The Artifact marks a historic moment for One Drop—their first-ever release featuring a Size D bearing, and a return to the roots of yo-yo design with a modern twist.
Designed in collaboration with long-time friend and yo-yo creative Alex Whitney, the Artifact draws deep inspiration from Japanese yo-yos of the late 2000s and early 2010s. It brings that nostalgic small-bearing feel into the spotlight, now refined with today’s standards in precision, materials, and performance.
Right out of the hand, the Artifact delivers an addictive presence on the string. It’s light yet grounded, with a torque-rich feel that binds reliably even at low RPMs—a hallmark trait of the Size D bearing. That smaller diameter bearing doesn’t just enhance control; it amplifies spin and feel, creating a more intimate, responsive play experience.
Originally developed as a collaboration between Alex and Yoyocommunity in 2013, the Artifact’s design journey remained unfinished—until now. With One Drop’s expert craftsmanship and updates like a boost to 7075 aluminum, subtle hub and weight distribution tweaks, and Freshly Dirty response pads, the Artifact is finally complete.
From its V-shaped profile and mid-step rim to the distinctive feel of a tightly wound string on a small bearing, this yo-yo is unlike anything else in the One Drop lineup. It’s a tribute to the past, crafted for the present, and ready to challenge the expectations of modern play.