Kartell K-VIT Times Branch Mono Basin Mixer – Chrome (TAP081TI)

Kartell K-VIT Times Branch Mono Basin Mixer – Chrome (TAP081TI)

The Kartell K-VIT Times range pairs crosshead handles with slim, modern shapes — the handles marked with red and blue rings so it is obvious which is which. Kartell call it “effortless sophistication” with “timeless character”, and that is the right idea: it is not a reproduction period tap, but it is not a hard-edged contemporary one either. It sits comfortably in a modern bathroom and equally well in an older house.

This is the branch mono basin mixer: the low-profile member of the range, with the hot and cold handles branching out either side of a short spout.

Branch or swan-neck?

The branch sits much closer to the basin than the Times mono basin mixer, which has a tall swan-neck spout that swivels.

Pick the branch where a tall tap would look out of proportion or simply will not fit — a small basin, a cloakroom, or a vanity with a mirror or shelf close behind. Clearance above the basin is the thing people forget to measure.

The trade-off is the same as any short spout: water lands nearer the back of the bowl, and there is less room to get a jug or a pair of hands underneath.

The waste is sold separately on this one — unlike the swan-neck version, which includes a click waste.

Two handles rather than one

Crosshead handles mean you set hot and cold separately, which is slower than a single lever but gives finer control. Some people much prefer it; others find it fiddly with soapy hands. Worth knowing which camp you are in before ordering.

Water pressure

Suitable for low pressure systems, so it works on gravity-fed plumbing as well as combi and mains pressure.

Living with it

The ceramic disc cartridges with quarter-turn operation give full flow from a small movement of the handle, and are far less likely to drip than traditional washer taps. Crosshead taps were the classic dripper; these should not be.

Polished chrome needs nothing more than a wipe with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners and do not leave limescale remover to soak — both cut through the plating, and dull chrome cannot be brought back.

The rest of the Times range

The range also includes the taller swan-neck mono basin mixer with click waste, a pair of basin pillar taps, a pair of bath pillar taps, a bath filler and a bath shower mixer.

Specification

• Code: TAP081TI
• Polished chrome, gloss finish
• Solid brass construction
• Ceramic disc cartridge, quarter turn operation
• Two crosshead handles, hot and cold marked
• Compact branch body
• Deck mounted, one tap hole
• 1/2" BSP flexi hose connections
• Suitable for low water pressure systems
• Weight 1.76kg
• Fixings supplied
• Waste sold separately
• Lifetime guarantee (1 year on moving parts)
• Barcode 5060168228772

Downloads

Download the technical data sheet