Kiwame Tokyo MUNE USUKI - KT201

MUNE USUKI(浅黄) is a watch that brings together the functional beauty of a field watch with the architectural aesthetics of traditional Japanese design. The model name “MUNE” refers to the ridge of a roof in Japanese architecture—the highest line that runs along the top and unifies the entire structure. In watchmaking, the 12 o’clock position likewise represents the origin of time and the visual apex of the dial.

By drawing a parallel between these two meanings, the index at 12 o’clock has been shaped to evoke the ridge of a traditional roof. It serves as an orientation marker indicating the top of the dial while subtly introducing an architectural motif inspired by Japanese structures. The applied Arabic numeral indices are three-dimensionally formed and finished in black. Their strong contrast against the pale USUKI dial ensures excellent legibility, while the subdued tone of the indices brings a refined sense of balance to the dial. The dial color itself is based on Usuki, a traditional Japanese hue. Slightly warmer than a typical ivory tone, the color was achieved through repeated prototyping and subtle adjustments. The result is a soft and elegant shade that brings a quiet warmth to the classic field watch aesthetic.

A finely printed minute track runs along the outer edge of the dial. Luminous paint is applied at the 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock positions, allowing these cardinal points to glow softly in low-light conditions and further enhancing legibility. The hour and minute hands are sculpted baton-style hands with a subtle raised ridge running through their center. This ridge line echoes the architectural ridge of a traditional roof—the very inspiration behind the model’s name—adding a quiet structural presence to the dial.

The seconds hand is finished in heat-blued steel, creating a calm visual accent against the warm tone of the USUKI dial. Its luminous counterweight is shaped to resemble the great roof of Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa, subtly incorporating a symbolic element of the district’s architecture.

The case measures 38mm in diameter and 9.5mm in thickness, with a 46mm lug-to-lug length that allows the watch to sit naturally on the wrist. While maintaining the refined proportions of a classic dress watch, the case also offers 100 meters of water resistance, making it suitable for both everyday wear and outdoor environments. The top of the bezel and the sides of the case feature a fine brushed finish, while the bezel edge and the front surfaces of the case are mirror polished.

This contrast of finishes creates a subtle interplay of light and depth across the case. Inside beats the Japanese-made Miyota 9039 automatic movement, known for its reliability and stable performance—perfectly suited for a practical everyday watch.

Specifications

・Regulated Japan-made Miyota Cal. 9039 automatic movement

・Sapphire crystal with inner anti-reflective coating

・316L stainless steel case

・Push/pull crown

・Italian genuine calf leather strap with quick-release spring bars

・Water resistance: 10 ATM / 100 meters

Dimensions

・Ø38mm diameter

・9.5mm case thickness

・46mm lug-to-lug

・Strap width 20-16mm (lug-buckle)

・Fits wrists from 16 cm to 21 cm