Kurono Tokyo was established by independent Japanese watchmaker Hajime Asaoka as a way of making his design language accessible beyond the extremely small production of watches bearing his own name. The Chronograph 2 arrived in 2021 as the follow-up to Kurono's first chronograph and demonstrates particularly well what makes the project distinctive: vintage Japanese influences, compact proportions and unusually elaborate dial design, delivered through serial production rather than traditional independent watchmaking.

Limited to 500 pieces, the Chronograph 2 centres on an intricate black, brown and copper-toned dial designed to react constantly to changing light. Multiple concentric sections, contrasting finishes and polished details create considerable visual depth within a restrained 38mm stainless steel case. Beneath the vintage-inspired exterior is the automatic Seiko NE86A, an integrated chronograph calibre featuring a column wheel and vertical clutch. Together with the domed sapphire crystal and traditional pump pushers, it gives the Chronograph 2 the proportions and character of a mid-century chronograph while retaining thoroughly modern mechanics.