Hajime Asaoka, Otsuka Lotec, and Kazua Maeda are among the finalists at GPHG this year
Whether it is the artistic discipline of ikebana or the mindful application of wabi-sabi, the Japanese have a particular way of doing things that sets them apart from the rest of the world. It is an endlessly fascinating aspect that extends even to the timepieces they create.
Uniquely Japanese elements seep into every creation, be it from a major name like Seiko or an independent watchmaker such as Naoya Hida. Both command a cult-like following for their craftsmanship comparable to, if not better than, their more famous Swiss counterparts. The creative artistry often leaves one in complete awe—think a minute repeater replicating the sound emitted by a traditional wind chime or the highly prized urushi lacquer using sap from a tree.
Read more: Japanese watches with hidden superpowers
This year, there are three timepieces by independent Japanese watchmakers among the finalists at GPHG, touted as the Oscars of watchmaking. Let’s get acquainted with the watchmakers and their nominated timepieces.
Hajime Asaoka
Hajime Asaoka
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Men’s nominee: Tsunami “Art Deco”
The most famous name among the three, Hajime Asaoka is a self-taught watchmaker who has been making watches since 2005. Proving to be a natural talent, he would release an original tourbillon wristwatch, the first from Japan, only four years later. Asoaka is a member of the Académie Horlogère des Créateurs Indépendants, a community of independent watchmakers committed to the preservation of traditional watchmaking and the development of new talents.
See also: Konstantin Chaykin sets a new record in ultra-thin watches
