'忠臣蔵' Chūshingura
Introducing the HIROSHIGE '忠臣蔵' Chūshingura — our latest horological leather based on an actual 180-year-old woodblock print (ukiyo-e, circa 1835-39) by celebrated ukiyo-e grandmaster Utagawa Hiroshige which we own in our permanent art collection. Sister copies of this same exact artwork also hang in the Met and British Museums.
Titled ‘Chūshingura Act XI, Scene I: The Night Attack Advances’ (‘jūichidan-me ichi, yochi oshiyose’ 忠臣蔵 十一段目一 夜打押寄), the artwork is part of a series based on the highly acclaimed kabuki epic Chūshingura (忠臣蔵) - a fictionalized account of the Akō Incident of 1701. The historical event revolves around 47 rōnins - masterless samurai - and their mission to exact honor for their lord.
The new HIROSHIGE '忠臣蔵' Chūshingura horological leather transforms Edo-period Japanese artistry into a modern wearable masterpiece. This time, we have chosen higher-grade leather with a slight gloss finish on the surface, and upped the extent and resolution of engraving. This juxtaposition of semi-gloss fine leather with matte engraved elements provide a beautiful contrast to what is perhaps our most beautiful watch strap to date. The strap is patinaed by hand and continue to feature the unique elements HIROSHIGE straps are renowned for.
Deliveries will start from mid-February 2025.
Titled Chūshingura Act XI, Scene I: The Night Attack Advances (Jūichidan-me Ichi, Yochi Oshiyose 忠臣蔵 十一段目一 夜打押寄), this 180-year-old woodblock print (ukiyo-e, circa 1835–1839) by Ukiyo-e artist Utagawa Hiroshige is based on a series inspired by the legendary kabuki Chūshingura (忠臣蔵).
High-grade leather with semi-gloss finish
Made from a higher-grade leather, the HIROSHIGE '忠臣蔵' Chūshingura strap enhances both comfort and durability during wear.
Using the Anticatura Patina technique, the leather achieves a rich, deep hue with a slight gloss finish. Over time, it develops a distinctive aged effect, further enhancing its unique character.
Laser-engraving details and hand-cut Katana's blade end
The HIROSHIGE '忠臣蔵' Chūshingura strap features a hand-cut end inspired by a katana blade, an iconic HIROSHIGE design that enhances durability and facilitates easy entry into the strap guides for a perfect fit.
Paying tribute to the iconic kabuki Chūshingura (忠臣蔵), the HIROSHIGE '忠臣蔵' Chūshingura strap features an intricate laser engraving of this iconic scene.
Buckle and quick release mechanism
With a 16mm buckle and quick-release spring bar, the HIROSHIGE '忠臣蔵' Chūshingura strap is compatible with most fine mechanical watches
