Watch & Jewelry
May 4, 2015
Chapter 3 TOYOTA BLADE Meets Fashion | Fashion Director Hiroshi Morioka Speaks (Part 2)
Chapter 3
TOYOTA BLADE meets Fashion
As Told by Fashion Director Hiroshi Morioka
A Car That Reflects Its Owner's Worldview (Part 2)
Blade, Fashion, and Watches: Adorning the Self—.
Under this theme, fashion director Hiroshi Morioka, known for his modern and sharp styling, proposes an "unconventionally mature" look that befits the Toyota Blade, through his own styling and watch selections.
Text by Fumio OgawaPhotos by JamandfixWith the cooperation of Shinjuku Park Tower
Always Elegant—Blancpain "Fifty Fathoms"
The word "aura," which Hiroshi Morioka discussed in the first part, is a keyword he also emphasizes when choosing a wristwatch as a fashion director. This time, he has selected three watches that he feels match the Blade.
One is the Blancpain "Fifty Fathoms." This model from the company's sports collection is characterized by its blend of sportiness and elegance. Morioka chose the all-black stainless steel case version.
"It's not ostentatiously flashy, but simply elegant. I believe people who choose Blancpain have strong convictions. It's cool to have a strong attachment, like 'I'm driving the Blade today, so this sporty model is the only choice!' I'm not a big fan of the concept of 'mix-and-match'; I value the idea of something that 'only suits this, but suits it exceptionally well' over something that 'goes with everything.' I think the combination of the Blade and the Fifty Fathoms embodies that."
A Perfect Match for the Blade's Interior—RADO "r5.5"
Another selection that showcases the fashion director's discerning eye is the RADO "r5.5." This piece features an intricate design with a case curvature of 5.5mm, conceived by British product designer Jasper Morrison. It's a model highly regarded for its design, with a ceramic case and a tapered, elaborately crafted bracelet.
"This watch is cool, isn't it? People who are particular about precision watches might not choose it. But I think this model pairs exceptionally well with the Blade's highly designed interior. Isn't that kind of coordination important? It's easy to overlook matching things in the pursuit of performance or brand name. But for a mature individual driving a Blade, if you saw the r5.5 peeking out from the cuff of a sporty sweater, you'd think, 'That person has great style.' Of course, someone choosing this watch likely owns several. Instead of fixating only on high-end models, they skillfully alternate based on the situation. That, too, is an aesthetic of refinement."
A Harmonious Blend of Classic and Contemporary—ZENITH "New Vintage 1969"
And for the third watch, Hiroshi Morioka chose the ZENITH "New Vintage 1969." The model name commemorates the 40th anniversary of the debut of Zenith's masterpiece movement, the El Primero. Beyond the movement's excellence, its subtly curved crystal and the small stainless steel case, skillfully incorporating straight lines, are particularly appealing.
"I focused on the New Vintage 1969 because it incorporates a classic design as a flavor, and the way it's balanced with modernity is truly appealing. Just as overly strong statements tend to be avoided in current fashion, this watch can be perceived as modern or authentic depending on the wearer's sensibility. I call this the 'power to harmonize.' People with that sensibility can present themselves without their clothing overpowering, creating a wonderful atmosphere. It reminds me of the Blade, which, while offering a comfortable ride and possessing authentic value, incorporates modern elements in its dashboard design and materials to avoid appearing purely classic."
A Short Premium for the Discerning Adult
There's a saying, "dressing a car," which usually refers to cars with driving dynamics close to one's own physical sensations, like sports cars. However, one could also use the expression "dressing a car" as a tool for self-expression. If fashion and watches are the optimal tools for expressing oneself according to time, place, and situation, then a car can also be a tool for self-expression. For a mature individual who has experienced life's ups and downs to drive the Blade, created with the value of a "short premium," is precisely the choice of an unconventionally cool adult. This is the conclusion we can draw from Hiroshi Morioka's insights.
Blancpain "Fifty Fathoms"
The all-black model added to Blancpain's proud masterpiece diver's watch, the "Fifty Fathoms." The sharp-looking black case is treated with DLC coating. In addition to this black model, there is also an all-white model that perfectly suits the summer sun. Automatic, stainless steel case x sail canvas strap, ¥1,522,500.
Blancpain Boutique Ginza Tel. 03-6254-7233
RADO "r5.5 Chronograph"
A chronograph designed by British product designer Jasper Morrison. The designer's vision is reflected in the square ceramic case with a 5.5mm curvature. The collection includes not only chronographs but also three-hand models. Quartz, matte ceramic case & bracelet x titanium buckle, ¥367,500.
Swatch Group Japan Rado Division Tel. 03-6254-7331
ZENITH "New Vintage 1969 Original"
Zenith's chronograph movement, "El Primero," beats at 36,000 vibrations per hour. Last year, marking its 40th anniversary, a复刻 (reissue) of the model that first featured the El Primero in 1969 was released. The cushion case size, reminiscent of the original, has been increased by 3mm. The design of the multi-colored sub-dials is beautiful. Automatic, stainless steel case x alligator strap, ¥924,000.
LVMH Watch & Jewelry Japan Zenith Tel. 03-3613-3946
MORIOKA Hiroshi
Fashion Director / Stylist. After graduating from Waseda University, he joined Fujingaho Co., Ltd. (now Hachette Fujingaho Co., Ltd.). He worked as a fashion editor in the editorial department of "Men's Club." After leaving the company, he established the creative office "GLOBE" in 1996. He styles actors, artists, athletes, and cultural figures.
He is active in a wide range of fields centered on fashion, including designing and producing corporate uniforms, producing apparel and lifestyle brands, and handling fashion direction and styling for advertisements and magazines.
