Minase, a workshop based in Minase, Akita Prefecture, unveiled a "pocket watch" based on the concept of Japanese craftsmanship. The 12-sided case, polished with Zaratsu finish, incorporates traditional techniques such as maki-e (gold lacquer) and the black rust effect of Japanese swords, creating an art piece that embodies a distinctly Japanese sensibility and aesthetic. Two models are available, each featuring the "Asagi-madara" butterfly (a migratory butterfly) and the "Houou" (phoenix), and are offered in stainless steel and 18K gold variations. All models are made to order.
A pendant watch that embodies the essence of Japanese craftsmanship, a signature piece from Minase.
Japanese watch brand Minase has unveiled a new collection titled "Timeless Japanology." This time, the brand chose to express unique Japanese craftsmanship through a "pocket watch" rather than a wristwatch. Traditional techniques such as Zaratsu polishing, maki-e lacquerware, and the black patina of Japanese swords are condensed into a 12-sided form.
Manual winding (Cal. KT5002). Power reserve of approximately 162 hours. Stainless steel case (39mm diameter, approximately 11.0mm thickness). 770 yen (tax included). Made to order.
Manual winding (Cal. KT5002). Power reserve approximately 162 hours. 18K gold case (39mm diameter, approximately 11.0mm thickness). Price upon inquiry. Made to order.
One of the highlights of this collection is the maki-e dial created by lacquer artist Junichi Hakose. Two motifs, the "Asagi-madara butterfly" and the "phoenix," are depicted with exquisite craftsmanship.
The Asagi-madara butterfly is a butterfly that travels 1500km across the sea, and the design of this pendant watch embodies the craftsman's wish that it will serve as a bridge between cultures. To represent its distinctive pure white wings, a sophisticated technique called "eggshell" is used, in which finely crushed quail eggshells are arranged.
Manual winding (Cal. KT5002). Power reserve of approximately 162 hours. Stainless steel case (39mm diameter, approximately 11.0mm thickness). 770 yen (tax included). Made to order.
Manual winding (Cal. KT5002). Power reserve approximately 162 hours. 18K gold case (39mm diameter, approximately 11.0mm thickness). Price upon inquiry. Made to order.
On the other hand, the Phoenix model features a meticulously detailed depiction of the legendary mythical bird, said to herald peace and prosperity, down to the finest downy feathers that are invisible to the naked eye. The eyes are added at the end of a process that takes several months, giving the dial an overwhelming presence that makes it seem as if it has come to life.
Furthermore, traditional Japanese craftsmanship is evident in the case back and the hanging loop for the strap. The material used is precious "tamahagane," refined using the tatara ironmaking method. Swordsmith Ishida Kunihisa forged this steel and applied the black rust (kurosabi) seen on the tangs (nakago) of Japanese swords.
This black rust, through repeated handling and care, will gradually transform into a deep, purplish black (yokan color) over a long period of 50 to 100 years. It's a romantic feature that is completed through generations of "cherishing" it.
The dodecagonal middle case is available in stainless steel or 18K gold. This polygonal form highlights the sharp edges and distortion-free surface created by Zaratsu polishing. Inside the case is the Cal.KT5002, a hand-wound movement based on the Chronode Cal.C101. It boasts a long power reserve of approximately 162 hours and offers excellent practicality as a hand-wound watch.
Please note that all models are made to order, and it will take approximately six months to a year from the time of order until the product arrives.
