A Japanese watch brand resurrected by an independent master watchmaker has just unveiled an exceptional piece. With its chronometer certification obtained in France and its sleek design, it shakes up the codes of traditional watchmaking. Discover all the details of this unique timepiece that combines Swiss precision and Japanese elegance.
An unexpected renaissance under the leadership of a master watchmaker
The world of watchmaking is witnessing a rare event: the resurrection of a brand that had disappeared for more than half a century. Takano, founded in 1957 and active only until 1962, is making a grand return to the forefront. This renaissance is the work of Hajime Asaoka, a key figure in Japanese independent watchmaking.
Asaoka, known for his Project T tourbillon and his Kurono Tokyo brand, decided to breathe new life into Takano by infusing it with his unique style and exceptional know-how. This ambitious project demonstrates the master watchmaker's desire to perpetuate the Japanese watchmaking heritage while propelling it into modernity.
A sleek design that hides a technical feat
Takano’s new creation, called the Chateau Nouvelle Chronometer, comes in the form of an elegant dress watch. Its 37 mm diameter stainless steel case features Zaratsu polishing, a Japanese technique renowned for giving metal surfaces a perfect mirror finish.
Two versions are available: one with a black dial, the other with a white dial. In both cases, the design is minimalist and refined. The finely chiseled syringe-shaped hands perfectly match the dot-shaped indexes and the gridded sectors that punctuate the dial. This refined aesthetic, a signature of Asaoka's style, gives the watch a timeless elegance.
A historic first for Japanese watchmaking
Beyond its attractive aesthetics, the Chateau Nouvelle Chronometer marks the history of Japanese watchmaking. It becomes the first Japanese watch to obtain chronometer certification from the Besançon Observatory in France. This distinction, usually reserved for high-end Swiss watches, attests to the exceptional precision of the movement.
The 90T caliber, an automatic movement offering 40 hours of power reserve, had to pass a battery of rigorous tests to obtain this prestigious certification. Its precision, stability and resistance to variations in temperature and position were meticulously evaluated over several days.
A transparent background that reveals the secrets of the movement
Mechanical watch enthusiasts will appreciate the transparent case back of the Chateau Nouvelle Chronometer. It allows you to admire the 90T movement in action, with its careful finishing and its automatic winding rotor.
An intriguing detail catches the eye: an engraving representing a snake's head. Far from being a simple ornament, this motif attests to the chronometer certification obtained from the Besançon Observatory. It is an original nod to the French watchmaking tradition, skillfully integrated into the Japanese design of the watch.
A price that reflects the exclusivity of the piece
The Chateau Nouvelle Chronometer will be marketed at a price of €5,900. This price, although substantial, reflects the exclusive nature of this exceptional piece. It is necessary to take into account the chronometer certification, rare for a Japanese watch, as well as the artisanal know-how implemented in its manufacture.
The watch will be available for sale soon. Collectors and fine watch enthusiasts are advised to keep a close eye on Takano’s official website to not miss its release. Given Hajime Asaoka’s status in the world of independent watchmaking, it is highly likely that this edition will sell out quickly.
A bridge between tradition and modernity
The Chateau Nouvelle Chronometer is much more than just a watch. It embodies the encounter between Japanese watchmaking heritage and Swiss precision standards. By resurrecting Takano, Hajime Asaoka demonstrates his desire to preserve his country’s watchmaking history while propelling it into the future.
This unique piece will appeal to lovers of beautiful timepieces looking for an original alternative to traditional watch brands. It symbolizes the excellence of contemporary Japanese watchmaking and proves that Japan has its place among the great watchmaking nations.
The Chateau Nouvelle Chronometer stands out as one of the most fascinating watch launches of the year. Its sleek design, prestigious certification and the history it carries make it a unique piece that will not fail to make an impression in the world of fine watchmaking.
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