Kilogram Prototype

The result of months of careful development, the Kilogram Prototype represents a piece of history, a conversation starter, and the perfect example of how even things we believe to be constant are ever changing.

In 1889, scientists created the International Prototype Kilogram from costly platinum and iridium alloy that served as the standard for this unit of measure that was embraced throughout most of the world. The cylinder was kept in a vault in Paris to ensure that the mass of this volatile object remained consistent. For 130 years, the IPK served as the basis for calibration of every other kilogram mass standard throughout the globe. In 2019, as part of the redefinition of the SI base units, the kilogram was instead defined based on fundamental physical constants.

To commemorate the important role and lengthy service of the IPK, DeskTech created their own version of the Kilogram Prototype. Made from tungsten with a corrosion-resistant nickel-plated finish, this Kilogram Prototype is a meticulous feat of engineering, with chamfers designed to match the angles of the original prototype. Tungsten has the highest melting point of any metal at 6,170°F, making it very difficult to work with, but it also has the right density for a cylinder that's almost the same size as the original and has the right weight.

This version is just the Prototype cylinder so you can get tactile—you will most likely never encounter anything this size that weighs this much.