
Emmanuel, known as quattro on WatchProSite, brings to light Kaj Korpela's 'Timepiece No. 1,' a hand-made rectangular tourbillon wristwatch from 2016. This article explores the unique design and craftsmanship of Korpela's creation, which, despite its horological merit, has remained largely underexposed. Emmanuel's post serves as a vital record, ensuring this independent watchmaker's work receives the attention it deserves from the collector community.















This hand-made tourbillon represents the contemporary independent watchmaking movement that has flourished over the past two decades. Without clear brand markings visible, this piece exemplifies the work of skilled independent artisans who craft unique timepieces outside the traditional Swiss manufacture system. The rectangular case form and dual-register layout suggest influences from classical Art Deco design principles, reimagined through modern independent sensibilities.
The technical execution displays characteristic hallmarks of contemporary independent work: a prominently displayed tourbillon escapement at 6 o'clock, integrated into a clean dual-register dial configuration. The rose gold case construction and hand-finished details reflect the artisanal approach favored by independent makers who prioritize craftsmanship over industrial production volumes. The movement architecture, visible through the open tourbillon window, appears to feature traditional Swiss escapement geometry with contemporary finishing techniques.
Independent tourbillons occupy a unique market position, typically commanding prices that reflect their limited production and hand-crafted nature. These pieces appeal to collectors seeking exclusivity beyond mainstream luxury brands, often representing exceptional value compared to manufacture equivalents. The rectangular case format distinguishes this piece from the predominantly round independent market, potentially increasing its appeal to collectors focused on distinctive case architectures. Without established brand recognition, valuation depends heavily on movement quality and finishing standards.
well that'w what I think. Itβs comparable to having a very beautiful painting and not hanging it on a wall, but keeping it in a cabinet so you never see it ... only when you open the cabinet, or in other words, when you take off your watch and turn it over. Beauty must be seen. That aside ... I don't think I saw that watch before so thanks for showing it. And I have to say I like it a lot and Kudos to real independent watchmakers that make something from scratch
beauty which must be seen, and I know that I might be in the minority but I feel differently because what Iβm looking for in a watch first and foremost is an understated, familiar, elegant, time-telling device. For that reason, I donβt want the technical ingenuity and beauty to come in the way and I almost always prefer solid dials. For example, I love the 1142 chronograph caliber of my Cornes de Vache, but I wouldnβt like it at all to be visible through an open dial: looking at it when I take m
Best, Emmanuel
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