This Japanese watchmaker spends a year to make one watch | Remarkable Living

Independent watchmaker Masahiro Kikuno makes each of his wristwatches almost entirely by hand, and by himself. In this video, find out how his dedication and passion sustains his craft, and how he hopes to share Japanese culture with the world through his creations.
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[@ramrod132]

Clearly, passion and artistry cannot be reduced to a price tag, but for those wondering, wikipedia says his watches sell for around $160,000 USD.

[@SRVandDtrouble]

That actually seems cheap somehow.

[@coolbreeze2.0-mortemadfasc13]

@Jipke It does to me given the craftsmanship and the fact that other watch brands sell for more while mass producing.

[@coolbreeze2.0-mortemadfasc13]

@Jipke Depends on how you define mass produced. Watches are being sold for more than 160k that are not one of a kind and don't take a full year to be made.

[@coolbreeze2.0-mortemadfasc13]

@Jipke Seek help.

[@astrosanimelab2234]

@Jipke must have never heard of AP or Patek

[@mohitthapa2265]

At that rate there will be not many that he will make in his lifetime.. makes them even more desirable, rare.. he is an artist..

[@farhanali7455]

Sure but supply is not the only thing that aids in appreciation, demand does as well. Unless reason of purchase is the novelty factor or what may have you.

[@mikaelgauslaa5547]

@@farhanali7455 Lets be real tho, the demand is definitely gonna be there.

[@Radiomannn]

Couldn't agree more

[@johnwayne2103]

Look up Philippe Dufour

[@afiqdanial3053]

@@mikaelgauslaa5547 currently he's not accepting order

[@christiantosumbung5791]

More than anything else, a measure of a prosperous society is one in which a person such as this is valued and can thrive.

[@RahulKumar-ng2gh]

If you think a bit deep, it's like old aristocratic society when kings and nobles used to support artisans, now rich people doing the same

[@boomerhgt]

Rahul Kumar Yes that's true

[@sentry2236]

IF only the same could be said for Mexican Artisanal Salt Producers

[@fernandomelgar892]

@@sentry2236 Very true, artisans can come from anywhere. Staying true to your roots won't necessarily gain your notoriety, though is usually the most intuitive approach.

[@slickpeeker]

@@RahulKumar-ng2gh very pessimistic outlook. a lot of passionate artists these days can thrive as long as they are in a conducive environment, with or without the rich's support. the goal is to express artistic endeavor, and being commissioned by the rich for their own liking defeats this purpose

[@appalachiangunman9589]

Somewhere a Swiss man is shedding a tear of joy watching this video.

[@xres1329]

I live in Geneva. Lots of folks who spent (and wasted) their lives in watchmaking live their final days eating in soup kitchens. Buy whole workshops here!

[@johanvandersandt8904]

@@xres1329 That is super sad... Why is that though? Those men are craftsmen and artists too and dont deserve such an undignified end.

[@xres1329]

@@johanvandersandt8904 Surprise! The life is not fair. Then-we die. Is not it a bitch?

[@johanvandersandt8904]

@@xres1329 Yeah... That is true... I just like to remind myself that it could always be worse man and often times it is.

[@xres1329]

@@johanvandersandt8904 Just don`t overdo it-Because it just MAY do that!

[@visho8979]

Japan is one place where ancient techniques, artifacts, and culture still lives on with the same passion as when it started. I've seen many videos where Japanese craftsmen are able to economically survive and follow their passions.

[@Michael-0000]

It’s the same with Japanese hand tools. Take the KTC Nepros screwdrivers with their beautifully lacquered wooden handles and their socket drive sets. Almost too beautiful to use and definitely tools one would want on display!

[@jazzman5598]

I am an old musician. I so appreciate what you do. This is where craft at the highest level transforms into art. Peace

[@PersonaN007Grata]

Stunning. And I thought Grand Seiko and Credor were the only interesting handcrafted pieces coming out of Japan. I wonder how many kidneys one must sell to purchase one of his works. The “making of” book is everything.

[@grandvizir]

Around 150K, fairly reasonable when you consider labor.

[@dante7228]

Damn, I don't have enough kidneys to sell!

[@Dankyjrthethird]

There’s a few other independents in japan making more (relatively) affordable watches, also very nice Check out kikuchi nagawa and asaoka hajime

[@TheHitman-]

I have an 1883 waltham pocket watch movement...14kt Gold. No cracks, no scratches, runs perfectly, keeps time perfectly. I had to fight 50 people in a bid war, but I won in the end. And I'm so happy 😊 it makes a patek look like horse poo.

[@marta9127]

He is amazing! His dedication and passion are inspiring.

[@avarmauk]

I love that he documents the making and gives that with the watch. I am sure his watches will go down as Japanese horological treasures.

[@shirts2003]

An artist who doesn’t care about getting rich or famous. He just loves the work he does. Loves the watches he makes. In a world that moves faster than the hands of the watches he makes, I respect him for making his work successful in a competitive market.

[@jamesbizs]

Oh please lol his watches sell for $150,000 and up

[@youdalin2621]

Remember that 150k had to cover his entire living expenses and operation costs for a whole year - not much when you think about it

[@DerickMagic]

Google on the price , Made completely by hand, 6 daylight hours and 6 night hours slowly move around the watch face with the seasons. Each ¥18million (approximately $160,000 USD) watch is tuned to the customer's latitude by Kikuno.

[@hammerhand7]

yep, check him on Instagram, the watches he make are pure art.

[@qiqiyawn8683]

What do you mean by 6 daylight hours and 6 night hours?

[@ristopaasivirta9770]

@@qiqiyawn8683 It's an old japanese time system where the day and night are split each into six units. The lengths of these units vary on the current season (in winter the night "hours" are longer than the day hours, in summer the day hours are longer than the night hours). This also depends on the latitude you are on, switching from northern to southern hemisphere would reverse this behavior of course.

[@prmdc1]

I can’t believe that I’m saying $160,000 is way too cheap.

[@getsajal]

@@prmdc1 I believe he needs to charge his pieces 3,4 times that price.

[@birjub9647]

Its all about satisfaction, the maker gets satisfied making the watch sells it to his customer who gets satisfied wearing the watch. Watchmaking is an art!

[@rightuppercut1426]

His craftmanship and patience is out of this world

[@dhruvverma2000]

wow every japanese craftsman on KZbin is so damn talented. They are gifted with something that others can only dream about.

[@mrpotatoskin2803]

Sakubou is Kikuno's latest creation, having just been unveiled at Baselworld 2017, his most distinctive wristwatch, however, is undoubtedly the Wadokei wristwatch. This starts at (about US$160,000) for the basic version, rising to (US$225,000) for the fully engraved model. He is a inspiration to every watch maker.

[@gungho57]

They are NOT expensive if you look at the passion and craftsmanship. Patek Philippe has models well over 250K and they are industrial pieces. I think he is underpricing himself.

[@ThatOneStalin]

​@@gungho57well...guess he's a humble man, but I do belive ur point of view

[@gregchapman5556]

Absolutely fascinating. What a craftsman. I’m lucky to own 3 mechanical watches. I love them because they are alive.

[@Mikeyvn]

I'm a watch enthusiast as well, which ones do you have?

[@go72ko]

@@Mikeyvn I have golden coated DOXA a Swiss made watch a gift from my father. It is maybe around 50 years old.

[@artirana3241]

He is smart, i admire his art ! And his looks!! Wish to visit his shop when i visit japan

[@pratul96]

Same

[@stevewoodburn3347]

This is amazing. I can feel his passion and love for what he does, which is so rare these days. I doubt I could ever afford one of these, but have no doubt they are worth every penny.

[@puzzler604]

You know how it goes when someone says they make the perfect suit. I believe he makes the best of what can be made possible by any tailor with current knowledge. His awareness of the improbability to make a perfect suit makes him the perfect man for this quest.

[@lisathomas1622]

Beautiful! I’m a craftsman too. I’m 58 and have worked word, metal, wool and paint. These watches are wonderful. I know exactly what he meant when he stated how he enjoys making the pieces. I personally don’t get that same satisfaction in machine manufacturing. It’s satisfying, but when I do my work by hand, it’s on a different level of satisfaction, entirely different. Like cooking a premade meal vs making it from scratch.

[@jonathanturner4220]

Just like the master samurai sword makers of old. This gentleman creates poetic mechanical marvels for the wrist.. Much respect and honor for this craftsman.

[@camarocharger8180]

This gave me the same feeling as watching the Nissan GTR engine being hand built by the masters. Built to perfection.

[@bruceboatwright7488]

I find myself watching more than once, reading the captions on the first pass, mesmerized by the work the second or third time. Superb production values. This seems to hold true in all your videos. I'll always watch more than once. Thank you for making my evening. Bruce

[@davidcobb7446]

Intelligence, knowledge, great skill, patience, perseverance, much drive and ambition as well as artistic vision and a sense of history..... and we could all be great watchmakers. Great video, thank you very much.

[@dayax3335]

This is amazing piece of art. Respect for this man and Japanese as a nation of high esteem.

[@johncantrell614]

Pretty cool. It must be nice to have that much passion in making something, and the patience to do it a step at a time, in the most thoughtful, and uncompromising way. And when looking at the finished product, you then understand why you did in just such a way.......🙂

[@SD-nq6kg]

Let's be honest...his work is priceless really. How can value this, amazing. Probably only ever be 50 pieces he ever makes. Can only imagine their value in the future.

[@section-9]

時計のデザインも素晴らしく魅力がありますね

[@forrwhat]

Amazing dedication to a craft! Thank you for sharing. In Hawaii we used to have a show from Japan called Soko Ga Shiritai that showcased many of Japan's artisans!

[@haohaohaha]

Stunning craftsmanship and breathtaking design of timepiece. I always love watching this kind of documentary cause it redefind the depth of life of human being.

[@martin-fc4kk]

making books about your passion is so great, to share is everything!

[@arungera4041]

Honoured to see a great artist Pray we preserve the treasure of our world

[@phillrock874]

A true Artisan! I don't have that level of expertise or focus.

[@boomerhgt]

Not many do

[@brewwatchco]

He is a brilliant watchmaker!

[@hummerbeats]

That is incredible, art on another level

[@dvms75]

Priceless... tradition, artistry, honest work with a purpose. Love ancient values.

[@johnthomas7907]

Amen ... Unfortunately today there is no value for tradition .. simply look how how many skills are lost ... No artistry... Listen to modern day music ... No honest work with a purpose ... Most industries have become self serving and profit minded .. I'm thankful that these series of documentaries are captured as an artefact of how things should ... Man and morality has become senile and redundant from birth

[@Demonspeeding251]

Such an incredible process, I'm new to watches in general and seeing the passion people put into it is just amazing.

[@ussweeneyd]

A lovely story and a great man.

[@maikeirini4631]

Truly, a remarkable craftsman! If only I could afford a watch made by you!

[@jeetendrasonawane7593]

Creative and innovative people are the most satisfied people in the world

[@boomerhgt]

Sometimes the most tortured also

[@timothyball3144]

I didnt understand a word that he said, but he seems to be a person to admire. He is quietly proud of what he does, but isn't arrogant about it. I dont want to say that he is humble, because - to me anyway - that would mean that he downplays his abilities. He doesn't do that. He knows that he is good, but just lets his work speak for itself.

[@Eza_yuta]

This guy is so passionated

[@selenabonilla2281]

Wow...thank you for this video! Honestly I just ordered a wrist watch for myself lol I doubt it's handmade but with artwork like this is nice to see what happened behind the scenes. I would love to see more watches utilize the clock face grandfather clocks have with the moving sky that shows the sun and moon for the passing of time.

[@carpentrydesigndovetail4219]

great guy- the book is a genius touch

[@stephenreynolds6239]

Truly amazing young man.

[@sparkplay2369]

If I was a balling rapper this is the man I’d go to.

[@mattbne7403]

then proceed to bling out the piece after getting it

[@joe-vl3nd]

Wow Great Stuff Real passion Beautiful time pieces

[@rolandwheeler4842]

Amazing skill and passion!

[@akrocuba]

Simply OUTSTANDING!

[@LambentOrt]

Beautiful timepieces!

[@shdsfGray]

I admire every watchmaker

[@robertling9872]

Beautiful 🙏

[@AndrewCampbell-ut6jk]

Incredible.

[@photographingtoronto2350]

They are works of art in the form of a watch.

[@patrickbaitman8336]

The books should be hand written, containing written notes, measurements, and sketches....in his blood from a cut he got while making the watch.

[@BobBob-oe9uf]

You misspelled "Bateman".

[@patrickbaitman8336]

@@BobBob-oe9uf Should've went with "Bob" I guess. Easier to spell, even if you get it backwards.

[@threethrushes]

Let's see Paul Allen's watch.

[@hichembouhlel2825]

Amazing skills !

[@mohdnoor9511]

I hope one day I can make one... its so inspiring watching this video... thank you Sir for sharing.

[@grahamekellermeier8280]

Amazing skill great watch it's a work of art.

[@katasiapa]

Beautiful

[@prytor]

this is another level of art

[@Live-Life-Freely]

I also used to take a year to finish an assignment and all that just to have to explain that it was so good that my dog ate it.

[@Losttoanyreason]

Master craftsman and artist in one.

[@kanedateng7604]

This is art

[@Toboldlygo721]

I think I've seen one of these watches before made by this man with the numeral blocks they move side to side according to the season 😌👍🏻✨ This man produces the most extremely beautiful watches with his machinery that he has to work with, & it must be wonderful to work with those machines.

[@MimMim-yf9pn]

Stunning work, hope to own one someday

[@TheMjphoto45]

Good luck

[@alexworm1707]

That book is a stroke of genious. He should make high end videos too.

[@calcmandan]

Does he create everything by hand? Like the hairspring or the main spring and spring barrel? If so that's truly impressive for the modern age.

[@vickrambal3239]

Mind blown!! Amazing

[@mehdi2429]

incredible.i am speechless.❤❤❤❤

[@EricBishard]

Beautiful watches

[@kayanpi5341]

He is amazing at what he does, but personally his designs are not for me.... Then again way to go mister... u r truly gifted

[@duncanidaho2130]

Sweet video. Thank you.

[@alexkaranja3443]

Very Inspiring....

[@AEYEWOLF]

Passion is not something that can be found through scientific analysis

[@MuhammadTayyab-iv4rd]

Google AI hold my beer ...😁😁😁

[@alexandreferro3638]

Magnífico!!!

[@over2seeyer]

Now this is passion!

[@user-mf8xr3ke1w]

This is truly beautiful.... I'll be truly honored to have a watch made by your very hands ..

[@rollinrock6696]

Phenomenal!

[@arjunvrai]

Fantastic❤️

[@urbanhunter81]

One of a kind.

[@aquil3scach088]

How all began speaking with his commander: -Do you like old watches? -Actually i find them boring - you know you can make 200000 year? -i quit army right now! I began to love those magnificent machines

[@anthonyrivers8395]

Beautiful ❤ elegant 🎍

[@LockheedMonster]

02:46 anybody else noticed it?

[@capricorn839]

Nope

[@mjlives5428]

Yes the ball sac was a perfect dimension.

[@itsbdk4827]

Don't worry, I did 😂😂

[@daichifernando9364]

Nice work

[@fredoman2683]

Tremendous! Back in late 80's i was giving a Swatch watch all black, it was the best feeling. This has nothing to do with this video lol i just taught i share how much i like watches😜

[@clacicle]

Pretty amazing. The only criticism is that the subtitles are covering part of the video. They need to be placed lower.

[@smallcnclathes]

Placed lower, they can conflict with YT generated subtitles. This is my experience anyway. I now put my captions at the top, this way, any hearing impaired folks can use the YT subtitles.

[@enriqueali]

Roger W Smith must feel very flattered... imitation being the sincerest form of flattery! At least in the dedication to solo watchmaking, if not in the actual design aesthetic of the end product

[@amenhotep7704]

Japanese are masters at watch crafting

[@Zharticrafts143zha]

Wow how i wish to have one

[@importfun7192]

Hmm , cuddling my Casio ri8 now after watching this.😊

[@eduardogomezramirez2285]

Felicidades por su trabajo, soy relojero de México saludos

[@Asifur_Rahman]

This Japanese man is Awesome...he has good potential

[@brunodesrosiers266]

‘’Good’’ potential!? You mean ‘’extraordinary’’!!!

[@voltgaming2213]

Bruh he is a master

[@Asifur_Rahman]

@@brunodesrosiers266 yes

[@Asifur_Rahman]

@@brunodesrosiers266 good potential mean he has talent to create something good

[@Actingskint]

This is the first time , since wearing a watch as a boy, that I'd like a watch again . Of course , I could never afford his prices . But we're I able, then I would be on the flight to see this man .

[@PersonaN007Grata]

I would like to know more about the movement that he makes. Funny saying, “he makes.”

[@Horologybiz]

What's the exact name of that Panto engraving machine? I'm assuming the dro is added. Someone from Switzerland said he buys up failed Watchmaking shops. It that Niel's Machines?

[@cryoine7194]

I wished one of them could have been gifted to that army superior, I would love to be there for a moment like that too

[@andreasarmyrantis5905]

I'm a certified watchmaker, and i'm speechless.

[@Joellercoaster]

I had never heard the word "wadokei" ("Japanese clock") before, in the uniquely Japanese way of referring to their own traditions ("washoku" - traditional Japanese food, "washitsu" - a traditional Japanese style room, and so on). This is the only watch I can imagine wearing with wafuku (no points for guessing this one) and feeling appropriate... or at least as appropriate as a 6'5" white dude could feel :P Very awesome.

[@VulcanOnWheels]

Analog watches are not my thing, but I do understand the amount of work and hand control this takes.