Introducing Kari Voutilainen Unveils The Unique Piece 28 Kohan

Kari Voutilainen presents a new one-of-a-kind creation: the Voutilainen 28 Kohan. Named after the Japanese word for "lakeside" a tribute to the theme of the watch this exceptional timepiece was commissioned by a Finnish private client to celebrate his deep affection for his wife on her birthday. The Voutilainen 28 Kohan Unique Piece is a true fusion of cultures, combining the intricate urushi lacquer and maki-e techniques of Japanese master Tatsuo Kitamura with traditional hand-engraving, enamelling, and Voutilainen’s signature philosophy of longevity, precision, and classical watchmaking.

Crafted as a complete work of horological art, the watch draws inspiration from the autumnal landscapes of Finland’s Lake Saimaa. Every detail has been carefully designed to reflect Finnish national symbols, subtly interwoven throughout the piece.

Housed in a 37 mm white gold case, the 28 Kohan showcases artistry on both sides of its hinged cover. The exterior features hand-engraved and enamelled depictions of a Seven-spot Ladybird, the national insect of Finland resting on the leaf of the Silver Birch, the country's national tree. The inner side reveals delicate Lily of the Valley flowers and two Holly Blue butterflies, Finland’s national flower and butterfly, respectively. The blossoms are crafted from hand-sliced mother-of-pearl, with each petal individually shaped. Depending on the light and viewing angle, the colours of the petals, butterfly wings, and surrounding details shift subtly, adding depth and enchantment to the design.

Personalised touches enrich the case, including the engraved birthday of the collector's wife, a detailed map of Finland, and a bear paw Finland’s national animal symbolising strength and resilience. The crown is set with Finland’s national stone, granite, whose natural red and black tones complement the overall artistry of the watch. Completing the design are Voutilainen’s signature teardrop lugs and a slim, polished bezel.

The dial is a masterpiece in itself. Crafted according to the client’s wishes, it depicts a lakeside scene inspired by the archipelago of Lake Saimaa, with shimmering water and the vivid colours of Finnish autumn foliage. Hundreds of shell fragments, meticulously cut from green-turban and abalone shells, are sorted by colour, sheen, and shape before being combined with hand-cut fine gold, platinum, and coloured lacquer. These elements are layered within multiple coats of urushi lacquer applied like a mille-feuille and carefully hand-polished at each stage. 

The result is a textured surface reminiscent of river pebbles, with delicate plays of light and shadow that shift as the watch moves. The dial’s sky also transforms depending on lighting: under bright conditions, it reveals a vivid blue sky with drifting clouds, while in the shade, it deepens into a serene night sky where the water’s surface softly reflects the moonlight, a visual effect created using a proprietary technique kept secret by the artisans.

Powering the Voutilainen 28 Kohan is the in-house Calibre 28 218RSV, equipped with a large 13.5 mm balance wheel crafted entirely in-house for optimal precision. Beating at 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz), this movement features an innovative double-wheel escapement that delivers direct impulses to the balance wheel through jewels. This construction enhances energy efficiency compared to traditional Swiss lever escapements and offers superior longevity, stability, and power reserve.

Every component of the movement is meticulously finished by hand: pinions and wheels are mirror-polished to exact tolerances, main plates and bridges are hand-decorated, and all screws and steel components are polished to perfection. Adding to its uniqueness, the main plate and bridges are adorned with urushi lacquer, echoing the dial's lakeside motif. A white gold power reserve indicator shaped like a Vichy water bottle adds a charming, personalised touch. The movement offers a power reserve of approximately 65 hours.

Completing this exceptional creation is a hand-stitched green crocodile leather strap, secured with a white gold buckle.

For more information, visit Kari Voutilainen official website.