Founded by Takano Kotaro in Nagoya in 1899, Takano initially specialized in clockmaking. It wasn't until 1957 that the Takano brand began producing wristwatches with outsourced movements where in early 1959, Takano launched its first in-house movement, debuting a collection of ultra-thin watches under the name “Chateau”.

However, the company faced challenges from competitors, compounded by the devastation of an unexpected super typhoon in September 1959. This led to its acquisition by the larger Ricoh company in August 1962. Today, while still under Ricoh, Watch Precision Co., owned by Hajime Asaoka, obtained a license to use the brand name Takano in 2024.

The present Chateau Nouvel Chronometer is both thin and remarkably accurate. It is also notable for being the first Japanese watch to receive chronometer certification from the Besançon Observatory in France in the 21st century.The steel case is mirror-polished using the “Zaratsu” technique, resulting in distortion-free surfaces.

The regular production pieces are available with either black or white dials; however, a magical collaboration between Hajime Asaoka and Phillips Watches has made the present piece unique. Solely created for the TOKI: Watch Auction, this timepiece showcases a mesmerizing traditional Japanese color known as “TOKI-iro” (the color of the Japanese crested ibis), crafted by Master Asaoka himself. This auspicious bird, with feathers reminiscent of a rising sun, symbolizes happiness and good fortune in Japanese culture, making it the perfect choice for the brand’s auction debut.

Please note that proceeds of the sale of the present watch will be given by the Consignor to Wajima Lacquerware Industry.
本時計の収益金は、出品者より輪島塗業界復興を支援するため、全落札金額を寄付されます。