Independent Japanese watchmaker Jiro Katayama has introduced his newest timepiece, the Ōtsuka Lōtec No. 9, after the success of his award-nominated No. 5 KAI. The watch blends bold industrial design with fine mechanical artistry, all inside a 44mm x 30mm stainless-steel rectangular case.
On the right half of the dial, stacked hour and minute discs display the time, highlighted by a glowing block for better visibility in the dark. The watch comes with a curved steel caseback and a 26mm calfskin strap, designed for everyday comfort despite its complex build.
Every hour, a striking mechanical performance unfolds:
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The jumping-hour disc advances instantly.
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The retrograde minute disc snaps back to zero.
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A hammer strikes a gong, producing a sharp chime.
Adding to its charm, an offset tourbillon spins at the lower dial, while a power reserve indicator keeps track of its 40-hour energy supply.
Inside, the watch runs on the in-house Cal. SSGT manual-winding movement, made of 278 parts, including 30 jewels and 5 ball bearings. Special custom ruby and steel bearings – some of the smallest in the world – ensure smooth and precise function.
Katayama explains that his inspiration came from industrial machinery, aiming to showcase textures, sounds, and vibrations through a transparent sapphire case.
The watch is water-resistant to 3 ATM and is priced at ¥17,600,000 JPY (around $118,890 USD). Each piece is Made in Japan, comes with a one-year warranty, and is available through Ōtsuka Lōtec’s official website.
Detail Info
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Name: Ōtsuka Lōtec Industrial No. 9
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Case Size: 44mm x 30mm (rectangular, stainless steel)
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Dial Features: Jumping hours, retrograde minutes, luminous backlit discs, offset tourbillon, 40-hour power reserve indicator
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Movement: In-house Cal. SSGT, manual winding, 278 components, 18,000 vph, 30 jewels + 5 ball bearings
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Special Bearings: 2.5 mm ruby bearings, 1.5 mm steel bearings (supplied by MinebeaMitsumi)
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Water Resistance: 3 ATM
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Strap: 26mm calfskin leather
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Price: ¥17,600,000 JPY (approx. $118,890 USD, tax included)
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Warranty: 1 year
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Availability: Ōtsuka Lōtec official website
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Made in: Japan
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