The Art of Monochrome: Christian Coigny and Elka Watch Co. Unveil an Exclusive Collection in Geneva.
The Diorama exhibition space in Geneva is set to become the stage for a major artistic collaboration this autumn. From November 4 to December 10, renowned Swiss photographer Christian Coigny and Hakim El Kadiri, founder of the watch brand Elka Watch Co., are joining forces to present “Noir et Blanc” (Black and White), an exhibition celebrating the timeless aesthetic of monochrome.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Dialogue Between Light and Shadow
Christian Coigny, based near Lausanne, is celebrated for his mastery of traditional black and white photography. Coigny prioritizes analog film and darkroom work, ensuring unadulterated images that capture the pure essence of a moment. His elegant and timeless body of work spans still lifes, nudes, and landscapes, along with famous campaigns for luxury houses such as Hermès and Chopard.
“I’ve always used film… I like knowing that people are seeing a photograph that has not been altered in any way… and I will continue to do so until the end.”
This philosophy of authenticity and craftsmanship deeply resonates with the vision of Hakim El Kadiri. The collaboration brings together Coigny’s dedication to purity of image with Elka’s commitment to lasting, high-quality design.
ELKA Watch Co.: A Tribute to Photography
The watches being unveiled are two Monochrome Editions of the S Series, a genuine tribute to the black and white aesthetic:
· The Black Edition: A total immersion in shadow. This entirely black watch embodies the dramatic contrasts and bold sophistication of classic photography.
· The White Edition (Monochrome White Edition): A study of light. This entirely white piece celebrates the highlights, soft whites, and subtle gradients of a perfectly exposed image, symbolizing design clarity and purity.
Technical Details and Availability
Exclusivity and Pricing
The collection comprises four distinct models (The Black Edition and The White Edition, each offered in 40.8 mm and 36 mm sizes).
· Limited Edition: Each of the four models is strictly limited to only 100 individually numbered pieces (0/100 per model).
· Retail Price: 1855 CHF (Swiss VAT 8.1% included) per model.
Exclusive Pre-Sale and Delivery
The watches will be available for pre-sale exclusively at the Espace Diorama for the entire duration of the exhibition, marking a world exclusive. Deliveries to clients are scheduled for around December 10, 2025.
Key Technical Specifications
The collection is powered by a La Joux-Perret G101 Automatic movement (Swiss Manufacture, La Chaux-de-Fonds), offering a substantial 68-hour power reserve at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz). The crystal is a Chevé-Box Sapphire, a design that mimics the domed, warm appearance of vintage Hesalite crystals while ensuring the superior scratch resistance of sapphire.
Brand and Venue Information
The Story of Elka Watch Company
Founded by Hakim El Kadiri, a veteran of the watch industry, Elka Watch Company (re-established in 2022) draws inspiration from the aesthetics of the 1960s. The name is both Hakim’s childhood nickname and a tribute to the historic ELKA Watch Company once operated in Amsterdam. Elka’s modern collections are guided by a philosophy focused on simplicity, clarity, and human connection.
Espace Diorama
Espace Diorama is an exhibition space in the heart of Geneva where the medium of photography serves as a common thread. It is dedicated to the discovery of Switzerland’s cultural diversity and its diasporas.
