We go inside manufacture and look behind Minase’s philosophy that embodies the Japanese principle of Monozukuri. The literal translation, being to make things, but the true meaning is much deeper than this. A more accurate definition would be manufacturing or making things by hand.
For its cases, Minase uses the Sallaz polishing technique. Also known as black polishing, the Sallaz polishing technique is employed to finish steel parts of a watch to create a mirror-like surface. True sallaz polishing is done by hand and only found in high-end timepieces.
Minase belongs to the handful of watch brands employing the Sallaz polishing technique, also known as Zaratsu. This technique of finishing is used to give steel parts a surface so perfectly smooth that they can give the appearance of being black from certain angles. Sallaz was a Swiss-German polishing machine maker that supplied equipment to Japanese case maker Hayashi Seiki Seizo, which pioneered the technique in Japan and still makes top quality cases for the likes of Grand Seiko.
It takes 45 operations and an impressive level of skill and dexterity to finish the polishing of a single Minase 5 Windows case. A skilled, experienced craftsman usually polishes 6 to 8 Minase cases in a day.
‘Minase Original Rebuilding Equation’ patented structure was developed in order to be able to make watches that can be treasured for more than 100 years. Inspired by Japanese wooden puzzles, this design allows Minase watchmakers to assemble and disassemble exterior parts of the watch, such as the case and bracelet, as many times as they need to refit or repair the watch.
‘Case-in-case’ is one of the greatest characteristics of the Minase watches, and a construction unique to the brand. Indeed, there is no traditional dial; the movement is covered by a container – the dial-plate – on top of which the index ring is fitted. This creates a floating structure built inside each case. This configuration achieves a super three-dimensional structure, creating an unparalleled space. All surfaces of parts are sallaz-polished, creating a uniquely serene look.
Minase’s cases could rather be defined as technical systems. No less than 15 pieces compose the case. The pieces combine perfectly in order to create a whole, only held together by four screws hidden under while the watch is worn. Minase’s case construction was inspired by the three-dimentional jigsaw puzzle.
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