Handcrafted Dedication That Moves the Soul

ShimadaOtherwise, it would blur the lines between personal and professional. Fundamentally, I don't think I've ever proactively done anything for Kato-pee (Kato's nickname).
It's more likely that other people at 'LEON' would inquire, 'What do you think of the new collection?', leading to features. There were even cases where the price was decided after the item was featured, like the triple ring combining three types of gold with three leather cords (laughs).

KatoWhen it was featured, it was listed as a reference product.

ShimadaFrom an editorial perspective, what we want to feature is, simply put, what we desire. Whether it's music, art, or anything else, I think we're constantly searching for things that strongly move us, things driven by passion.
Nowadays, many brands are focused purely on marketing, but nine SIXty remains steadfast, almost like a craftsman. I imagine many people are drawn to that quality. Even if you wanted to mass-produce them, his rings are quite difficult to replicate... .

KatoThank you. The fact that it's handmade is the core of the jewelry I create, so I don't really think about mass production or copies.

ShimadaI asked some acquaintances, and apparently, it's extremely difficult to replicate the intricate details of his rings and sell them as ready-made items (laughs).

— Is that so? You must also receive a lot of inspiration from Mr. Shimada, Mr. Kato.

KatoYes. Always.

Shimada— In what way? (laughs)

KatoHe has a lot of knowledge and has seen many excellent things, so his sense is very sharp. When I finish a new piece, he's one of the first people I want to show it to. He can intuitively sense, 'Ah, this part could be improved,' and convey that feeling.

ShimadaAnd if it's not good, I'll tell him directly (laughs).

The Coolness of Deviation Embodied in Jewelry

KatoA sense of freedom?

ShimadaYes. The idea that it's okay to enjoy fashion by deviating from societal norms. For example, Alexander McQueen himself, who 'LEON' also focuses on for his style, was photographed wearing a diamond ring somewhat casually, and it looked exceptionally cool.
There was also a time when Mr. Shigematsu of United Arrows and Karl Lagerfeld wore multiple silver rings on both hands, giving off a somewhat punkish, rugged vibe that exuded adult allure.

ShimadaWell, you've been blessed with a wonderful partner in Azusa, and you're truly fortunate in your relationships at work, so you have to live up to that and work hard (laughs).

KatoYes, I feel that very strongly (laughs).

— (Laughs) Thank you very much, Mr. Shimada and Mr. Kato.