Presented in a limited edition of only 25 pieces, the Minase Horizon GEN Black DLC watch combines stealthy aesthetics with the highly original signature design nuances of this Japan-based independent watch Manufacture. Housed within a casing of black DLC stainless steel, and powered by a beautifully finished and customised mechanical Swiss ETA automatic movement, this is a stunning example that promises visual impact on the wrist, and exclusivity to the wearer.

Based in the rural north eastern Akita Prefecture, Minase was established in 2005 as the offspring company of specialist tool and watch case manufacturer, Kyowa Co Ltd, which for years had been supplying its products to a number of large watch brands. Using its own highly skilled artisanal craftspeople, Minase has infused all of its know-how into its portfolio of modern classic timepieces, which are distinctive, distinguished and fabulously stylish.

Demonstrating the company’s holistic approach to design, the Minase Horizon GEN Black DLC adheres to the company’s novel Minase HiZ ‘case-in-case’ concept, wherein a central capsule contains the movement and dial as a single entity. This unique arrangement adds an illusory aspect to the face of the watch, with the domed dial rising upwards from the centre, clasped from the periphery by the three-dimensional claw-like indices. The hands display prominent curves so that they conform perfectly with the dial profile and finishing the arrangement, an arc-shaped date window is set deep within its own aperture at the 3 o’clock position.

The watch resides in a complex casing measuring 38mm across, 51mm in length and 12mm tall. It is rectangular in essence but features lines that flow gracefully so that when viewed side-on its curved sapphire crystal evokes the profile of the horizon giving this collection its aptly termed title. The metal is meticulously finished with a black DLC coating, with further attention given to contrasting matte and high gloss finishing thus enhancing the unique architecture of the housing. Hollowed sides emphasise the structure, and the lugs embrace the rubber strap seamlessly so that both elements integrate smoothly with the housing.

Inside the HiZ container, the top-grade Swiss ETA 2892/A2 calibre runs at a brisk 28’800 vib/h with a power reserve of a minimum 50 hours. The mechanism has been taken apart in the Minase workshops where it has been refinished by hand, with perlage decoration to the plates, diamond polished bevelling and black ‘or’ bridges, and to which a lubrication-free bearing system has been added, along with the rotor which features the drill-head Minase motif.

The Minase Minase Horizon GEN Black DLC watch wears on a black rubber strap with a black DLC coated deployant clasp. This striking new edition will be a strictly limited release of only 25 pieces.