DESIGN /
PRODUCT
January 7, 2015
PRODUCT|Tokyo Tips September 2014 BACK ISSUE - A curated selection of new product information.
2014.09.25

Holds up to 3 cards
iPhone 6 Shockproof Case
From OtterBox, the number one brand in protective cases for smartphones and tablets in the US, comes a shockproof case for the iPhone 6 (4.7-inch) featuring a dual-layer structure of a silicone inner case and a polycarbonate outer case. Its key feature is a slide-out cover on the back, which provides space to store up to three cards, such as IC cards and credit cards, transforming your phone into a convenient mobile wallet. The included screen protector is also compatible with the iPhone 6's "Touch ID" fingerprint authentication. Open price.
Focal Point
Tel. 03-6447-2987
http://www.focal.co.jp/
2014.09.25

Create a relaxing space just by placing it
Card with 100% natural essential oil aroma
Aronatura is known for its "natural aroma" approach, utilizing 100% naturally extracted oils and incorporating thinned wood into its products. The new "Greeting Aroma" is a diffuser designed for gifting. The thinned wood body is inscribed with a message, and the blended oil at the base is slowly absorbed, releasing a gentle fragrance. Messages include "thank you," "baby," "birthday," and "love." Perfect for a small gift. 3,000 yen (excluding tax).
Aronatura
http://www.aronatura.com/
2014.09.25

Irresistible to the touch
Unique postcards
Sabletterpress, known for its letterpress printing techniques, has launched a new series using silk screen printing. As with their previous work, the printing is done by hand, achieving a smooth finish with ample ink coverage, characteristic of silk screening. The paper used is different on the front and back, with the edges appearing to peel back, rendered in a trompe-l'oeil style. Though simple in construction, they invite you to touch them. Suitable for various occasions, they are perfect to stock up on for the upcoming gift season. 330 yen (excluding tax).
SAB LETTERPRESS
http://sabletterpress.com
2014.09.18

Perfect for active scenes
Professional waterproof action camera
Ricoh's "WG series" digital cameras are known for their excellent waterproof and shock-resistant performance. The new "RICOH WG-M1" features an ultra-wide-angle lens, capable of capturing dynamic Full HD videos with emphasized perspective and high-resolution still images of approximately 14 megapixels. Remarkably, it boasts waterproof performance up to 10 meters without the need for a dedicated underwater housing. The camera also includes Wi-Fi functionality for smartphone connectivity, allowing you to shoot while checking images. It promises to enhance the enjoyment of outdoor activities. Open price.
Ricoh Imaging
Tel. 0570-001313
http://www.ricoh-imaging.co.jp
2014.09.18

Beautiful form derived from material reduction
Sculptural espresso maker
The "Ossidiana" (meaning obsidian in Italian) espresso maker was designed by Sicilian architect Mario Trimarchi. The concept is inspired by the anecdote that obsidian, a type of volcanic rock, was once used for moka pots. The polished aluminum body, which appears to be randomly carved, is ergonomically designed. Its shape ensures a comfortable grip when twisting to open and close the unit. 1-cup version: 8,000 yen, 3-cup version: 10,000 yen, 6-cup version: 13,000 yen (all prices exclude tax).
Alessi Shop Aoyama
Tel. 03-5770-3500
http://www.alessi.jp
2014.09.18

Designer Ryuji Kamiyama
Collaboration with a cat tent
Launched in May, the "#catstudyhouse" by the label "41st Century," which produces bags and chairs, quickly captivated cat lovers. With a bamboo frame covered in durable canvas, this excellent tent offers an open yet cozy space for cats and small dogs to relax. It's so lightweight it can be lifted with just one finger, providing peace of mind for owners who can keep it within sight. Now, a collaboration model with designer Ryuji Kamiyama is available. Kamiyama's organic patterns add an accent to any interior. Available in two sizes. 15,800 yen and 18,800 yen (excluding tax).
FLAVOR.
Tel. 03-3465-3555
http://www.flavor-design.com/
2014.09.11

Ear protectors from the Netherlands
Protect your ears while enjoying sound
Sound levels at clubs and concerts often exceed 100 decibels, leading to an increasing number of people developing hearing loss due to acoustic damage. "THUNDERPLUGS" have now arrived in Japan to address this issue. They allow you to hear desired sounds clearly at music venues and studios while significantly reducing the frequencies that cause hearing damage. They are also useful for noisy work environments like construction sites or factories, or when you need to concentrate in quiet places like libraries. They are washable and hygienic, and come with a special aluminum case. Open price.
Dirigent
Tel. 03-5159-1821
https://www.dirigent.jp
2014.09.11

Created by a popular artist
Communication tool
Masanao Hirayama, an artist highly acclaimed both domestically and internationally, has released works under the name "HIMAA" from overseas publishers such as "Nieves" in Switzerland and "innen" in Hungary. In recent years, his relaxed original products have gained popularity. His latest release is a sticker set featuring illustrations and Japanese text designed to help foreigners learn Japanese. The simple design and concise graphics make them excellent communication tools. They are also recommended for customization, such as applying them to notebooks or planners. Set of 6 stickers, 5x8 cm. 500 yen (excluding tax).
MASANAO HIRAYAMA
http://www.himaa.cc
2014.09.11

EnaLloid × Kaoru Kawakami
Vintage-style eyewear
Ena Eyewear Industry's original brand "EnaLloid" has collaborated with stylist Kaoru Kawakami to release the new model "Little Emma-2." In addition to their impeccable craftsmanship, the small frames and subdued colors create a vintage feel, resulting in a design that suits both men and women. The temples are printed with an icon of Kawakami by illustrator Noritake, and a matching graphic cleaning cloth is included. Available in three colors. Release date: September 26 (Friday). 24,000 yen (excluding tax).
SARAH DISTRIBUITION TOKYO
Tel. 03-6427-7239
http://www.thorough.jp/enalloid/
2014.09.04

Ready to move in an emergency
Innovative emergency sleeping bag
With growing awareness of disaster preparedness, challenges like the inability to sleep comfortably on hard floors when stranded at the office can arise. The "Wearable Futon & Air Mat" is a disaster preparedness item designed to alleviate such discomfort. This wearable, human-shaped sleeping bag is a free-size unisex item that can even be worn with shoes on. The approximately 5 cm thick air mat protects the body from the hardness and cold of the floor. Stored in an A4 file-sized box, it's ideal for keeping in office bookshelves to reduce stress during emergencies. 4,500 yen (excluding tax).
King Jim Customer Service
0120-79-8107
http://www.kingjim.co.jp/
2014.09.04

Uniform sound playback in all directions
Waterproof and shock-resistant wireless speaker
The "Scosche boomBOTTLE mini" is a portable speaker designed for outdoor enthusiasts who want high-quality sound anytime, anywhere. It combines shock and water resistance with a compact size (6.9 cm diameter, 6.2 cm height, approx. 306g). Despite its small size, it features a 40mm speaker with 3W output and a passive subwoofer, delivering powerful, authentic audio. The built-in rechargeable lithium polymer battery provides up to 10 hours of continuous playback. Available in three colors. Open price.
Focal Point
Tel. 03-6447-2987
http://www.focal.co.jp/
2014.09.04

Minimalist stool
Available in colorful variations
This autumn, six new color models will be added to the "Ulm Stool," a masterpiece of minimalist design. Originally created for students at the "Ulm School of Design," which inherited the principles of the Bauhaus, this stool features an extremely streamlined U-shape. While the traditional unpainted model uses spruce for the seat and sides, the color models utilize birch. The legs are joined using a "lap joint" technique, and the crossbar uses a "wedge tenon joint." Each stool is signed by Max Bill on the underside. Adding a touch of color to your interior with these new models would be a great idea. Release date: September 25 (Thursday). 65,000 yen (excluding tax).
METROCS
Tel. 03-5777-5866
http://metrocs.jp