Hajime Asaoka Announces Kurono Tokyo Chronograph II White “Shiro”
“A very high degree of perfection and one with absolute balance.”
Hajime Asaoka has just unveiled his latest timepiece in the form of the Kurono Tokyo Chronograph II White “Shiro.”
The watch plays with layers and symmetry as the dial sees a clear lacquer sandwiching the black-printed telemeter scale that surrounds the red-printed tachymeter scale which then circles the stud-like indices, dual recessed azurage finished subdials, and raised date aperture. The time is displayed using the signature Kyudo arrow hands.
As Asaoka explains: “This watch is my personal desire. In 2021 I really wanted to release a white chronograph but was forced to launch only black. As a small independent, we are limited in the number of movements we can procure. In the year since the first prototype, I’ve been wearing it myself, figuring out improvements, and then making many new dial samples. As a result, I’m proud to say I have created a dial with a very high degree of perfection and one with absolute balance. Looking back, it was good that the delay allowed me to release something exceptionally complete. I am very happy to be able to make this deferred desire a reality.”
There’s no display back, but the watch is powered by a Seiko SII NE86A chronograph movement. This movement features 331 parts, 34 jewels, and has a power reserve of 45 hours. While it is not the most complex or decorated movement, it does keep the watch well below the price of some of Asaoka’s bespoke watches that start in the $40,000 USD range. This Kurono Tokyo Chronograph II White “Shiro” will be offered in limited quantity and is priced at $3,680 USD.
In other watch news, Michael Jordan wore a custom URWERK UR-220 to the NBA 2022 All-Star Game.
