Swiss watch manufacturer Kross Studio is building momentum. The daring design studio continues to defy expectations and demand attention with each successive product reveal. After a string of dramatic entertainment collaborations, the studio has at last created its own stand-alone Kross Studio branded collections.
The journey began in late 2023 as with the KS 05, Kross Studio revealed the first of it solo Kross Studio brand timepieces and a showcase for Kross Studio’s iconic in-house movement, the central floating tourbillon. In early 2024, Kross Studio evolved yet further with the presentation of its KS 06 collection – which introduced a new 42 mm case with integrated lugs. The model preserved its distinctive design features while introducing a Kross Studio first 42mm case with integrated lugs. Th reimagined contemporary case design of the Kross Studio KS 06 collection blends the best of tradition and innovation by housing the Studio’s groundbreaking and innovative central flying tourbillon movement within a more-traditional lug-style case – housed under an ethereal crystal dome.
The New 42mm Case
The KS 06 boasts a classic yet contemporary allure, achieved through its round shape and integrated lugs in a 42mm grade 5 titanium case with open case back to showcase the movement through an oversized crystal. The typical crown at 3 o’clock has been omitted to preserve its minimalist, symmetrical appearance and prioritize ergonomic comfort. The middle band, lugs, and time set button feature dual satin and polished beveled finishes. The bezel and case back offer a contrasting polished finish – a difficult feat to achieve in grade 5 titanium. On the case back, the central crown is circular satin-finished, beveled, polished, and stretched along its perimeter.
The Crystal Dome
The arcing sapphire crystal dome of the KS 06 allows the movement to be appreciated from all angles. Anti-reflective coating has been applied to both the outer and inner surfaces of the sapphire crystal, while anti-UV and anti-static treatments have been applied inside the crystal, making it nearly invisible so the central floating tourbillon is displayed to its best advantage.
A New Winding System and Clear Case Back
In what has become a Kross Studio signature and symbol of excellence, the KS 06 again features a unique crown located on the case back center, which directly engages with the barrel. Time setting is user-friendly and as simple as the twist of a finger to rotate the crown. The seamingly simple feat marked a significant technical challenge for Studio engineers, who for the first time, were tasked to create a transparent case back that also featured this unique case back crown system. This demand necessitated development of a new sealing system that would allow the passage of a mobile winding stem through the center of the case back glass, all the while ensuring optimal clarity of the movement. While a traditional case usually requires only one or two case back seals, the KS 06 case requires nearly ten to ensure its waterproof capabilities.
A New Interchangeable Strap System
Kross Studio’s interchangeable strap system is hidden on the lugs. This one-of-a-kind, patent pending innovation streamlines the process of removing and replacings watch straps. With no tools required, the strap is simply placed between the lugs, and the spring bar slides along a dedicated groove until it is affixed in position. For even greater flexibility and ease of use, KS 06 watches can be fitted with any standard strap measuring 20 mm in width.
The KS 7’006 Movement and New Barrel Bridge
The central floating tourbillon, Kross Studio’s iconic manufacture caliber, seamlessly integrates within this new case. The manual-winding mechanical movement’s architecture consists of 220 components including 27 jewels, to provide exceptional performance. Main functions such as winding, energy accumulation, regulation, and display are concentric and co-axial at the center of the plate. Thus, the barrel, with a diameter larger than the radius of the plate, delivers a power reserve of 120 hours with chronometric performance. The tourbillon, its balance wheel, and its fixed second wheel are elevated above the movement and hands, overlooking the barrel. Kross Studio’s central floating tourbillon, a patented technical revolution, offers a unique perspective on its complex mechanics. The KS 7’006 movement’s peripheral hour display mechanism representes another significant achievement – driven by a planetary gear system mounted on two ball bearings, freeing the tourbillon from any obstruction. The hands of the KS 06 watch are rhodium-plated and filled with white Super-LumiNova®
Showcasing Expertise
The components of the KS 06 watch are decorated according to the codes of traditional watchmaking. The barrel bridge of the KS 7’006 caliber has been redesigned to be integrated within the KS 06 case – in fact, its size increased in diameter to receive top-level decoration. Its angles are hand-beveled, its edges stretched, its recesses pearl-shaped, and the upper surface of the bridge is adorned with côtes de Genève. This very high level of finishing, executed entirely in-house, is made possible thanks to the development of Kross Studio’s decoration department. The dial, too, has received an expert finish. The flange has undergone an ultra-fine opal sandblasting. Rhodium-plated, it reveals a shiny black decal railway track. Applied to the fixed hour wheel, the second part is grained and comes in five different colors: blue, black, gold, green, and purple.
Unwavering Novelty
Ingenious innovation is the common thread that unites Kross Studio timepieces. Here, the innovations are evident throughout this new case’s elements – attesting to Kross Studio’s ongoing commitment to excellence and pursuit of perfection. The KS 06 watches open new horizons within the universe of Kross Studio collections. Five initial versions are presented, each equipped with coordinated interchangeable straps. Each iteration is limited to 10 pieces. KS 06 watches (starting from 68,000 CHF) are available for sale on kross-studio.com as well as via authorized retailers.
ABOUT KROSS STUDIO
Founded in 2020 by Marco Tedeschi, Kross Studio creates contemporary complication watches, seamlessly blending form with function, all the while respecting the fundamental codes of watchmaking. The creations go beyond the simple measurement of time.
At the center of universes or collaborations that convey emotions, revive memories, and captivate the imagination, Kross Studio is the true embodiment of the concept of Functional Art. With complete control over design and production in its Manufacture in Switzerland, we unleash creativity without constraints, crafting exceptional watches that defy convention, done to the highest standards of Haute Horlogerie.
When collaborating with industry giants like Warner Bros. Discovery, HBO, DC Comics, Hasbro, and Lucasfilm, Kross Studio puts entertainment and pop culture iconic elements at the heart of their designs. These exclusive creations are complemented by a Functional Art piece and form highly sought after Collector Sets. Imagination even extends beyond watches to include remarkable accessories such as table clocks, rotating cases, and travel cases, all crafted with the same dedication.
Kross Studio invites you to explore a world where timekeeping transcends the ordinary, narrating stories of innovation and the seamless fusion of art and functionality.
Kross Studio’s products are available at Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons (UAE), Al Majed (Qatar), Berger and Emwa (Mexico), Chronopassion (France), Europe Watch (Hong Kong & Macau), Pisa (Italy), Sonraj (Pakistan), Swiss Prestige (Taiwan), Watches of Switzerland (UK & USA), and on kross-studio.com.
