Thinking Of the Time’s Birth

The painting “Thinking of the Time’s Birth” is a refined attempt by the artist to contemplate the universe as a whole—and the art of watchmaking in particular—through the lens of philosophy and theology. In this self-portrait, Konstantin Chaykin, a watchmaker and artist, the creator of the world’s thinnest watch, appears as a demiurge giving birth to new life. In his hands, the ultra-thin timepiece comes to life—symbolizing not only the genius of technical thought but also the fragile beauty of life itself.

The master’s workbench divides the canvas with precision. Its surface seems to rotate vertically, transforming into a celestial sphere. Upon it are gears, screws, and bridges, taking on the forms of the Moon, the Sun, stars, and comets. These heavenly “watch wheels” gently guide the viewer toward the idea that time was born alongside light and continues to move according to a singular divine design.

The artist employs a complex language of allegory and metaphor, skillfully intertwining the biblical theme of creation, theology, the experimental spirit of modern horology, and a subtle, almost mystical contrast between the microcosm of watch mechanisms and the boundless expanse of the cosmos. In this space, a new watch becomes a form of life, and its creator transforms into a conduit of the universe’s hidden forces. The viewer is invited to witness a grand act of creation and feel a sense of awe before the mystery—where human inspiration and the “breath” of the cosmos merge into one creative impulse. Each piece is personally signed and individually numbered by the master.

On May 10, 2025, at the Phillips auction in Geneva, Konstantin Chaykin’s painting “Thinking Of the Time’s Birth” was successfully sold for CHF 53,340, significantly exceeding its pre-sale estimate. This impressive result marks an important milestone in Chaykin’s artistic career, underscoring the significance of the event and the growing recognition of his creative achievements.