Minase’s Masterpiece Akita Silver Filigree Unique Piece is a one-off, client-commissioned watch, not a standard catalogue model. Its dial was handcrafted by Akita artisan Kasumi Takahashi using ginsen zaiku, a local silver-filigr ee technique, and depicts a five-petal orchid inspired by the Hong Kong flag. Minase placed it in the brand’s Five Windows case.
What makes this Minase a unique piece?
The watch was commissioned for a client and presented as an example of Minase’s bespoke Masterpiece work. The design was developed for that commission, so the source does not establish it as a model customers can order unchanged or as a continuing catalogue reference. The account was published by Fratello on April 7, 2023.
The dial’s orchid motif has five petals and was inspired by the Hong Kong flag. Akita-based artisan Kasumi Takahashi made it by hand. Fratello’s account does not establish the watch’s price, whether this particular piece is available, or whether Minase currently accepts commissions for comparable work.
How Akita silver filigree shapes the dial
Fratello describes the local technique as ginsen zaiku: twisted silver wires are arranged to form patterns. The wire used in Akita silver filigree is reported as 0.2 mm in diameter. That fine material allows the maker to build a delicate motif from individually shaped and assembled elements.
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- Stainless steel case 40mm diameter x 14.1mm thick; Exhibition case back; Black dial; Luminous hands.Band Length: 205mm
- NH35A Japanese Automatic movement, 24 jewel; Assembled in Malaysia; Watch weight 155 grams
- Includes gift box, instructions and 3 year limited manufacturer warranty; Invicta Customer Service can be reached at 1-800-327-7682 for questions (re: Additional links, band replacement, band adjustment, warranty questions, etc.)
From sketch to finished motif
- Takahashi sketched possible designs for the client to choose from.
- She curled and cut small pieces of silver, then twisted and threaded wire into shapes.
- She assembled the elements within a frame to form the design.
- She fired the completed structure to settle the arrangement.
According to Fratello, Takahashi learned the craft from her grandmother and usually makes jewelry. This was her first reported watch-dial project, adapting a traditional local craft to a watch’s small, framed surface.
The Five Windows case and its dimensions
The dial sits inside Minase’s Five Windows case, which uses five sapphire crystals to reveal the dial from different angles. Fratello reported the case dimensions in 2023 as 40.3 mm long, 32 mm wide, and 11.6 mm high.
Rank #2
- Stainless steel case 40mm diameter x 14mm thick; Exhibition case back; Black dial; Luminous hands and hour markers
- NH35A Japanese Automatic movement, 24 jewel; Assembled in Malaysia; Watch weight: 155 grams
- Stainless steel band, 210mm L x 20mm W; Band is adjustable by adding/removing links; Fold over safety clasp
- Mineral crystal; Screw-down crown; Diver stainless steel bezel with black top bezel ring; 200 meter water resistant: Suitable for professional marine activity and surface water sports. Suitable for diving.
The same account says Minase uses Sallaz polishing, also known as Zaratsu, for case finishing. It attributes to Minase a workload of about 50 processes and at least 30 hours to complete a case. These are reported production figures, not independently verified measurements of the individual watch’s finishing time.
Movement and what is not specified
Fratello says Minase sources high-quality Swiss movements and decorates them to its specifications, but it does not identify the calibre fitted to this particular unique watch. The movement should therefore be treated as unspecified; a calibre cannot be inferred from the brand’s general sourcing description.
Rank #3
- Triangle Dial Design: Inspired by the clean lines of a shield, this geometric dial offers a modern alternative to traditional round watches. The bold triangular shape stands out effortlessly—whether for daily wear or special occasions like weddings and parties
- Japanese Automatic Movement: Powered by the renowned Japanese Miyota 8215 automatic self-winding movement. It harnesses the natural motion of your wrist to wind the mainspring—no battery needed. Enjoy accurate timekeeping with an average daily deviation of ±2 seconds and proven long-term reliability
- Premium Durability & Craftsmanship: Features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, a 304L stainless steel case and bracelet, and 3ATM water resistance. Built to endure daily wear while maintaining a sleek, modern look
- Enhanced Legibility & Function: Luminous hands and markers ensure clear reading in low light. The enlarged date window adds practicality. Its versatile design transitions seamlessly from professional settings to casual outings, reflecting the wearer's refined taste
- Perfect Gift with Assurance: Presented in an ILLIMITE branded box, this watch is an ideal gift for special occasions. Backed by a 60-day return policy and a 2-year replacement warranty. Contact us via Amazon for any questions—shop with confidence
Minase and its Akita roots
Fratello traces Minase’s background to the Akita region and to Kyowa, a tool manufacturer established there in 1963. A Kyowa division reportedly began making high-end cases and complete watches in 1988. Minase itself is reported to have launched in 2005 and takes its name from its home village in Akita Prefecture. These company-history details are based on Fratello’s account.
Can you buy or commission one?
The Akita silver filigree watch is described as a client-specific unique piece, and the available account gives no price or current sales status. It also does not confirm whether similar bespoke commissions are presently being accepted. For current information about bespoke Masterpiece work, contact Minase through its official website; ask specifically about present commission availability, specifications, timing, and terms rather than assuming this exact watch can be purchased.
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