Gisuke Tokuyama

DESIGNER

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/gisuke-tokuyama
Name
Gisuke Tokuyama
Specialty
Product design
Region
Japan
Career
Tokuyama graduated from Musashino Art University after a short-term study abroad program at the Berlin University of the Arts in Germany. After joining the company, he mainly worked on domestic-market products for the CITIZEN brand and also handled the PROMASTER brand. He was also involved in the 2021 rebranding of Series 8.
Hobbies
Cars, clothing, and music

RELATED ARTICLES

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Evolved Watch

The RECORD LABEL 1984 chronograph is a modern refinement of CITIZEN's first multifunctional analog quartz watch with three motors, the 'SPORTE' series, which was released in 1984. While retaining the unique atmosphere of 1980s watches, it has been updated for practicality and environmental consideration by adopting a light-powered movement.

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/1

Simplicity through subtraction.

Series 8 originally debuted in 2008 as a collection. Its distinctive feature was an innovative 8-part case structure for the time, based on an urban and modern concept. The collection was temporarily discontinued in 2014, but in 2021, eight years later, the new Series 8 was relaunched. Simple and modern. Simplicity through subtraction. While inheriting the design concept known as the 'aesthetic of subtraction,' the brand has restarted as a mechanical watch that combines the specifications and presence demanded today.

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/059_07-04_プロマスター タフ_01

Being Protected

By employing various innovations to protect the movement from external shocks, the result is a watch where distinctive design elements come together, embodying an aesthetic of 'protection.' The thick, rugged case, the separately constructed bezel with packing sandwiched in, screws, and end pieces all evoke images of fortresses, shields, and armor—symbols of defense. The watch gives a tough impression, suggesting it can withstand even the harshest environments. What is interesting here is that the word 'ruggedness' can be reinterpreted from the user's perspective as a 'sense of security in being protected.' Because it is so well protected, users feel reassured that it can handle rough treatment, allowing them to use it freely and closely rather than keeping it at a distance. The design greatly contributes to this psychological benefit. This model makes you realize the gap between its rugged, heavy appearance and the soft advantages it offers users, such as reliability and peace of mind.

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Inspire

The striking impact of the asymmetrical silhouette stirs an irresistible urge to pick it up. The prominently placed depth gauge on the dial and the sensor at the 9 o’clock position spark the imagination—what if you actually dove into the sea?—and ultimately ignite a genuine desire to own it. This model not only stimulates such subconscious feelings in users, but also possesses the functionality to fully satisfy those emotions. As with any product, not just watches, if you pursue functionality alone, you risk ending up with something bland and lacking in character. This model, however, brilliantly balances functionality with an iconic appearance, even within the constraints of ISO/JIS standards and underwater visibility requirements. As its nickname "Mola Mola Diver" suggests, the model features a silhouette so distinctive that it can be recognized at a glance, yet it never compromises on the functions required of a diver's watch. It truly embodies the designer’s essential role: achieving both practicality and a uniquely attractive appearance.

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/089_11-12_ミュー_01

The Comfort Watch

By prioritizing 'consideration for people,' which means ease of use for everyone, this watch is filled with 'gentleness' in both its functionality and design. It is suitable for anyone, regardless of age or gender, and is easy to accept for all. As it is based on the concept of universal design, it thoroughly emphasizes two points: 'legibility' and 'comfort.' The rounded case without any edges and the universal font with plump, rounded tips are prime examples, and as a result of focusing on kindness to people, the watch also gives a gentle impression in its appearance, which is quite interesting. Because the concept is clear, the forms derived from it are also straightforward. This philosophy is reflected everywhere, from the easy-to-pull crown at the 4 o'clock position to the rubber clasp cover that protects your nails. The texture when touched is also considered: the smooth feel of the sand-blasted titanium and the soft touch of the clasp cover. As a product worn and operated on the wrist, the 'gentleness' that appeals to the senses is pleasantly felt.