Takada Junji, known for his light-hearted talk and character, has been active in a wide range of fields, including as an actor, comedian, TV personality, and presenter. It has been 46 years since his television debut. The contrast between his dandy appearance and his carefree manner of speaking has made him popular for many years. In fact, before entering the entertainment industry, Takada Junji worked in the jewelry industry. What kind of aesthetics is hidden in the watches he chooses? This time, we take a look at his wrist.
Edited by Takashi Tsuchida
[Article published on January 19, 2025]
"Junsanpo," a show that captivates viewers with its friendliness, is celebrating its 10th anniversary
Junji Takada's signature regular program is undoubtedly "Junsanpo." This 30-minute program has been broadcast on TV Asahi affiliates in the morning hours from Monday to Friday since September 2015. The appeal of this program is its simple yet tasteful structure, in which Junji Takada delivers information while walking around spots around Tokyo. Junji Takada is the third host of this "sanpo" series, following Takeo Chii and Yuzo Kayama.
His walking style has a playful quality. He carries an instant camera and a sketchbook for drawing portraits in his bag, and as part of his "Today's Step, One Encounter" segment, he will show off portraits of people he meets on his walks, or he will show off some landscape paintings. These kinds of touches add a warmth to the show.
The secret to his popularity lies in his witty interactions with people he meets in stores and other places. In addition to his friendly character, his free-spirited, so-called "random remarks" often lead to ordinary people responding with a "boke" (funny joke). The freshness of these interactions has helped him successfully cultivate a wide audience.
Takada Junji was cast in "Junsanpo" after undergoing surgery for a herniated disc and spinal canal stenosis. In an interview when he was chosen as the third host, he said, "I wanted to do a program like this too. My life is like a walk. The right person in the right place. I want to walk for the remaining 30 years of my life. I'm looking forward to meeting people."
He also said, "I'm glad I had hernia surgery. I've strengthened my right leg, so walking is perfect. I'm in perfect health. I can still run 100 meters in about 9 seconds." It's a typical Takada Junji-esque, nonchalant comment, but perhaps it's this laid-back atmosphere that doesn't stress viewers out and is the secret to the show's continued existence for 10 years.
Before entering the entertainment industry, she was in the jewelry industry. She also worked as a jewelry designer!
But did you know about this surprising side of Junji Takada? Before he entered the entertainment industry, he had a completely different career path.
Takada Junji originally studied graphic design. Then, in 1971, after seeing a performance by the underground theater company "Jiyu Gekijo," he decided to become an actor and became a trainee. However, he left Jiyu Gekijo after one year. He then formed the theater company "Udekurabe" with Issey Ogata, but this also disbanded after about six months.
After getting married, Junji Takada faced the reality that he could not make a living on his theater company's income, so he made a decision: to get a job at a jewelry sales company. There, he gained experience that would be hard to imagine given his current position, working both as a jewelry salesman and a jewelry designer.
Perhaps it is because of this past that Junji Takada has a strong attachment to luxury watches. His favorite watches are Breguet, such as the Marine II and Type XX, which have a luxurious feel. His discerning eye may be influenced by the aesthetic sense he developed in the jewelry industry.
The Breguet masterpiece "Marine II" shines on his wrist.
Proof of this is a photo taken on September 14th, 2016, of Junji Takada with Atsushi Yanaka of Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra. In this post, Junji Takada can be seen wearing the Marine II.
Atsushi Yanaka commented, "He said, 'Let's shake hands like politicians do!'" and it's no wonder that Junji Takada is always surrounded by laughter, no matter what the occasion. Junji Takada is wearing a Breguet Marine II model with a large date function on a rubber strap. This watch is a masterpiece that incorporates sporty elements while maintaining the tradition of precision nautical timepieces. It maintains the status of luxury watches that Breguet has built over its long history, while also being practical.
Let's trace the history of the Marine collection. The first Marine was designed in 1990 by Jorg Hysek, who studied at the School of Sculpture in London before honing his watch design skills at Rolex. The second generation, the Marine II, was released in 2004. The main difference from the first generation is its size. As a result of improved water resistance, the diameter increased to 39mm, making it more practical.
The watch is equipped with the Cal. 517GG movement, which has a power reserve of approximately 65 hours. It skillfully incorporates classic Breguet design elements, such as blued steel hands and a guilloched dial reminiscent of ocean waves, with a sporty touch. The large date display at 6 o'clock in particular captivated watch enthusiasts with its fresh look.
Another thing worth noting is its thinness. At 11.82mm thick, it is thinner than a typical sports watch, making it a perfect match for elegant attire such as a suit. This is a sophisticated selection that is typical of Junji Takada, who has experience working in the jewelry industry.
The second-generation Marine, released in 2004. The Ref. 5817 is a representative model with a large date display, and is affectionately known as the "Marine II." Automatic winding (Cal. 517GG). 35 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 65 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 39mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. *This model is no longer on sale.
Garmin is my go-to for walks. I love using different watches for different occasions.
Meanwhile, Junji Takada has recently been wearing Garmin's Fenix 6 Pro, a tough outdoor smartwatch that contrasts with luxury watches.
In an interview, he said, "I quite like watches. Watches are the only thing that can tell you the time clearly and honestly (laughs). This one is supposed to measure distance traveled and heart rate, but I'm not good at using it, so I just look at the time. I also like that it's sturdy." He said he doesn't know how to operate a high-tech watch, but its sturdiness and functionality are likely intended for use on "Junsanpo." In fact, it's the perfect choice for everyday walks.
This outdoor smartwatch is equipped with GPS, an optical heart rate monitor, and various activity tracking functions. It uses solar and battery power for dual charging, eliminating the need for hassle. This model is no longer on sale, butSuccessor "Phoenix 8 Pro" serieshas been released. (Inquiries) Garmin Japan Tel. 0570-049530
What's interesting is that Junji Takada once said, "Roppongi is for Rolex, Ginza is for Breguet." This quote gives us a glimpse into his watch philosophy, which is to choose a watch depending on the destination and the occasion. The sensibility he developed in the jewelry industry is likely put to good use in selecting a watch that suits the occasion.
I hope that Junji Takada will continue to be a "careless man" and continue to be active in many fields. I would like to see him continue to be active in variety shows, dramas, and as a host, as well as "Junsanpo," with his carefree character. His style is funny, like a way to let off some steam, and it makes you laugh in any situation. It's amazing that he can still maintain that image even at an age where he's almost 80 years old.
And what kind of watches will shine on his wrist in the future? Let's continue to pay attention to Junji Takada's watch choices.
