The world of Japanese watchmaking is often defined by a relentless pursuit of perfection, a concept known in Japan as Kiwame. Among the rising stars in the microbrand scene is Kiwame Tokyo, a brand that has quickly garnered attention for its commitment to “honest watchmaking.” Their latest release, the Iwao, is a testament to this philosophy, offering a refined interpretation of the classic field watch that bridges the gap between rugged utility and mid-century elegance.
The Kiwame Tokyo Iwao is defined by its striking dial textures and architectural case. This model is designed for those who appreciate a classic, airy presence on the wrist without sacrificing the durability required for daily wear. Whether you choose the white or black variant, the design philosophy remains rooted in the natural world.
The centerpiece of the Iwao is its two-layer dial construction. The center features a deeply grained, stamped texture intended to evoke the raw presence of natural stone or rock.
Surrounding this “rough” center is a satin-finished hour chapter ring, providing a “calm” contrast that enhances legibility.
Kiwame Tokyo utilizes a 38mm stainless steel case that hits the “sweet spot” for most collectors. With a thickness of only 9.5mm and a lug-to-lug distance of 46mm, the watch should sit flat and comfortably on the wrist.
The Iwao collection is offered in two distinct colorways, each providing a different personality for the wearer. Both versions capture the spirit of Japanese nature and traditional materials.
Kiwame Tokyo Iwao Sumi
Named after traditional Japanese ink, the Sumi variant is the black dial version of the Iwao. It offers a more contemporary, stealthy character.
Kiwame Tokyo Iwao Ginkai
The Ginkai variant is the “white” or silver-ash model. The name suggests a silver sea or a light-reflecting rock surface. It features a bright, airy aesthetic that makes the stone-like texture pop.
Under the hood beats the Miyota 9039, a high-beat (28,800 vph) automatic movement known for its slim profile and reliability. This Japanese-made caliber offers a 42-hour power reserve and a hacking seconds feature. Kiwame Tokyo regulates these movements in-house to ensure an accuracy of -10/+15 seconds per day, providing peace of mind for the daily wearer.
Despite its slender 9.5mm profile, the Kiwame Tokyo Iwao boasts a 100-meter water resistance rating. This is achieved through a screwed-down solid caseback and a precisely engineered push/pull crown system. Protected by a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, the Iwao is as durable as it is beautiful.
Pricing, Availability & Where to Get One
In line with the brand’s philosophy of “honest watchmaking,” the Kiwame Tokyo Iwao (both Ginkai and Sumi variants) is priced at $690 USD (excluding taxes). This price point is remarkably competitive, considering the regulated movement, complex dial textures, and high level of case finishing that typically command much higher prices in the luxury market.
Case Diameter: 38mm
Case Thickness: 9.5mm
Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel
Water Resistance: 10 ATM (100 Meters)
Caliber: Miyota 9039 (Automatic high-beat)
Crystal: Sapphire with inner anti-reflective coating
Function: Time only (Hours, Minutes, Seconds)
The Kiwame Tokyo Iwao is a statement on the value of intentional design. By balancing the “roughness” of stone-inspired textures with the “calmness” of a Calatrava-inspired case, Kiwame Tokyo has created a timepiece that is equally at home in a boardroom or on a weekend trail. Whether you prefer the bright presence of the Ginkai white or the deep tones of the Sumi black, the Iwao stands as a pinnacle of affordable Japanese craftsmanship.
