Introduction
Founded in 2018 as a means for legendary Japanese watchmaker Hajime Asaoka to create serial production pieces, Kurono Tokyo stands as one of the most exciting microbrands in today's watchmaking industry. With Hajime's reputation as an exceptional watchmaker secured from decades of recognition for designing one-off timepieces in close collaboration with his clients, it was never in doubt that his serial production brand would take off. Launched in 2020 as a very real testament to that success, the Chronograph 1 was, as its name suggests, the brand's first chronograph model. Designed with art deco stylistic inspiration and Kurono's own standout details in mind, the Chronograph 1 was an immediate hit. Debuting with three dial variants, black on white (panda) and white on black (reverse panda), and the present "CHRONO Tokyo" dial and its reverse, which was made exclusively for the Japanese market through their original retailer in Japan, TicTAC, in a one-shot production of 100 pieces.
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Grade
M 9.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Papers
Est. value range
$2,500 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
Kurono Tokyo
Dimensions
38mm
Model
Chronograph 1
Movement
Automatic cal. NE86A
Reference
CH002W
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
2020
Condition
Like-New
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, box, and papers
Dial Color
Black (reverse panda)
THE DIAL
With Art Deco inspiration, Kurono Tokyo gave the Chronograph 1's dial a vertical guilloche pattern for its centre like that of pinstriping, and Kurono's signature polished hour marker studs. As one of the 200 examples made specifically for the Japanese Domestic Market (100 of each colorway), this example's dial features the "Chrono Tokyo" signature at 12 o'clock.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Inspired by the design eras of the past, the Chronograph 1's stainless steel physical construction is reminiscent of vintage watches of old with its heavily domed sapphire crystal, polished bezel, and pump pushers.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in like new condition, little to no signs of wear.
Our Perspective
Blending Art Deco inspiration with Kurono's own signature design elements and modern horological manufacturing, the Chronograph 1 stands to celebrate the journey the modern watchmaking industry has gone on since its inception with its beautiful dial and old-world construction.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
