Rare Watch Box Sets: Collector's Guide

sham1 · 2023-01-17T19:51:47Z

Explore sham1's rare Kurono Tokyo Urushi dial box set, a limited edition release. Discover insights on dial purity, strap comfort, and collector challenges.

sham1

WPS member · Independents forum

46 replies10090 views1 photos

In a testament to both horological passion and personal connections, sham1 shares his extraordinary journey to acquire the limited-edition Kurono Tokyo Urushi dial box set. This exclusive release, commemorating the brand's first boutique opening, presented a unique challenge for collectors outside Japan. sham1's account highlights the allure of these exquisite timepieces and the lengths collectors will go to secure a coveted piece of watchmaking artistry.

A month ago, Kurono Tokyo, Hajime Asaoka's 'budget' brand opened its first boutique in Aoyama, Tokyo. To commemorate the occasion, Kurono released a box set comprising three urushi dial watches limited to 88 box sets. Unlike Kurono's previous offerings which were only available to purchase online, these watches were only obtainable if one opened an account with Kurono and visited the boutique in person.

I had been fortunate and privileged to work in a Japanese company for 25 years while I had lived in London and had kept in touch with my ex boss who conveniently lived in Tokyo. Although he had left the company 13 years ago, we had exchanged birthday greetings with each other so I decided to ask him for a big favour when I heard of this latest release by Kurono

To cut a long story short, the box set arrived yesterday and I can say that the urushi dials look magnificent in every colour, partly due to the fact that the omission of the numerals on the dial adds to its purity and beauty. In addition, the straps on these watches are arguably the most supple in the market today making them a joy to wear.

I count myself privileged and very fortunate to own this box set which to me exemplifies Kurono Tokyo at its best!

Key Points from the Discussion

The comfort and quality of Kurono Tokyo straps are highly praised, even when compared to straps on watches significantly more expensive, like a R.W. Smith Series 1.
The omission of numerals on the urushi dials enhances their purity and beauty, making them a standout feature of the Kurono Tokyo box set.
The in-person purchase requirement for the Kurono Tokyo box set created frustration for many international collectors, though some sets may eventually appear on the secondary market.
The aesthetic of the Kurono Tokyo urushi dials, particularly with the absence of branding, draws comparisons to high-end independent brands like H. Moser & Cie.
Collectors often personalize their watches with different straps to change their character, as seen with a Kurono Seiji on a JPM grey suede strap for winter.
The pleasure derived from certain watches, like the Kurono Tokyo urushi models, primarily stems from their unique dials rather than being daily wearers, contrasting with chronographs often chosen for their functionality.

The Discussion

AuHavrePro

Jan 17, 2023

I am certain that they look even more impressive in person. From the images, my favorite is the green dial . Cheers, thanks for the story! Filip

sham1

Jan 17, 2023

The green dial was also my favourite when I first saw photos of the launch. But you are absolutely correct that the watches look better in real life and the dials look quite different under varying light conditions.

GuyT

Jan 17, 2023

I saw these when the e-mail came in and liked but don't have suitable connections. Very nice.

Larrykelley11

Jan 17, 2023

I like the various colors, they work with many outfits. Congratulations

sham1

Jan 17, 2023

I think many previous Kurono owners were left frustrated when they found out that the only way they could obtain one of these box sets, assuming they had no contacts in Japan, would have been to fly to Japan which is logistically not possible for many. I assume some may make their way to the used market soon so all may not be lost for those who missed out.

sham1

Jan 17, 2023

I am glad that the colours chosen were quite discreet and not too loud!

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