Sarpaneva Korona K0, Stainless Steel

The Korona K0 has become the most recognisable execution of Stepan Sarpaneva’s watchmaking vision. The model has undergone several iterations throughout its lifetime, with this stainless steel, matte-grey version appearing with an unusual dial and caseback.

Practically speaking, a unique feature of the watch is that the dive time ring is integrated within the movement itself and is operated through the crown rather than the bezel. The retro-futuristic appearance of the watch is further augmented by the luminous material in both hands and indices.

The watchmaker’s idiosyncratic and distinctive character can clearly be seen through the piece’s design. Due to the small numbers produced at the workshop, Sarpaneva himself notes that most of these are more or less custom-made, and unique in some way. Crafted from stainless steel, the angular yet subdued scalloped edges of the case are particularly eye-catching. Further to this, the dial takes inspiration from grilles, with an openworked face that gives us a glimpse into the inner workings of the watch. Stepan Sarpaneva favours the use of Soprod’s self-winding A10 in his watches, extensively modified to suit his requirements for each piece.

Meanwhile, the back of this piece features the distinctive moon face that has become synonymous with Sarpaneva’s brand, an enigmatic detail that is a repeated motif throughout nearly all his pieces. It has been suggested that the face of the moon is in fact a stylised version of Sarpaneva’s own face, but more distinctly, it is reminiscent of old school pocket watches, but with the watchmaker’s characteristic style.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Sarpaneva Korona K0 will be subject to 20% VAT.

Closer look

This Sarpaneva K0 Diver is in very good condition overall, with a few superficial marks throughout consistent with minimal wear.

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.