Kallinich Claeys
Independents

Kallinich Claeys "Einser": Independent Watch Overview

By quattro · Jan 23, 2026 · 27 replies
quattro
WPS member · Independents forum
27 replies2030 views40 photos
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quattro's comprehensive post introduces WatchProSite readers to Kallinich Claeys and their inaugural timepiece, the "Einser." This article delves into the brand's origins, highlighting the founders' A. Lange & Söhne heritage and the intricate details of their first watch. Emmanuel's detailed presentation, complete with high-quality images, serves as an essential reference for collectors interested in independent watchmaking and the distinctive German style.

Thanks to Bruno.M1's post, I discovered Johannes Kallinich and Thibault Claeys, two former A. Lange & Söhne watchmakers who have started their own brand.

Their first watch is called the "Einser", a name derived from the German word "Eins", meaning "first" or "number one", as it marks the beginning of their watchmaking journey.

The watch features a 41 x 11 x 48,5 mm case with a sapphire opening on the case band revealing an innovative power reserve indicator.

The caliber KC001.1 beats at 18,000 vph (2.5 Hz) and is very finely hand finished.

Four different iterations of this watch have been made to date.


A/ EINSER Central Seconds Founders Edition

Limited to 8 pieces - Steel case

Dial: hammered outer ring with minuterie and Roman numerals - hand engraved centre dial - hand engraved inner excentric circle with tremblage finishing









Note the hand-engraved balance cock, featuring their signature "Shark Gill" engraving








credit: Monochrome, Revolution & Kallinich Claeys



B/ EINSER Central Seconds

Limited to 22 pieces - Steel case

Dial: hammered outer ring with minuterie and Roman numerals - guilloché centre dial - hand engraved inner excentric circle with tremblage finishing










credit: Monochrome, Revolution & Kallinich Claeys 



C/ EINSER Central Seconds Hongkong Edition

Limited to 10 pieces made in collaboration with A Watch Company, a Hong Kong retailer specializing in independent watchmaking

Steel case - Dial: hammered outer ring with minuterie and Roman numerals - guilloché centre dial - hand engraved inner excentric circle with tremblage finishing


















credit: thetimeproduction & Kallinich Claeys



D/ EINSER Voyager

Limited to 20 pieces - White gold case

Dial designed with the influences of Lee Yuen-Rapati (@onehourwatch) and hand engraved by master engraver Helmut Wagner:

  • circular grained outer ring with applied indices, finished with polished chamfers and straight graining on top
  • hand-engraved centre inspired by the astronomical heritage of Dresden (“Voyagerstar-travel motif)
  • hand engraved inner circle with new "warp effect" pattern
New crown




















credit: Monochrome & Kallinich Claeys



BONUS: The Johannes Kallichin Meisterwerk 

The first watch made alone by Johannes Kallinich, while he was still working at A. Lange & Söhne














credit: @johannes.kallinich



THE WATCHMAKERS

Johannes Kallinich (left) & Thibault Claeys (right)


credit: @kallinichclaeys


Thanks for reading.

Best, Emmanuel

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AU
AuHavrePro
Jan 23, 2026

Of the various editions, the Hong Kong edition is my favorite due to it's more uniform dial appearance, but my true favorite here is the JK Meisterwerk. It has something about it reminiscent to me of the PLM Richard Lange . Thank you very much Emmanuel for this splendid pictorial! Cheers, Filip

QU
quattro
Jan 23, 2026

but I have mixed feelings. I don’t really like the lateral PR indicator and even if the movement is very nicely designed and finished, its German style speaks to me less than the traditional Swiss style. That said, I love their needle seconds hand and the “brutalist” design of the Founders Edition. The Meisterwerk is definitely VERY reminiscent of a PLM Richard Lange and I personally feel a lack of originality here. Anyway, interesting and high quality work. Best, Emmanuel

AU
AuHavrePro
Jan 23, 2026

is dead-on. I'm afraid I wouldn't rather have it over a RL. Likewise, I too prefer traditional Swiss finishing. 🙏

CL
Clueless_Collector
Jan 24, 2026

I do like the PR window on the contrary, makes it look interesting like FB’s. I had the chance to get one of 22 original pieces but hesitated, of course regretted since. Actually prefer the new WG version to have some heft and really love the work they do, excited to see what else they can come up in the pipeline. Met them at DWW recently and enjoyed the experience and seeing the watches.

QU
quattro
Jan 24, 2026

The two first models were priced very reasonably and definitely understand why you have some regrets. The new white gold seems impressive too. Like you, the side window made me think of the FB3. As you say: let's wait and see what they do next. Best, Emmanuel

BR
Bruno.M1
Jan 24, 2026

As said I visited them and it was such a great welcome Like said in my post, the way how they “made” their own CNC system is something I’ll remember forever Later that day we had dinner and these 2 guys are very passionate but also so enjoyable to talk with !

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