a three-pronged hour hand that navigates between the levels, occasionally revealing two hands simultaneously. On this Nocturne edition, the color palette takes on a more introspective tone: black gold elements, silver printing, and polished steel hands create a monochromatic composition of great elegance. Note that this dark dial variation is now part of the standard lineup for the KUDOKE 3.
At the heart of the movement: the “Flakes” finish
Under the hood, the rhythm is set by the Kaliber 1, a hand-wound movement developed in collaboration with Habring², oscillating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offering a 46-hour power reserve. What makes the Nocturne version exclusive is its decorative treatment: the rhodium-plated movement features the “Flakes” finish. This technique involves carving tiny fragments from the surface of the bridges to create a shimmering, textured, and infinitely fine finish. While this finish can be added to other HANDwerk models upon request (for an additional 2,990 EUR), it is a standard feature here. The sapphire crystal case back also reveals the mainplate, the numbered plate, and the balance cock, which is hand-engraved with the infinity symbol—the designer’s signature.
Rarity and Artisanal Craftsmanship
Limited to just 20 pieces, the KUDOKE 3 Nocturne is priced at 12,574 EUR before tax. This price point, higher than that of the standard model priced at 9,350 EUR, reflects the additional decorative work and the rarity of the piece. This strategy illustrates Kudoke’s commitment to exploring diverse stylistic directions without compromising its watchmaking architecture. By alternating between highly exclusive editions, such as the Grüner Wald with its engraved dial, and more minimalist versions, the manufacture showcases its visible artisanal craftsmanship while appealing to a clientele seeking technical and aesthetic uniqueness.