Jiro Katayama has stealthily unveiled a new mechanical timepiece under his brand, Ōtsuka Lotēc. Dubbed No.5 KAI, the new satellite hour watch arrives in a unique design featuring rotating numeral discs on the watch face. These discs orbit around the watch in a satellite-like manner, complemented by fixed hour markers to indicate the time.
Measuring 40.5mm in case diameter, the timepiece boasts a 7.6mm thickness. Within the sapphire crystal, the minute index plate and hour disks are designed to cast distinct shadows as they move, adding to the piece’s visual appeal.
Building on the design of the original No.5 model released in 2012, the No.5 KAI introduces refinements to the case while continuing to incorporate two Japan-made ball bearings from MinebeaMitsumi.
To showcase the static satellite hour mechanism, the design ensures clear visibility of the movement. Powered by a Miyota movement with an in-house satellite hour module, the watch’s design also addresses the backlash between the components thanks to the incorporation of a double reduction gear.
The Satellite hour mechanism was originally created for night clocks to consolidate the hour and minute display at the top of the dial due to visual constraints. In the No.5 KAI, this mechanism has been adapted to fit the needs of a modern wristwatch, while also addressing the common occurrence where parts of the watch dial are often covered by sleeve cuffs.
Boasting a price tag of ¥748,000 JPY (approx. $4,770 USD), Ōtsuka Lotēc’s No.5 KAI will be released via a raffle system on its official website in March.
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