YUKAGE KAJIWARA & KENSUKE MURATAE - What we seek in a wristwatch. ~ "What We Want in a Wristwatch.
If we just want to check the time, our smartphones are sufficient. What is the role of the wristwatch in this day and age? Creative director Yoshikage Kajiwara and URBS brand manager Kensuke Murate discuss, centered on the Seiko Prospex DiverScuba, produced by LOWERCASE.
Born in 1979. He has worked for "Urban Research" since his student days. After working as a store manager, buyer, and brand director, he is currently the brand manager of "URBS (Urban Research Buyer's Select)," a new online store that the company operates.
Right: Yoshikage Kajiwara / LOWERCASE Representative, Creative Director
Born in 1965, he became an independent creative director after working for "BEAMS". After working for BEAMS, he became an independent creative director, and in November 2015, he launched the contents site "Ring of Colour" with Hiroshi Fujiwara, and has recently been involved in consulting for new businesses for apparel-related companies.
Arranged in a smaller size. It can be worn casually and easily.
A new model of "DiverScuba" by Seiko Prospex, which you have been working on, is now available in a smaller size than before. Could you tell us about the aim of this new model?
marshlandIn the recent fashion trend, I had a feeling that I wanted to wear a slightly smaller wristwatch, like a boy's size. I thought it would be nice to have such a watch as one of the options, so I planned a model with a smaller size while maintaining the design of the previous DiverseCuba watches.
villagerIn fashion, the oversized trend has continued for a long time, but the trend is toward minimalism and simplicity. As fashion becomes more so, I think that simple watches that can be worn casually and easily will also fit the trend.
Common specifications: solar recharge function / reinforced plastic outer case protector / stainless steel case / silicon strap / water-resistant to 200m / limited to 2,000 pieces each / left: STBR009 ¥40,000+TAX middle: STBR008 ¥50,000+TAX right: STBR007 ¥40, 000+TAX Right: STBR007 ¥40,000+TAX
The right is the conventional model and the left is the new one. The case has been downsized from 45.9mm to 42.7mm in width and 12.1mm to 11.5mm in thickness, and the silicon strap has been made shorter to match the case size.
marshlandOf course, there are some styles that deserve a watch with more presence, such as the traditional model. However, depending on the style, that may be too matchy-matchy. Neither is the right answer, but we hope to propose something that fits the style of the moment.
villagerAbove all, it is good to have more options.
marshlandYes, I do. A single watch can change the impression of a coordinated look.
villagerIncidentally, based on this downsized model, we also produced a collaboration model with "FREEMANS SPORTING CLUB," a brand we are developing in Japan.
Seiko Prospex Diver Scuba LOWERCASE Special Edition FREEMANS SPORTING CLUB Exclusive Model
Specs: Solar charging function / Reinforced plastic outer body protector / Stainless steel case / Silicon strap / Water resistant to 200m air diving / STBR013 ¥45,000+TAX (scheduled for release on December 1, 2018)
marshlandThe "Freemans Sporting Club" models are always incredibly popular.
villagerYes, they are. Not only the collaboration models, but also the inline models are very popular. I think they fit well with what the customers of Freeman's Sporting Club are looking for in a wristwatch. The watches are not only well-designed, but also have excellent toughness, and the price is very reasonable. Personally, I was surprised to find such a high quality watch at such a reasonable price.
Three different colors. Recommended coordination for each color.
Can you give us a recommended coordination for each color?
marshlandThe model with red bezel (STBR009) goes well with casual and sporty styles. It is also recommended for those who like the details of a sports watch. The blue and gold model (STBR008) has a mature look and can be matched with suit styles. The black and silver model (STBR007) is very versatile and can be matched to any style. All of the colors are best worn with a simple style, such as a turtleneck knit and thick pants.
villagerYes, it is. This small-sized watch is better worn with a minimalist style, such as a one-tone look, rather than a cluttered, layered style.