Independent Watches Auction For Preserving Japan’s Cultural Heritage

In a homage to Japan's profound influence on global horology, Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo is poised to unveil a groundbreaking thematic auction, Toki: Watch Auction. Scheduled for November 22nd in Hong Kong, this extraordinary event will showcase an array of exceptional timepieces, each a testament to the nation's rich watchmaking legacy and the unwavering passion of its connoisseurs.

As part of this thematic auction, independent watchmakers Hajime Asaoka and Jiro Katayama have created unique pieces to benefit the Noto Charity. In response to the devastating 7.6-magnitude earthquake that struck Japan's Noto Peninsula in January 2024, they have pledged to contribute to the revival of Wajima-nuri, a distinguished example of Japanese lacquerware facing the threat of extinction.

The earthquake wreaked considerable havoc on the local economy and cultural heritage, notably affecting the historic craft of Wajima-nuri. Wajima City, situated within Ishikawa Prefecture, is celebrated for this traditional lacquerware, which has been a cornerstone of the area’s cultural identity and economic activity. Tragically, the disaster damaged roughly 80% of the 400 businesses dedicated to this artisan craft, leading to either partial or total destruction of their facilities. This has not only led to economic stagnation but also to a cultural void, given the significance of the craft to the community’s heritage.

In a commendable response to this cultural and economic crisis, popular Japanese independent watchmakers Hajime Asaoka and Jiro Katayama have stepped forward. Understanding the gravity of the situation and the risk of losing this invaluable craft to oblivion, they have initiated a charitable effort through their professional platforms. They are offering exclusive timepieces for auction, pledging to donate 100% of the proceeds towards the recovery and revitalization of Wajima-nuri.

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Takano Chateau Nouvel Chronometer “Toki”

Founded in Nagoya in 1899, Takano initially specialized in clockmaking before producing wristwatches from 1957 to 1962. Today, while the Takano trademark is owned by Ricoh Corporation, Hajime Asaoka's company Precision Watch Tokyo Co. has signed a license agreement to revive the brand. The current Chateau Nouvel Chronometer is a testament to this revival, notable for being the first Japanese watch to receive chronometer certification from the Besancon Observatory in France in the 21st century.

For the watch auction, Phillips Watches has partnered with Hajime Asaoka to create a unique piece with a mesmerizing traditional Japanese hue known as "toki iro" (the color of the Asian Crested Ibis). This auspicious bird, with feathers reminiscent of a rising sun, symbolizes happiness and good fortune in Japanese culture, making it the perfect choice for the brand's auction debut.

Ōtsuka Lōtec №6 Shinonome

As part of this noble initiative, the auction will feature a one-of-a-kind piece crafted by independent watchmaker Jiro Katayama, known for his "Otsuka Lotec" brand. Inspired by mid-20th century industrial aesthetics, the present No.6 timepiece, named "SHINONOME" (referring to the sky just before dawn), boasts a striking semi-skeletonized dial and a blackened stainless-steel case.

With imaginative engineering and scrupulous finishing, this analog-inspired timepiece revives mid-century aesthetics within a refined contemporary frame. Currently available exclusively in Japan, this auction presents a rare opportunity for collectors worldwide to acquire a unique piece made by Mr. Katayama.

Kurono Tokyo Grand Niji

Kurono Tokyo's "Grand" series pays homage to traditional Asian craftsmanship with its incredible Urushi lacquered dials. This ancient lacquer technique utilizes the filtered sap of the lacquer tree, a miraculous substance that absorbs moisture from the air as it hardens, resulting in a perpetually shiny and slick surface. The present Grand Niji "虹" is a unique piece made for the watch auction, elegantly crafted in 18K pink gold.

The dial is a marvel to behold, featuring layers of rainbow-colored Urushi crafted by Megumi Shimamoto, who has previously worked on Kurono's Urushi dials. Over time, the Urushi dial may change color, creating a unique piece of its own, a testament to the living nature of this traditional Japanese art form.