Kaari: A Minimalist Analogue Watch Design

Introducing a Unique Way to Indicate Time

Nowadays, the market is flooded with both analogue and digital watches. While digital watches have embraced creativity and innovation in their time-telling methods, analogue watches have made few advancements in this aspect. Kaari aims to change that by introducing a 24-hour mechanism with a half-speed hour hand, offering a different way to indicate time within the analogue watch category.

What sets Kaari apart is its two arc-shaped die cuts on the watch face, through which the turning hour and minute hands can be seen. The hour hand, designed as a disc, is divided into two segments of different colors. As it rotates, it indicates whether it is AM or PM, depending on the color that becomes visible. The minute hand is visible through the larger radius arc and determines the corresponding minute slot on the inner and outer radius of the arc.

The Kaari watch is made with a black stainless steel case and a silicone rubber strap, giving it a sleek and modern look. With dimensions of 38-40 mm, it is suitable for both men and women.

This design is based on a standard 24-hour analogue mechanism with a half-speed hour hand. The hour hand's disc is divided into two equal segments of different colors, indicating AM or PM hours depending on the color that starts becoming visible. The line between these two color segments points to the exact hour. The minute hand, with its 360-degree movement per hour, indicates the minutes with its solid part.

Operating the Kaari watch is simple and intuitive. The watch face is transformed into an upper layer that allows users to see the rotation of both hands. Additionally, the use of color enables users to easily distinguish between AM and PM hours. With its minimalist, curious, innovative, and smart design, Kaari offers customers a unisex analogue watch with several models to choose from.

The Kaari watch design project started in December 2013 and was completed in March 2014 in Madrid. Throughout the design process, the main challenge was to find a way to bring innovation while maintaining readability and feasibility. By utilizing a 24-hour mechanism and exploring its hidden potential, Kaari successfully offers a fresh perspective on analogue watches.

In recognition of its outstanding design and innovation, Kaari was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2014. This prestigious award celebrates designs that showcase exceptional expertise, creativity, and technical characteristics, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.