Ōtsuka Lōtec Introduces Industrial No.9 Watch Featuring a Sleek Rectangular Case

The watch employs bespoke ruby and the smallest ball bearings globally from MinebeaMitsumi.

Ōtsuka Lōtec

In light of the recent GPHG Petite Aiguille nomination for his No. 5 KAI, independent Japanese watchmaker Jiro Katayama presents his latest creation: the Ōtsuka Lōtec No. 9. Encased in a polished 44mm x 30mm rectangular stainless steel case, the right side of the dial showcases stacked hour and minute discs, illuminated by an integrated luminous block for visibility in low light. A subtly curved solid-steel caseback and 26mm-lug calfskin strap provide ergonomic comfort.

Ōtsuka Lōtec

At the commencement of each hour, three mechanisms activate in a synchronized manner: the jumping-hour disc progresses instantaneously; the retrograde minute disc, propelled by a central hairspring, retracts to zero; and a hammer strikes a gong fashioned like a pipeline, producing a clear chime. An offset tourbillon operates the bottom dial, while a slender indicator positioned slightly right of center monitors the approximately 40-hour power reserve.

Ōtsuka Lōtec

The complications are driven by the in-house Cal. SSGT, a manual-winding caliber comprising 278 components (30 jewels and five ball bearings) operating at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour. Custom 2.5 mm ruby bearings and the world's smallest 1.5 mm steel bearings, provided by MinebeaMitsumi, facilitate the hour-disc shaft and hammer pivot for little friction.

Ōtsuka Lōtec

“I conceived the notion of creating a wristwatch that, akin to an induction electric meter, would allow one to observe various mechanical components arranged within a transparent casing and witness their movement,” elucidates Katayama. “With No.9, I aimed to design a timepiece in which every moving component beneath the sapphire crystal evokes the essence of industrial machinery — its textures, vibrations, and sounds.”

The No. 9 is water-resistant to 3 ATM, priced at ¥17,600,000 JPY (tax included; approximately $118,890 USD), proudly manufactured in Japan, accompanied with a one-year warranty, and available for purchase on Ōtsuka Lōtec’s official website.