Kurono Tokyo has developed a near cult-like following with watch enthusiasts over the past few years. The watches are distinctly Japanese in their design and recent releases have both quickly sold out and shown up above MSRP in the secondary market. The idea, however, is to provide something that is accessible and of high-quality. This latest set of 34mm watches uses Hajime Asaoka’s hand-drawn Breguet numerals as the starting point, which are then adapted as templates for production. It’s been announced as the Kurono 34mm ‘Calligra’ Special Project.
You’ve got three dial options to choose from: Stark Black, Silver White, and a Dark MOP with a mother-of-pearl central medallion that gives off some ocean vibes in the middle of the dial. Now, it might sound like a minor tweak, but those Asaoka hand-drawn Breguet numerals are the secret sauce here. They take things up a notch from the previous iteration and show deep attention to the little things, showcasing Asaoka’s keen eye for the details. I’ve never really been into mother-of-pearl anything so I’d probably gravitate toward the simple black dial version.
All of these versions come in at 34mm in diameter, 41mm lug-to-lug, and 9.6mm thick. The calf leather straps seem to pair well and it’s a cool look overall if you’re seeking a different type of dressy watch. I think the big point of debate here will be the price and how it stands next to the movement choice—a Miyota 90S5 Automatic. Personally, I think if people are into the style and interested in adding a watch like this to the collection, they’ll pay the price anyway. If I would change anything on these, it would be the handset. Leaf hands would kill it on a watch like this and I just find the blue syringe hands look a little too sporty for the design.
Kurono Tokyo 34mm ‘Calligra’ Special Project Specifications
| Case Size | 34mm (Diameter) x 9.6mm (Thick) x 41mm (Lug-to-Lug) |
| Water Resistance | 50m |
| Movement | Miyota 90S5 Automatic |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Crystal | Domed Sapphire |
| Strap | Calf Leather, Steel Buckle |
| Price | $1,170 USD |
Here’s the kicker—it’s a limited edition, a one-time deal, no reruns. Orders open up on February 23rd. They’re set to land on doorsteps around mid-March 2024. You can learn more about the release on the brand’s official website.
Co-Founder & Senior Editor
Michael Peñate is an American writer, photographer, and podcaster based in Seattle, Washington. His work typically focuses on the passage of time and the tools we use to connect with that very journey. From aviation to music and travel, his interests span a multitude of disciplines that often intersect with the world of watches – and the obsessive culture behind collecting them.