Cheap Bastard: The K14 oozes hex appeal in neon blue for $140!

Time+Tide

Let’s talk about hex. And not in the curse way but in the cast-a-spell way. Because the hexagonal silhouette of the K14 from Klasse14 is the first thing to catch the eye. In an horological world in thrall to the circular and rectangular, this six-sided wonder is a breath of fresh aesthetic air.

As is an innate sense of mischief that lifts a funkily polished middle finger to convention. And looks damn fine doing it for the price. In fact, if you put a zero on the end of the price tag, it would probably turn many a snobbish head (and still be relatively affordable, too).

I went for the K14 blue mesh 34mm – a 40mm is also available. The blue of the Perspex casing is a proper midnight variety and just barely permeable to light. Add a dial at 10 o’clock and there’s already a sense of quirky fun that rewards an eye for detail.

The dial itself is a royal blue for the most elegant of contrasts with both the case and the hands. The addition of a white second hand prevents the whole shebang become just that bit too monochrome. There is also a sole marker at 12 o’clock in case the off-kilter design catches you unawares at a glance.

TBH, I could take or leave the admittedly discreet K14 white logo at four o’clock but hey, you’ve got to brand somehow. I got around it by telling people K14 was a mountain in the Himalaya that was on my bucket list. At which point their eyes glazed over.

It should also be pointed out that while my blue-on-blue-on-blue colour scheme carried more mono than an infections ward – too soon? – there are dozens of other colourways available with neon casings, hands offerings contrasting pops of colour and vibrant camo strap motifs.

Speaking of straps, one of the features I’m enjoying best about the K14 is the metallic mesh number that sits perfectly within the navy palette. Don’t know about you but I seriously lusted after the Milanese bracelets that came with the first series of the Apple Watch but this has scratched that itch.

Under the hood, it is powered by a Japanese Miyota Quartz Movement and is water resistant to 50 metres.

Another impressive factor for the dollars is a two-year warranty. Not to mention free worldwide seven day shipping and if you can get a refund, exchange or repair with 14 days of purchase.

Finally, look carefully on the clasp and you’ll see the name Mario Nobile. He’s the brand’s design director. Maybe commit it to memory because I reckon we’ll be hearing from him again. And not just in the budget category.

The Klasse14 K14 is available for $140 USD. For more info click here