Kurono Tokyo Chronograph 1 MK.2

For those unaware of Kurono Tokyo, it is the sub-brand of renowned independent watchmaker Hajime Asaoka, whom is widely regarded as one of the top watchmakers in the world. His watches are produced in extremely limited numbers, each an individual commission that can take years to deliver. In order to allow some of his magic to be enjoyed by the wider public, he created the Kurono Tokyo brand. These watches are designed by Hajime-san, but utilise components created to his specification from external manufacturers. Each watch then passes through his hands to ensure the quality is worthy of his name.

Though released at very accessible price points, they have amassed a huge following within the independent watch community and each release sells out in under 5 minutes. This has led to extremely high demand on the secondary market, and it seems everyone wants in on the Kurono action.

When you take a closer look at this Chronograph 1 MK.2, it’s not hard to see why. After releasing several time only variants in 37mm, and following it up with their first foray into the world of Chronographs with the original Chronograph 1 and 2, the MK.2 builds on this success with a simpler, calmer aesthetic.

For the MK.2, the case is now constructed in three parts, along with revised lugs shape and position making for a thinner visual profile. Within this new case sits a stunning salmon dial which is gently curved towards its outer edges. Highly polished steel studs are used as hour markers, with an applied art deco arabic 12. The sub-dials are finished with concentric guilloche pattern, and a hand shaped in the fashion of a 'Kyudo' arrow on the sub-seconds dial. The main hands are also gently curved to match the curvature of the dial.

The Chronograph 2 is powered by the flagship column-wheel NE86A chrono movement from Grand Seiko, and the entire watch is assembled in Japan by hand and QC checked under the watchful eye of Hajime Asaoka himself.

This particular piece was delivered in January 2023 and presents in TZ Mint condition. We can't see any marks on the case or buckle, but there may be slight handling marks. Please see images for full condition details.

Comes with outer box, inner box, Warranty card dated January 2023, cleaning cloth, technical drawing and Watch Vault cleaning cloth

If you can’t tell, we’re huge fans of Kurono here at Watch Vault. Don't miss your chance to pick up this as-new example.

Brand: Kurono Tokyo

Style: Chronograph

Model #: Chronograph 1 Mk.2

Case Material: Steel

Case details: 38mm

Movement: Grand Seiko NE86A column wheel chronograph

Dial: Salmon

Paraphernalia: Outer box, inner box, Warranty card dated January 2023, cleaning cloth, technical drawing and Watch Vault cleaning cloth

TZ Grading: Mint

Watch Vault utilises the TZ grading system. Please see here for details.