The word “ethical” also means “moral,” and is deeper and more philosophical than sustainability. At the time, the concept of “ethical” was not yet widely known, and we wanted to create a watch that could serve as an opportunity to spread this idea—something that would allow people to feel at ease with nature and attract them. From there, through an introduction by brand advisor Yoshiko Ikoma, we asked architect Sou Fujimoto, who creates works that uniquely combine surprise and comfort, to be our design advisor.
First, we engaged in repeated discussions to solidify the concept, considering together the relationship between “light,” the power source of Eco-Drive, and “time.” This led to the keyword “a watch like light itself—a living organism with organic light,” and Mr. Fujimoto proposed rough sketches based on this image.
We proposed a new concept of time that evokes both “light,” the source of life, and “time,” which inherently has no form. The softly clouded glass, as if enveloping light, is symbolic. By linking the expression of “light,” which possesses universal beauty, with an “ethical” production background, we were excited to propose a new sense of value for wristwatches and a watch imbued with a sense of nature, and proceeded to create sketches for realization.
In refining the design, we aimed for a sense of minimal beauty and spiritual elegance. The sapphire glass, inspired by a hazy moon softly glowing through a thin mist, richly expresses the shifting qualities of light. The case has a warm matte finish, and the band is made from elegant, lustrous Nishijin textile, giving the entire watch a design that feels gently wrapped in light.
The production of the clouded glass, which is key to the expression, was extremely challenging. Since it is an Eco-Drive, ensuring light transmittance was essential, but balancing a design where the hands are faintly visible with the required transmittance was difficult, so we made repeated adjustments. Although sapphire glass is a hard glass that does not scratch, its highly smooth surface made it difficult for printing to adhere, so we devised ways to improve ink types and surface treatments.
The case uses pure titanium, which is lightweight and highly resistant to metal allergies. We chose this material with consideration for women’s delicate skin and comfort, so it can be worn with peace of mind. The matte titanium case has a whiteness and rounded shape that harmonizes with the clouded glass, and its form was finalized after detailed checks using a 3D printer for stereolithography. The thin, smooth shape links to the comfort that can be felt from the material itself.
For the strap, we created an original fabric in collaboration with Hosoo, a long-established Nishijin weaving company in Kyoto, inspired by the shimmering of light. The silver thread and silk emit a delicate brilliance that blends gently with the light. To improve workability and maintain strength, we repeatedly made fine adjustments to the weave pattern and compatibility with the lining material. By fusing design and craftsmanship, the result is minimal yet exudes elegance within tranquil beauty.
We also designed a clutch bag and bangle as a set. The clutch bag was designed by Shinya Kushino, whose works are attracting attention in the global art world. The idea of attaching and detaching the watch to the bag offers new possibilities and enjoyment for watches.
This project was not just about realizing what Mr. Fujimoto proposed, but also proceeded by considering suggestions from CITIZEN’s designers, resulting in a two-way design process. “This concept is very faint, but very clear,” Mr. Fujimoto said at the outset. There were many new elements and challenges, but we wanted to carefully realize the feelings entrusted to the initial concept sketches. The experimental process toward new forms of expression was also very enjoyable. Although a considerable amount of time has passed since its release, the unique expression of this watch still leaves a soft and fresh impression every time I see it.