Kudoke is an independent German watchmaker and while I regretted missing the first few editions of the Kudoke 2, the Kudoke 2 Deep Blue is an astounding first piece for me from Stefan and Ev.
The Kudoke range comes with two series... the Handwerk and the Kunstwerk. “Kunstwerk” in German means “Work of Art” while “Handwerk” in German means “Handcraft." The development of the in-house Kaliber 1 is the basis for the Handwerk range of timepieces.
Coming right after the time-only Kudoke 1, Kudoke 2 features a Day & Night indication complication.
As the word suggests, the Handwerk Kudoke 2 is hand finished and I have to say to a very high level. The onion crown comes signed. Another interesting detail.
The stainless steel case is highly polished and comes with a stepped bezel. The classic 39mm case size fits me well. My exmaple came with a blue ostrich strap which Kudoke allowed me to choose from a range.
The Day & Night indicator located at the 12 o'clock position is no less impressive. The triangle pointer lets the owner reference if it were the day or it is night. And that deep blue hue on the dial? Absolutely mesmerising.
Half the disc is rose gold plated with the hand engraved sunburst design and the other half the starry night in grey. While mine has a rose gold (sun-side) disc, one can also opt for it to be in yellow gold plated too. But given the deep blue hue, I thought rose gold was more contrasting.
On to Kaliber 1... This in-house movement forms the basis for all Kudoke Handwerk timepieces including the just release Kudoke 3.
The manual winding Kaliber 1 provides a power reserve of 46 hours. The frosted base plate is a deft touch.
But what draws you to the movement must surely be the hand engraved balance cock.
The bevelling on the plates edges are also very well done...
Working with Kudoke is a joy as Ev (Mrs Kudoke) is very quick in her response. She is precise with her instructions and they keep to their timelines as promised. Once the 50% deposit is made, they will book a time slot in their manufacturing schedule to ensure that they keep to the deadline. When the timepiece is being tested in its final phase, Kudoke sent me a choice of straps as well as the invoice for the balance 50%.
It has been an interesting journey purchasing from Kudoke and I wish many other brands take the time to communicate even if there were delays. In fact, more so if there were delays. I have had several experiences with watch brands but Kudoke stands out in their communication by far. Overall, I am impressed by the experience I had and the Kudoke 2 Deep Blue is surely one of my favourite timepiece.
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