Violinist Takashima Chisako continues to be loved for her outspokenness. Her free-spirited personality is also reflected in the way she wears her watch. She wears it on her right wrist out of consideration for her professionalism when playing her instrument, and her Rolex GMT-Master II allows her to keep track of the time in Japan even when she's traveling. The blue-and-black bezel model, affectionately nicknamed "Batman," is a perfect fit for her outspoken personality. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Takashima's debut, and she is attracting more and more attention. We take a closer look at Takashima Chisako's love of watches.
Text by Yukaco Numamoto
Edited by Takashi Tsuchida
Edited by Takashi Tsuchida
[Article published on January 22, 2025]
Chisako Takashima, a beloved violinist
Chisako Takashima's outspoken humor has captured the hearts of many. In addition to being a violinist, she also appears on many TV shows as a TV personality and continues to be loved for her free-spirited personality. In addition to her work as a musician, she is also active as a brand ambassador.
She sometimes makes comments that spark outrage, and when her family points them out, she deeply regrets them, but her fans support her by saying, "That's just Takashima Chisako's personality." She is a beloved character. Her words and actions are fueled by her unique sense of justice, and she is never blindly angry.
For example, she used to get angry when her children were making noise on the Shinkansen, but after becoming a mother, she started to think that "it can't be helped if children cry or make noise." However, she also revealed an episode where she mercilessly scolded adults who were making loud noises in the Green Car. This way of using different emotions is one of Chisako Takashima's typical characteristics.
He is an admitted Doraemon fan, and was so passionate that he would return to Japan once a year to watch the films while studying abroad at Yale University. His favorite character is Suneo Honekawa, and he once said in an interview that "he and I have in common the way we tease people, brag, and are mean for no reason."
Speaking skills honed through talk shows and talent activities
Currently, there are two regular programs where you can enjoy the latest episodes of Takashima Chisako: "Zawatsuku! Friday" and "Platinum Family." She also makes guest appearances on variety shows, engaging in light-hearted conversation.
Her breakthrough came on "Dancing! Sanma Goten!!" Her first appearance was over 20 years ago, and even back then she was praised by the production staff for her outstanding sense of humor. Her storytelling is well-structured, with punchlines and a concise summary, and she was praised for winning the "Dancing Hit Award" three times in a row, given to the most "popular" talk throughout the show, despite it being her first appearance. This record also shows her skill as a storyteller.
A watch-wearing style unique to musicians
In a reel video posted to Instagram on April 1, 2023, he shows off his delicious Peking duck at the Peninsula Hong Kong. On his right arm, you can see a Rolex GMT-Master II with a blue-and-black bezel.
He is not left-handed, but rather wears his watch on his right arm because he fears that wearing a watch on his left hand while playing an instrument could damage the instrument. In fact, he tries not to wear a watch even while practicing. This is because he once wore a watch on his left arm and ended up damaging the instrument while playing.
Generally, many people wear their watches on their non-dominant arm, but it is also reasonable to wear one on your right arm just in case, as Takashima Chisako does. The Rolex GMT Master II worn in the reel video introduced this time seems to be one of Takashima Chisako's favorites in her collection of many luxury watches.
The appeal of Batman, chosen as a travel companion
The GMT-Master II features a rotating bezel made of high-tech ceramic, which is resistant to UV rays and corrosion, and features a Cerachrom insert. It is available in a wide range of colors, but Chisako Takashima chose a cool two-tone model in black and blue, a popular color scheme affectionately nicknamed "Batman." The GMT hand is also painted blue, the same color as the bezel, giving it a cool impression.
The bracelet can be chosen from a jubilee type or an oyster bracelet, but the one worn by Chisako Takashima is an oyster bracelet that follows the traditional design code. The style of this bracelet, along with the atmosphere of Chisako Takashima, suits her straightforward personality well.
The movement is the Cal. 3285, which has been certified as a high-precision chronometer. It features a blue Parachrom hairspring and a high-performance Paraflex shock absorber, providing excellent magnetic resistance and stability. With a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, it offers excellent practicality.
Automatic winding (Cal. 3285). 31 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 70 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 40mm). Water resistant to 100m.
30th anniversary of debut, philosophy embodied in the watch
This year is set to be even busier for Takashima Chisako, as she will be touring the country from September to March next year for a total of 36 performances on the "30th Anniversary of Debut: Takashima Chisako 12 Violinists Concert Tour." This concert, which is meant to be a culmination of her career, will also include her first performance at the Nippon Budokan.
She takes off her watch while practicing to avoid damaging her instrument, and is considerate not only when performing but also in her private life. In addition to this careful consideration, she wears highly functional men's size watches. From her watch-wearing style, which reflects her professionalism as a performer, to her choice of watch that combines practicality with individuality, Takashima Chisako's unique style is evident everywhere.
As she celebrates her 30th anniversary since her debut, she continues to captivate many with her passion for music, as well as her natural humor and charm. During her concert tour, she will likely leave her beloved "Batman" watch in her dressing room and show off her dedication to the violin across the country. Even a simple watch embodies Takashima Chisako's personality and philosophy.
