KINTOSHI KYOTO. The japanese emerging micro-brand everyone is excited about

This brand, maybe micro-brand still, was recently mentioned in one of the most well-known "Talking Watches" videos by Hodinkee where Ed Sheeran and John Mayer discussed their common interest in acquiring pieces from Kintoshi Kyoto.

Soon after, we took a look at the "About us" section of the offical website. Their values really resonated with ours and we have done some digging to bring you information on their values, origin, and creations. This is not a sponsored/biased article at all. We genuinely believe there is a bright future ahead for these guys after doing some digging on them!

In their own words "A watch is not merely a timekeeping tool nor a fashion accessory but it also contains the history, craftsmanship and culture of a place"

Did you know this brand at all?

About Kintoshi Kyoto

Founded in Japan in 2022,their vision is to create unique and timeless mechanical watches and other products that incorporate elements of Japan's culture, traditional craftsmanship and natural landscapes. The brand has been inspired not only by Japan, but also by traditional craftsmanship and cultural aesthetics from around the world, extending the design horizon of the watches.

Same as any other brands appreciated by true enthusiasts, they believe that in addition to the aesthetics of a watch, the quality of the movement is equally important. All of their watches are equipped with high-end automatic movements from both Japan and Switzerland while maintaining affordable prices, so that enthusiasts and collectors can enjoy their creations. 

First collection: Arashiyama

Arashiyama was their first collection and it means "Storm Mountain". Arashiyama also is a district on the western outskirts of Kyoto and it refers to the mountain across the Ōi River too. Arashiyama is a nationally designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty.

In this watch, the color and texture of the dial is a reference to Kiyomizu-yaki, a traditional pottery craft in Kyoto that began in the Edo period. It effectively integrates their artisanal culture into watchmaking with simplicity and elegance.

We appreciate the texts engraved on the back but we would prefer a hand-finished movement that could be observed through an open caseback. The lugs integrate seamlessly with the strap and the case provides an overall smooth and dressy look.

This first collection was comprised of two colour schemes, blue and greenish only. Blue reference is KT1437001A and green KT1437001A. We did not have the chance to examine any of them in person but both dials colours seem to change depending on the lightning conditions. They actually look very special in pictures.

It is powered by an SW261 automatic movement, and the 37mm case is crafted from high-grade 316L stainless steel. The case's finishing is a refined polish, giving it a sleek appearance that is complemented by a classic leather strap. The dial is protected by high-quality sapphire glass. Although it is only water-resistant to 50 meters, this makes it suitable for everyday use and able to withstand brief immersion in water

Interested?

We are! but their watches are out of stock. Only 200 units were produced of their first and only collection, 100 in each color. Moreover, from what we have heard, their next production run is already sold too!

You can take a look at their official website or at their Instagram to learn more about them (@kintoshikyoto_official) but there is not a great amount of content in either platforms. Actually, the brand does not seem to be very active in social media either, which makes it pretty cool and exclusive.

In Vimeo, there is a Video (AD) of the aforementioned collection and it can be watched here.