How I custom made a 1 of 1 Mechanical Watch!

When I first envisioned creating the Ichigo Spirit mechanical watch, I wanted it to be more than a timepiece. Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of Ichigo Ichie—which emphasizes treasuring each unique moment—the watch became a reflection of my personal journey, values, and technical skill. Here’s how I turned this vision into a handcrafted, one-of-a-kind heirloom.

The Inspiration Behind the Ichigo Spirit

The concept for the Ichigo Spirit was born from my experience at the World Shotokan Karate Federation World Championship in Tokyo, where I placed fourth among competitors from 58 countries. My sensei's teachings about Ichigo Ichie guided me during that time, encouraging me to seize fleeting opportunities. This philosophy became the soul of my watch, a constant reminder to cherish the present moment.

Designing the Watch

From the start, I wanted the Ichigo Spirit to embody resilience, craftsmanship, and timelessness. I selected high-quality materials, including 316 stainless steel for the case, a durable anodized aluminum dial, and the Swiss ETA 6497-1 mechanical movement. At 48mm, the case makes a bold statement, while the laser-engraved back crystal adds a personal touch.

The design process involved countless sketches and iterations, with a focus on simplicity and durability. I modified the movement to remove the seconds hand, symbolizing the importance of focusing on the present rather than tracking fleeting moments.

The Challenges of Manufacturing

Producing the Ichigo Spirit watch was no easy feat. The manufacturing process involved CNC machining, bead blasting for a smooth matte finish, and precise laser engraving for the dial and case back. The components came together in perfect harmony, though not without challenges.

A highlight of the project was sourcing the Swiss ETA 6497-1 movement from a used pocket watch. Despite being a gamble, it turned out to be in pristine condition, adding both sentimental and monetary value to the watch.

Crafting an Heirloom

Assembling the Ichigo Spirit was a meticulous process. Each component was carefully fitted, from the custom-machined case to the hand-polished crystals. The watch’s exhibition case back allows a glimpse of the movement, symbolizing the fleeting nature of opportunities.

Despite its substantial weight of 280 grams, the ergonomic design ensures comfort, while the interchangeable stainless-steel strap provides flexibility.

A Symbol of Personal Growth

The Ichigo Spirit represents more than a technical achievement; it’s a deeply personal artifact that tells my story. From the karate kick engraved on the dial to the resilient materials chosen for longevity, every detail reflects my commitment to craftsmanship and my journey as a designer.

Lessons Learned

Creating the Ichigo Spirit taught me valuable lessons in design, manufacturing, and storytelling. It reinforced the importance of blending technical precision with emotional resonance to create products that are both functional and meaningful.

The Ichigo Spirit is not just a watch—it's a legacy. By combining traditional craftsmanship with a modern philosophy, I’ve created a timepiece that celebrates the beauty of the moment and the lasting impact of thoughtful design.