Hajime Asaoka Time-Only Watches

Euroasianstar · 2019-02-23T06:13:51Z

Explore Hajime Asaoka's Art Deco time-only watches. Insights on craftsmanship, movement, and the unique challenges of acquiring pieces from the Japanese AHCI member.

Euroasianstar initiates a crucial discussion on Hajime Asaoka, a distinguished AHCI member from Japan, seeking community insights on his time-only models. This thread is particularly valuable for collectors considering independent watchmakers, highlighting the unique blend of Art Deco aesthetics and meticulous craftsmanship that defines Asaoka's work. It also delves into the practicalities of acquiring such exclusive pieces.

Hi all,

Just wanted to see if any one you have had experience dealing with or purchasing a Japanese watch from Asaoka? He is one of the few AHCI members from Japan.

Specifically:
- what do you think of his basic time only model? I really like this Art Deco style
- anything else comparable in design and quality I should consider, ie two tone, Art Deco, and/or sector dial type?

Thanks all.

Key Points from the Discussion

Hajime Asaoka's watches, particularly the Tsunami line, are praised for their balanced size, impressive movement, and large balance wheel, beating at 18,000 vph. The meticulous adjustment in 6 positions is a hallmark of high watchmaking, comparable to brands like Laurent Ferrier.
The execution of Asaoka's pieces is fantastic, and he is seen as a watchmaker who truly brings a unique vision to the table, embodying his personal philosophy of what a watch should be.
A significant challenge in acquiring an Asaoka watch is the difficulty in communication with the watchmaker, with several members reporting unreturned emails and long delivery times, suggesting that buying into an independent often means buying into the watchmaker as much as the watch.
Despite the admiration for the watches, the lack of responsiveness from the watchmaker, even to inquiries written in Japanese, has led some potential buyers to pass on the opportunity.
Previous discussions on WatchProSite's Independents section contain extensive positive commentary on Asaoka's watches, though some negative experiences regarding the watchmaker's communication have also been noted.

The Discussion

ambel

Feb 23, 2019

already sent many mails but without any reply think that it would go much smoother if you can speake his maternal language

Euroasianstar

Feb 23, 2019

Self taught watchmaker. Runs on a big 16mm balance wheel. Priced like a PP Calatrava

Feb 23, 2019

Beautiful movement and workmanship. It's on my wishlist. M4

templetowers

Feb 23, 2019

years for delivery. I would also suggested that you review some of the comments on the forum from KIH which have been very positive around the watches but so much not around the Watchmaker - With 'independents' you need to be buying into the watchmaker as much as the watch - I decided not to go further.

Euroasianstar

Feb 23, 2019

Was trying to find the comments you refer to. Posted by KIH here or elsewhere?

templetowers

Feb 23, 2019

www.watchprosite.com Search Hajime Asaoka in the independents section and you will find plenty of information about him - wonderful watches - Best wishes , Will

Key Points from the Discussion

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