When horological legends collide with Slavic mythology, magic happens. The Time Eater is back, and it's hungrier than ever. Two years ago, an unlikely partnership between Swiss heritage brand Louis Erard and Russian independent watchmaker Konstantin Chaykin birthed something extraordinary—a one-eyed mechanical monster that collectors nicknamed the ‘Time Eater’. Now, after selling out faster than you could say ‘WristMonster’, this legendary collaboration returns with its most ambitious iteration yet: the Time Eater III Regulator. Below you will see the previous iterations of this collaboration.
A Tale of Two Monsters
What makes this release particularly fascinating is its dual nature. For the first time in the Louis Erard x Konstantin Chaykin saga, both brands will be selling their versions of the beast. This isn't just about expanding availability—it's about celebrating the unique creative DNA each brand brings to the collaboration.
The Louis Erard Blue Edition in a 42 mm stainless steel case embodies Swiss precision with its striking blue minutes ring and luxurious toad leather strap with contrasting blue stitching. Meanwhile, the Konstantin Chaykin Red Edition in a 39 mm stainless steel case showcases the Russian master's bold aesthetic with its fiery red accents and refined-grained calfskin strap.
The Anatomy of a WristMonster
At the heart of both timepieces lies the regulator complication—a classical horological display that separates hours, minutes, and seconds into distinct areas of the dial. But this isn't your grandfather's regulator. Chaykin's whimsical interpretation transforms the traditional layout into a living, breathing creature.
The mono-eye at 12 o'clock serves as the hours’ display, featuring a convex white disk with a hypnotic black pupil that seems to follow your every move. Below, at 6 o'clock, a toothed mouth spins endlessly, marking the seconds with predatory precision. Connecting these elements is the rebellious central minutes’ hand—a masterpiece of horological humor that flashes both a defiant finger and a rock'n'roll salute.
Technical Mastery Meets Artistic Vision
Beneath the playful exterior lies serious watchmaking. Both editions house the automatic Sellita SW266-1 regulator movement, meticulously decorated with a specially open-worked rotor bearing the Louis Erard symbol. The 38-hour power reserve ensures your monster stays alive and hungry for more than a day.
The polished stainless steel cases feature domed sapphire crystals with anti-reflective treatment, transparent case backs revealing the movement's inner workings, and water resistance to 50 meters. Every detail, from the signature Konstantin Chaykin crown to the individually numbered case back, speaks to the collaboration's commitment to both craftsmanship and collectibility.
The Art of Limited Exclusivity
With only 178 pieces of each edition—356 total timepieces—the Time Eater III represents the kind of scarcity that drives serious collectors to action. These aren't just watches; they're wearable pieces of horological art that bridge the gap between Swiss tradition and Russian avant-garde creativity.
Their entry-level pricing positions these pieces in the accessible luxury segment, making them attainable for enthusiasts who appreciate both technical prowess and artistic expression. This democratization of high-concept watchmaking is precisely what makes the Louis Erard x Konstantin Chaykin partnership so compelling.
A Legacy in the Making
As Manuel Emch, Louis Erard's brand architect, hints in his statement, this isn't the end of the story. The monster continues to evolve, the collaboration deepens, and something new is already ‘lurking out there ready to appear’. For collectors and enthusiasts, this ongoing narrative adds another layer of intrigue to an already captivating series.
The Time Eater III Regulator launches on June 18th, with the blue edition available through Louis Erard's official retailers and online boutique, while the red edition will be sold exclusively by Konstantin Chaykin. Given the track record of previous releases, those interested should act quickly—this monster waits for no one.
In an industry often criticized for playing it safe, the Louis Erard X Konstantin Chaykin collaboration stands as a testament to the power of creative risk-taking. The Time Eater III doesn't just tell time; it tells a story, evokes emotion, and challenges preconceptions about what a luxury watch should be.
Sticker Price CHF 4,450—approx USD 5,500. More info on Louis Erard here.
