Jiro Katayama, the esteemed Japanese horologist behind Ōtsuka Lōtec, has revealed his latest creation, the No. 9 watch. This exceptional timepiece stands out with its industrial-inspired rectangular casing, featuring a unique array of complications. The design emphasizes both intricate mechanics and ergonomic comfort, making it a notable addition to high-end watchmaking. The No. 9 is a testament to precision and innovative engineering, incorporating elements that distinguish it within the luxury watch market. Its sophisticated mechanisms are not only functional but also a visual spectacle, reflecting Katayama's vision of a watch as a miniature industrial marvel. This release follows his earlier success with the No. 5 KAI, building on a reputation for distinct and mechanically complex timepieces.
The watch's internal workings are powered by the in-house Cal. SSGT manual-winding caliber, which comprises 278 components, including 30 jewels and five tiny ball bearings. These components operate at 18,000 vibrations per hour, ensuring accuracy and fluid motion. The use of custom 2.5 mm ruby bearings and the world's smallest 1.5 mm steel bearings, sourced from MinebeaMitsumi, plays a crucial role in minimizing friction and enhancing the watch's durability and performance. This meticulous selection of materials and components underscores the dedication to engineering excellence and the pursuit of horological perfection that defines Ōtsuka Lōtec.
Exceptional Design and Advanced Complications
The Ōtsuka Lōtec No. 9 showcases a remarkable blend of traditional watchmaking and modern industrial design, encapsulated in its 44mm x 30mm rectangular stainless steel case. The dial's right side is thoughtfully arranged with stacked hour and minute discs, illuminated by an integrated luminous block to ensure clear visibility in low-light conditions. This innovative display is complemented by a curved solid-steel caseback and a 26mm calfskin strap, designed to provide superior comfort for the wearer. The watch's aesthetic appeal is further enhanced by its visible mechanical movements, which Katayama intended to evoke the textures, vibrations, and sounds of industrial machinery. This approach creates a dynamic visual experience, inviting observers to appreciate the intricate dance of gears and springs. The overall design emphasizes functionality without compromising on elegance, making the No. 9 a distinctive piece that bridges the gap between mechanical art and practical timekeeping.
Central to the No. 9's allure are its sophisticated complications, which engage in a synchronized ballet at the top of each hour. The jumping-hour disc advances instantaneously, providing a clear and precise hour indication. Simultaneously, the retrograde minute disc, powered by a central hairspring, snaps back to its starting position with a crisp action. Adding to this mechanical symphony, a small hammer strikes a unique pipeline-shaped gong, producing a clear and resonant chime. Below these dynamic displays, an off-center tourbillon continuously rotates, animating the lower portion of the dial and serving as a hypnotic focal point. A subtle indicator positioned slightly to the right of the dial's center monitors the watch's approximately 40-hour power reserve, keeping the wearer informed of its operational status. These features collectively highlight the watch's technical prowess and Katayama's innovative spirit, offering a captivating demonstration of complex horological engineering.
Precision Engineering and Craftsmanship
At the heart of the Ōtsuka Lōtec No. 9 is the meticulously developed in-house Cal. SSGT manual-winding movement, a marvel of miniaturized engineering comprising 278 individual components. This caliber is a testament to the high standards of precision upheld by Ōtsuka Lōtec, with each part contributing to the watch's flawless operation. The movement features 30 jewels and five tiny ball bearings, all working in harmony to reduce friction and enhance the longevity and accuracy of the timepiece. The choice of materials for these critical components is particularly noteworthy, including custom-made 2.5 mm ruby bearings and the world's smallest 1.5 mm steel bearings, supplied by MinebeaMitsumi. These specialized bearings are strategically placed to support the hour-disc shaft and hammer pivot, ensuring ultra-low friction and smooth, consistent performance. Such attention to detail in material selection and component integration underscores the dedication to creating a watch that is not only beautiful but also exceptionally robust and reliable.
Jiro Katayama's philosophy for the No. 9 watch was to create a piece that visibly celebrated its mechanical nature, much like an induction electric meter allows one to observe its internal workings. He aimed to design a watch where every moving part beneath the sapphire crystal would convey the essence of industrial machinery, from its intricate textures to its subtle vibrations and distinct sounds. This vision is realized through the careful arrangement and operation of its various complications, offering a transparent glimpse into the artistry of mechanical watchmaking. The watch is also built for practical use, featuring a water resistance rating of 3 ATM. Priced at ¥17,600,000 JPY (approximately $118,890 USD), the No. 9 is proudly manufactured in Japan, reflecting a commitment to local craftsmanship and quality. Each watch comes with a one-year warranty, guaranteeing its superior performance and construction. It is available for purchase directly through Ōtsuka Lōtec's official website, providing enthusiasts with direct access to this exquisite horological creation.