Maker's Watch Knot has begun accepting pre-orders on the crowdfunding platform Makuake for a limited edition watch created in collaboration with Daizo Makihara, one of only three independent watchmakers in Japan recognized by the AHCI (Académie Horlogère des Créateurs Indépendants) based in Switzerland. The watch is brimming with Japanese aesthetic, featuring engraved cherry blossom motifs and hands inspired by Edo Kiriko cut glass.

Knot, a Made in Japan watch brand, has launched a collaborative watch with Daizo Makihara, who became the third Japanese member of the Academy of Independent Watchmakers for his works incorporating Japanese techniques and imagery. Pre-orders are now open on the crowdfunding platform Makuake.

This timepiece was born from the "Knot A Bridge to the Future Project," an initiative founded with the desire to connect with the future while preserving timeless essence, even as technology advances and environments change.

Makihara has created two designs featuring a "cherry blossom" motif, with his own hand-engraved work on the open-heart section. Customers can choose between "Fu-oh" (Floating Cherry Blossom), evoking the image of cherry blossoms drifting on a river, and "Rin-oh" (Ring Cherry Blossom), with a circular aperture.

Like the dial, the sapphire crystal on the case back is also adorned with cherry blossom motifs, revealing the Japanese-made movement ticking at 28,800 vibrations per hour through the see-through back. The round case is crafted by Hayashi Seiki Seizo, the only company in Japan with over 100 years of history. The case, finished with Zaratsu polishing—a technique requiring expert skill—features mirror-polished lugs and facets, while the sides are finished with a hairline texture, creating a sense of luxury through contrasting finishes. The limited edition serial number is engraved on the case back.

As a special Makuake-exclusive set, the strap can be chosen from four colors of crocodile leather. It is also interchangeable with Knot's other straps, allowing for style coordination.

Strap customization can also be experienced at the gallery shop or online shop (https://knot-designs.com/customorder/). Additionally, initials can be engraved on the case sides, between the lugs, as an optional feature.

The actual watch will be exhibited at the Omotesando Premium Salon starting early April 2022 (https://knot-designs.com/f/stores/omotesando). For more details, be sure to check the Makuake project updates for ongoing information.