Werk One
A Round Peg in a Rectangular Keyboard World
The Obvious
The design of this keyboard has clear nods to classic, retro IBM keyboards—particularly in its robust curves. Its aggressive curve might seem intimidating at first, but it’s a surprisingly comfortable fit for the typist. You get the sense that every aspect of this design is intentional, created to be as much a visual experience as a functional one.
One of the standout features is the Right Blocker Badge. Its abstract, almost cryptic design of interlocking lines and curves serves as a bold emblem for the board. It’s like a round peg defying the conventions of the rectangular, straight-laced mechanical keyboard world. Everything about it feels like a throwback with a modern twist, cleanly executed with minimalism in mind. There are no superfluous elements; everything serves a purpose. Even the USB port, which looks like an entrance to a fantasy dungeon, reflects the board’s minimalist but attention-grabbing vibe.
The Subtle
Inside, though, is a world entirely its own. Under the hood, there’s artwork—graffiti-like engravings—that makes the interior of this board feel like a canvas. From the plate and PCB to the inner case (even the small square housing the daughterboard), every component seems adorned with these etched patterns. There’s a sense of controlled expression here: just enough artistry to stand out, but without overwhelming the design.
The decision to keep these artistic details hidden away adds a layer of sophistication to the board. On the outside, it remains simple, elegant, and minimalist. But open it up, and you’re met with a splash of creativity that shows Zaum’s approach—a keyboard that maintains its clean aesthetic externally but has a vibrant personality beneath the surface.
The Unknown
Hints of past evolutions are visible within the board’s structure. A cutout on the plate and PCB suggests space for a rotary knob, while two JST ports labeled "OLED" and "dial" on the underside of the PCB indicate that the Right Blocker Badge could have served a functional purpose. The possibilities feel endless here. With a bit of ingenuity, any one of these elements could have transformed the Werk One into a completely different experience. It’s like a glimpse into an alternate reality where this board took a slightly different path—an intriguing mystery left up to the imagination.
Technical Implementation
On the technical front, the Werk One employs a standard gasket mounting system, though it opts for gasket stickers rather than silicone socks. These stickers might not be as straightforward to install, but they come with their own unique feel, offering a subtler, less intrusive effect. Positioning is a breeze with silicone pins that not only make setup easier but also prevent the plate and PCB from scratching the inner case. These pins double as dampeners, reducing any potential resonance between the top and bottom cases.
The designer’s careful placement of flex cuts in the plate further refines the typing experience, softening the feel where it’s most effective without compromising sound. The acoustic profile is balanced, delivering a consistent, muted tone that responds beautifully to heavier switches like Oil Kings and Aqua Kings. But the board can also shine with long pole switches, accentuating brightness in the sound profile while maintaining the Werk One’s uniform, harmonious auditory character.
With all these elements combined, the Werk One feels like a synthesis of modern engineering and artistic expression—a keyboard that balances aesthetics, function, and a dash of mystery.
Conclusion
I love the attention to detail that Zaum has when he created this keyboard. Every visual element was designed purposefully and tastefully.
However, if I really had to nitpick, I would have appreciated it more if the Werk One possessed a slightly wider acoustic range. While aesthetics of a keyboard is rightfully an artist’s canvas, sound profile is personal and ought to have more room for an individual’s customization. Afterall, a user is going to live with the typing feel and sound for a much longer period beyond the initial gasps of awe at the marvelous piece of art that this keyboard is.
Different types of foams, more quantity of foams, roomier inner case for mods are but some ways that I thought could have improved its utility.