Unveiling the Journey of NH Watches: From Frustrations to Excellence
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Mr. Navihida's Background in the Watch Industry
- Frustrations and Decision to Create Own Watches
- The Journey with Fujita and Kanosa
- Type 1 Series: Uniqueness and Evolution
- Type 2 Series: Manual Winding Center Second Watches
- Type 3 Series: Moon Phase Function Watches
- Future Product Line and Collaborations
- The Art of Engraving
- Meet the Team: Engraver and Watchmaker
- Conclusion
Introduction
๐ In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of NH Watches, a Japanese watch brand with a rich history and unique approach to watchmaking. Join us on a journey to discover the story behind the brand, learn about their signature timepieces, and get a glimpse into the creative minds and skilled craftsmanship that bring these watches to life. Get ready to be enchanted by the passion and dedication of Mr. Navihida, the founder of NH Watches, and the talented team behind these exquisite timepieces.
Mr. Navihida's Background in the Watch Industry
๐ Mr. Navihida introduces himself as a veteran of the watch industry, with over 30 years of experience in Japan. He started his career as a wholesale representative, gaining valuable insights into various aspects of the industry, including marketing, brand management, and after-sales service. His journey led him to work with renowned Swiss Trading Companies, where he had the opportunity to collaborate with prestigious Swiss watch brands such as Eterna and Maurice Lacroix.
๐ Despite his extensive experience, Mr. Navihida found himself frustrated by not being able to fully realize his own ideas and create his own watches. This frustration, coupled with his love for vintage watches, ultimately motivated him to take the challenging path of starting his own brand.
Frustrations and Decision to Create Own Watches
๐ While working in the watch industry, Mr. Navihida came across many projects, but he always felt that he couldn't truly make his ideas come to life because the watches he worked on were not his own. This realization led him to a crossroads โ give up on his aspirations or embark on the journey of creating his own watches.
๐ Mr. Navihida's passion for watches and his desire to find his ideal timepieces fueled his decision to take the hard route: creating his own brand. Through a serendipitous meeting with Fujita and Kanosa, who shared his vision of creating their own products, the foundation for NH Watches was laid.
The Journey with Fujita and Kanosa
๐ Mr. Navihida had the fortune of meeting Fujita and Kanosa during his previous roles as a brand manager and watchmaker, respectively. After discussing their shared passion for watchmaking, the trio decided to join forces and embark on their own watchmaking project.
๐ With a diverse range of experience in sales, marketing, watchmaking, and craftsmanship, the team was well-equipped to tackle the challenges ahead. Together, they aimed to create watches that aligned with their individual tastes while ensuring that every detail reflected their collective vision.
๐ While their collaborations resulted in the successful launch of several product lines, each with its own distinctive features, NH Watches remains Mr. Navihida's signature line. These watches are a culmination of his taste, experience, and dedication.
Type 1 Series: Uniqueness and Evolution
๐ The Type 1 series serves as NH Watches' flagship product line. This series encompasses their first-generation watches, which underwent evolution and improvement over the years. The Type 1A, introduced in 2018, showcased NH Watches' commitment to continuous improvement, as the watch was not released for sale due to Mr. Navihida's belief in the need for further enhancements.
๐ The Type 1B, launched in 2019, garnered significant attention with its unique combination of a small second located at nine o'clock and a 37mm case. NH Watches drew inspiration from another watch brand, harboring, which had a similar idea but was yet to gain popularity at the time. The Type 1B received positive reviews from customers and played a pivotal role in establishing NH Watches' credibility in the market.
๐ Continuing their journey, NH Watches launched the Type 1C in 2020, followed by the Type 1D in the previous year. The Type 1D, with its screw-down case back and two-tone case design, became a standout piece within the Type 1 series. This versatile timepiece was met with enthusiasm and proved to be a favorite among watch enthusiasts.
๐ NH Watches takes pride in the Type 1 series, as it represents their vision and showcases their expertise in watchmaking. With attention to detail and a commitment to excellence, these watches offer a timeless appeal that transcends trends.
Type 2 Series: Manual Winding Center Second Watches
๐ The Type 2 series pays homage to the classic design of manual winding center second watches. Drawing inspiration from watches popular in the 1950s and 1960s, NH Watches sought to capture the essence of these timepieces while infusing their own unique touch.
๐ Many esteemed watch brands of the past featured manual winding center second watches, and NH Watches aimed to revive this timeless style. The Type 2 series incorporates a 37mm case, similar to the Type 1 series, but with the addition of an elegant center second hand.
๐ NH Watches takes great pride in the design of the hands for their Type 2 watches. The bar-shaped hands, or "sticks," as they are commonly known, have a three-dimensional shape that sets them apart. Crafted from stainless steel, these hands are meticulously designed to strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and function.
๐ The first-generation Type 2A, launched in 2021, marked NH Watches' foray into this distinct style. Building upon the success of the initial model, NH Watches introduced the Type 2B in 2022, incorporating subtle yet impactful design changes. Both the first and second generations of the Type 2 series feature a screw-down case back, adding a touch of sophistication to these timepieces.
Type 3 Series: Moon Phase Function Watches
๐ The Type 3 series showcases NH Watches' dedication to capturing the beauty and elegance of moon phase function watches. Inspired by pocket watches from the 18th and 19th centuries, these timepieces pay homage to a bygone era of exquisite craftsmanship.
๐ NH Watches' attention to detail is evident in the Type 3 series, with low-man numerals and a delicately engraved and enameled dial. The standout feature of these watches is the large moon phase display, which adds a touch of celestial splendor to the dial. Crafted from an 18-carat gold disc, the moon and stars are brought to life, creating a visually stunning timepiece.
๐ The introduction of the Type 3 series in 2019 marked NH Watches' venture into moon phase function watches. These watches captured the essence of classic pocket watches, infused with NH Watches' unique design language. The meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtfully designed details make the Type 3 series a standout in the watch industry.
Future Product Line and Collaborations
๐ NH Watches is committed to continuing their journey of creating exceptional timepieces. They plan to expand their existing product lines, including the Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 series, while staying true to their signature style and uncompromising quality.
๐ Moreover, NH Watches has exciting collaborations in the pipeline. Their recent collaboration with The Armory, featuring five references, garnered attention from watch enthusiasts worldwide. NH Watches acknowledges the significance of collaborations in expanding their reach and diversifying their offerings.
๐ As NH Watches continues to create watches with a global appeal, Mr. Navihida extends his heartfelt gratitude to the subscribers from overseas. He invites them to explore NH Watches' website for further information and to stay updated on future releases. NH Watches' commitment to excellence and dedication to their craft ensure that every watch is an embodiment of timeless beauty.
The Art of Engraving
๐ Within NH Watches, the team consists of highly skilled artisans, each contributing their unique expertise to the creation of these remarkable timepieces. One such artisan is Kanosan, NH Watches' engraver extraordinaire.
๐ Kanosan's mesmerizing skill in hand-engraving brings extraordinary depth and detail to the indexes of NH Watches. With a precision that can only be achieved through years of practice and a keen eye for aesthetics, Kanosan masterfully engraves each index by hand. This meticulous process imparts a three-dimensional quality to NH Watches' dials, creating a visually captivating experience for the watch wearer.
๐ Kanosan's journey as an engraver began during his tenure at Tiffany Japan, where he spent over 16 years engraving indexes, characters, and numbers. Through his unwavering commitment to perfection, Kanosan has honed his skills to a level where every stroke evokes a sense of artistry and craftsmanship. His ability to engrave with such precision and intricacy is a testament to his dedication and expertise.
Meet the Team: Engraver and Watchmaker
๐ NH Watches boasts a team of highly talented individuals who bring their expertise to every aspect of the watchmaking process. Among them is Shady, the brand's watchmaker and designer. With meticulous attention to detail, Shady meticulously prepares every component necessary for the manufacturing of NH Watches.
๐ Shady's role is instrumental in transforming the ideas conceived by Mr. Navihida into tangible watches. He starts by hand-drawing the watch designs, which serve as the foundation for creating 3D models using computer-aided design (CAD) technology. The team then produces small-scale models using 3D printing, allowing them to examine the intricate details before finalizing the designs.
๐ Once the designs are finalized, Shady collaborates with NH Watches' trusted suppliers to produce the components necessary for the watch assembly. This intricate dance between design and craftsmanship ensures that every NH watch meets the brand's exacting standards of excellence.
๐ The combined talents of Kanosan, Shady, and the rest of the NH Watches team are what make these timepieces truly exceptional. Their passion, dedication, and expertise shine through in every meticulously crafted watch, creating pieces that transcend time and become cherished heirlooms.
Conclusion
๐ NH Watches is a testament to the artistry, dedication, and passion that goes into creating exceptional timepieces. Mr. Navihida's journey in the watch industry, coupled with his frustrations and desire to create his own watches, led to the birth of NH Watches. With the invaluable support of his team, Fujita and Kanosa, they have successfully brought their vision to life.
๐ Each watch series, whether it be the Type 1, Type 2, or Type 3, showcases NH Watches' commitment to excellence and their unwavering attention to detail. From the unique design elements to the meticulous craftsmanship, NH Watches creates watches that bridge the gap between tradition and innovation.
๐ As NH Watches continues to evolve and create new timepieces, their dedication to creating exceptional watches remains unchanged. With their upcoming collaborations and future product line developments, NH Watches is set to leave an indelible mark on the watch industry.
๐ So, if you seek a timepiece that blends timeless elegance with contemporary craftsmanship, look no further than NH Watches. With their rich heritage, exquisite designs, and a passion for perfection, NH Watches is the epitome of watchmaking artistry.
FAQ
1. Where can I purchase NH Watches?
NH Watches accepts orders through their website. They have an annual order process, and details can be found on their website.
2. Are NH Watches limited editions?
Yes, NH Watches offers limited editions of their watches. Each series has a specific number of pieces manufactured, making them highly exclusive.
3. Do NH Watches offer customization options?
NH Watches primarily focuses on their signature designs, but they may consider customization requests. It is best to contact NH Watches directly for more information.
4. What is the lead time for ordering an NH watch?
The lead time for ordering an NH watch can vary depending on the model and availability. It is recommended to check their website or contact NH Watches for the most up-to-date information.
5. Do NH Watches offer international shipping?
Yes, NH Watches ships internationally. They welcome watch enthusiasts from around the world to experience their exquisite timepieces.
6. Can I visit the NH Watches showroom?
NH Watches operates primarily through online channels. However, they may occasionally organize events or exhibitions where you can view their watches in person. Keep an eye on their website for any updates regarding showroom visits.
7. Does NH Watches provide after-sales service?
Yes, NH Watches provides after-sales service for their watches. They have a dedicated team to assist with repairs or maintenance, ensuring that your NH watch continues to bring you joy for years to come.
8. Can I become a retailer of NH Watches?
NH Watches carefully selects their retail partners. If you are interested in becoming a retailer, it is recommended to reach out to NH Watches and discuss potential collaborations.
9. Does NH Watches offer a warranty on their watches?
Yes, NH Watches provides a warranty on their watches. The warranty period and terms may vary, so it is advisable to refer to the warranty information provided with each individual watch.
10. Can I find NH Watches at authorized dealers?
NH Watches primarily sells their watches directly through their website. However, they may collaborate with authorized dealers on select occasions. Details regarding authorized dealers can be found on the NH Watches website when applicable.
