Seiji Nabata
Watch Writer

Review 2008
A significant find related to Leica during a business trip in June reignited my passion for film cameras, which had been dormant for some time. This led me to purchase a pre-war Leica, a Contax SLR in Dresden, and receive esteemed cameras like the Hasselblad and Rolleiflex from fellow photographers. Naturally, this spurred a desire to shoot with them. Consequently, I found myself shouldering the weight of these cameras and capturing images, often with a groan. It became unclear whether I was using the cameras or they were using me. Despite the convenience of digital, the most memorable event of the year was my personal endeavor to keep the flame of film photography alive.

Preview 2009
The global economic downturn has cast a shadow over the watch industry, my area of expertise. However, dwelling on the negatives can lead to a recession of spirit, so I intend to approach it with a "bring it on" attitude and continue my work as usual. Beyond watches, I aim to broaden my activities to encompass men's luxury goods in general. I look forward to meeting new people and passionately discussing the allure of both objects and individuals, perhaps even more so than before.


A Watch Enthusiast's Notebook
Trumpery & Hill Report

Maki Hashiguchi
Modus Vivendi Inc. Representative / PR Coordinator


Review 2008
2008 was a milestone year, both personally and professionally. It was exciting in many ways!
First and foremost, I got married. My husband is Italian, and navigating our cultural differences has been a unique experience. It marked the start of our new life together, opening a door to a thrilling, unprecedented chapter.
I wanted to cherish the fundamental aspects of communication: 'words' and 'conveying meaning'.
In 2008, I re-evaluated my capabilities and contributions to the work I'm involved in.

Preview 2009

In 2009, I aim to pursue my authentic self. I want to challenge myself without being confined by my past self or established style.
Furthermore, I hope to engage in various forms of communication through OPENERS in 2009.
Also, it will be 20 years since I started working in eyewear. I want to convey the unique joy of eyewear through OPENERS, approaching it from a different perspective than before.
I look forward to your continued support.


"Ray-Ban" x "AU"
Ray-Ban Wayfarer Introduces "Additional Color"

JAM HOME MADE & ready made

Review 2008
We were able to deliver JAM to more customers than ever before, through both new product development and environmental initiatives that were new to JAM, and by continuing our commitment to creating "good" products as always.
Thank you.

Preview 2009
Next year, we will continue to create even more interesting and "good" products.
We look forward to your continued support.


rumors
JAM HOME MADE & ready made

Yuta Nishiura
Artist

Review 2008
It felt like two years packed into one. I met many new people, was supported by old friends and acquaintances, and felt a growing sense of gratitude as I witnessed how things unfold.

It's been exactly 10 years since I started sculpting. It feels like I've completed a full circle and have finally begun to walk, letting out a bark. It was a year filled with precious moments, both positive and negative.

Preview 2009
I want to continue creating things that move the heart and hands, small yet significant works.


LOUNGE NEWS

Eiichi Yoshimura
Writer / Editor

Review 2008
When I visited London last June for the YMO concert (for which I also wrote an article in this magazine), the yen was at its weakest. I experienced both the triumphant spirit of Europe at the time and the sorrow of being an economically weak nation, sighing at the cost of meals. Just six months later, the global economy had drastically changed. It was a year of astonishment, realizing that changes which would have once taken a decade were now happening in mere months.
At the same time, I hold onto hope, as such times seem to foster drastic, positive changes across various fields.

Preview 2009
I aim to keep a close eye on these positive changes and be among the first to report them, thereby broadening their impact.


YMO European Tour Report