not is one of those hidden gems that Japan sometimes creates in the realm of beautiful craftsmanship. Founded in 2014 in Tokyo, the brand’s mission is to share traditional Japanese know-how and techniques with future generations, at a price that remains accessible for the high level of craftsmanship found on its personalised timepieces.

The Japanese brand, with a flagship boutique in Omotesando, likes to share the stage with some of the partners in its network, other companies specialising in traditional crafts such as Tochigi Leather, one of the few in the world to offer 100% naturally tanned leather – also with the aim of supplying Japanese quality to the world at a reasonable price.

Of course, one of the most renowned Japanese crafts is Urushi, a paint created from the sap of the lacquer tree, which we can find on Knot’s premium series, the AT-38 and ATC-40 chronograph automatic high-beat timepieces. Both new watches feature dials in vermilion-red and jet-black Urushi lacquer.

The new timepiece is available in the two quintessential colours of Urushi lacquer. The first is jet black lacquer, with a deep contrast that can only be expressed through this material. The second is vermilion red lacquer. Knot crafts unique straps using materials made with traditional Japanese techniques. All are 18mm in width and interchangeable.

The watch’s dial is sprinkled with resplendent gold and silver powder using the “Maki-e” technique. The overlay of gold and silver is then embellished with a final silver finish, to further enhance the brilliance of the pure gold. The gold and silver powders are arranged in an attractive gradient that runs from the centre outwards.

The mirror-finish transparent cases of both models are perfectly polished by Hayashi Seiki Co. Ltd. in Fukushima, using the Sallaz method, a technique usually reserved for luxury watches. And that is indeed the very essence of what Knot has to offer: high-end craftsmanship at an accessible price.

Price range: ¥86,250-¥155,250 JPY

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