ith the 7 Windows collection, Minase wanted to create a watch that would showcase its vision by embracing geometric designs seldom seen in watchmaking. In Japan, mathematics and geometry are not just for academics, but are utilized to emphasize aesthetic dimensions of beauty.

The rectangular case symbolizes the imperfection of our earthly world, while the round shape of the dial symbolizes perfection, infinity, calm. The 7 sapphire crystal windows reveal the dial, viewed through the watch case from a multitude of different angles.

While our universe is and will always remain imperfect, Minase thinks there is always a way to look further. And by embracing this design philosophy, the brand aims to show there are many beautiful things and if we take the time to look at them, the imperfections will matter less.

Manufactured in Japan, all Minase timepieces bear the registered label “HiZ”, a concept inspired by the Japanese words Hizu (exceptional) and Hi Izuru Kuni (Land of the rising sun). The products labelled HiZ are unique with innovative features such as the “case in case” structure, the extraordinary Sallaz (Zaratsu) finish and the construction principle “MORE” (Minase Original Rebuild Equation).

Highly skilled craftsmen spend more than 20 hours working on the polish of a single watch. Indeed, the result is remarkable with the flawless mirror polished surfaces standing in perfect contrast to the satin areas.

The top sapphire crystal is spherical on both of its axis and has an antireflective coating. The polyhedric crown bears the brand’s logo, a drill head that pays homage to the origins of the parent company, Kyowa.

As with every Minase watch, the 7 Windows does not have a dial in the traditional sense. The movement is wrapped inside a steel cover (the top of which acts as the dial plate), on which a separate index ring is then attached. Fitted with the hands and a casing ring, the element is then attached to the case with 4 tiny screws. This is the case in case concept, unique to Minase timepieces.

Minase’s new KT7002 movement is based on the Swiss ETA 2892/A2 ebauches. This high-end execution displays hand-finished surfaces with perlage, blue screws, bridges with diamond polished bevels and a main plate and bridges in black “or”. With 50 hours’ power reserve, Minase’s KT7002 movement offers some 12 more hours of autonomy than the previous movement.

The new Minase rotor is displaying the brand’s drill head logo, while several openings reveal the movement underneath. This component is assembled with MPS lubrication-free bearings. With its ETACHRON regulating system, this is a very high precision execution (21 Jewels, Frequency 28’800 vibrations/hour 4 Hz).

The first series of 7 Windows will be available by the middle of June 2021, but pre-orders are already opened on the Minase website. Customers may therefore reserve their watch and will be granted the priority as soon as the timepieces are available. The 7 Windows will be available on stainless steel bracelet or on leather band, with a black, grey or blue face.

Prices (before tax): CHF 4,300 (leather strap), CHF 5,400 (stainless steel bracelet)