Naoya Hida Type 1D

Origin

For those great loves of the enduring sophistication of bygone watch designs, few new watch brands have provided as much excitement in recent years as Naoya Hida & Co. Founded in 2018 but debuting in 2019, Naoya Hida established his namesake brand after numerous decades working in the watch industry with some of the biggest names on the commercial side such as Audemars Piguet, Daniel Roth, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Vacheron Constantin, FP Journe, and Breguet. But Hida, despite being a loyal advocate for these significant manufacturers, always held a personal preference that lent more towards the classically proportioned, unassuming creations of the past. Models such as the Patek 96 spoke more to Hida than the larger, more audacious pieces being produced of the time. It's believed that the release of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Soixantième in 1991 marked the first time Hida felt the future of modern watchmaking had the potential to suit his taste.

Naoya Hida & Co.'s vision was simple: to produce Hida's ideal wristwatch using recognised Japanese sensibilities and since its launch, the manufacturer has garnered worldwide respect. Often inspired by vintage Patek and Longines references from the early to mid-20th century, Naoya Hida & Co.'s creations explore the pursuit of perfection through precision, savoir-faire, and a design execution that balances familiarity with individuality; something far easier said than done when it comes to exploring classic tenants. Hida takes a holistic approach to his craft, demonstrating his mastery of not just mid-century design but also balanced proportions and nuances that separate good watches from great ones. The Type 1 was released in 2019 during the launch and is a fine example of the brand's spirit. Hida only makes between 15-20 Type 1 watches a year, proudly recording how many watches he makes yearly on his website, making the opportunity to acquire one a rare occurrence.

The Watch

While Switzerland takes the top spot for watchmaking excellence, there's a solid case to be made that, in recent decades, artisanal Japanese manufacturers have given them a run for their money. Sharing many of the same principles of precision and the pursuit of perfection, the Japanese way of work makes for a perfect pairing with watchmaking, with few mastering both aspects quite like Naoya Hida & Co. As one of Japan's newest and most respected independent watchmakers, it's no wonder their Type 1 is seldom made available on the secondary market, making this occasion all the more special.

The Type 1 was Naoya Hida & Co's first model, but this example, the Type 1D and was first seen in 2022, bringing updates such as a screw caseback, a three-part dial, and an updated small seconds hand design. Measuring a rather perfect 37mm in width, the 904L steel case is CNC machined before being complete with a mirror-polished concave bezel, as lovely wide set lugs, a brushed mid-case and a large crown emphasise the pieces' alertness to vintage design. 

As with many watches, the dial of this 1D draws you in, with manufacture proficiency, artistry, and design strength all colliding to result in a very special appearance. It starts with a solid piece of German silver that is then polished to a mirror finish before being media blasted lightly to create a unique glow. Each of its urushi lacquer-filled engraved Breguet numerals are completed by one person, freehand. Surrounding these mesmerising numerals is a radially brushed minute track, which is applied to the dial separately, along with the subsidiary seconds track at nine. The striking feuille-style hands are mirrored and heat-blued, creating a commanding air of elegance.

Naoya Hida & Co states on their website that approximately 20 pieces of the 1D will be produced between 2024 and 2025, underscoring the rarity of this opportunity to own a piece of present-day Japanese watchmaking brilliance.

The Movement

Powering the 1D is the calibre 3019SS, a Valjoux 7750-derived movement that fills the 37mm case of the piece. The movement boasts 28,800 vph and around 48 hours of autonomy, but the appeal for Hida was down to its running seconds at nine and its robust, solid feel when winding the watch.

How It Wears

Wearability is one of the core codes of Naoya Hida's watches, and the Type 1D at 37mm with a height of just 9.8mm is the embodiment of balance. On the wrist, the depth and character of its dial are identifiable from across the room, and despite its dressy execution, the use of steel and a silver dial gives it a classically versatile edge. 

Condition

This Type 1D dates from 2023 and is presented in brand-new, unworn condition. The watch is sold as a full set and is complete with its original strap, pin buckle, certificate, and box.

If you desire to take a closer look at this precious timepiece, don't hesitate to contact us and make an appointment. We are based in Ghent, Belgium.