Casio
The MR-G
Hammertone
G-Shock.
is the samurai sword, or katana, a formidable weapon, it’s an art form
While the use of steel and titanium in the MR-Gs is an obvious
unto itself, with swords handed down from generation to generation.
connection to the Japanese katana, less so is the hand polishing, which
During the American occupation led by General MacArthur, innumerable
allows for a mirror finish and razor sharp bezels. And then there’s the
swords were destroyed thanks to MacArthur’s belief that its symbolism
overall design of the MR-G itself, which employs a much more angular
led to martial thoughts and actions. Many were dumped unceremoni-
language than its resin stable mates. (Fun fact: Moriai-san’s personal
ously in Tokyo Bay until his aide, a keen observer and fan of Japanese
watch is an MR-G.)
culture, convinced the general of their artistic value, and the practice
was ended.
Fortunately, during this time of drastic change, many families
Metalwork
A quick cab ride across town took us to a well-known store that special-
took to burying their ancestor’s swords, thus preserving many of
izes in Japanese art and heritage. On display were numerous examples
these treasures.
of the metalworking art referred to as Tsuiki, which Moriai-san ingeniously incorporated into the design of a limited edition MR-G.
This leads us back to this singular shop.
Tsuiki is a generations-old art that involves hand hammering and
The swords inside ranged in age from 700 years old to present day,
tempering of steel to provide it with a unique look and texture. With the
and many were priceless by any meaningful standard. So, how does a
MR-G Hammertone, G-Shock and Moriai-san enlisted the help of a tradi-
centuries-old sword relate to a G-Shock? For Moriai, the answer exists
tional Tsuiki metalworker to create 300 watches with hand-embellished
on many levels. From the fine craftsmanship seen in the forging of the
bezels and bracelets. The artist had never worked with titanium before
blades or the intricate design of the hilts, to the preciseness of their
and actually had to create special shock-absorbing hammers to allow
cutting edges, their analog can be seen in the latest MR-Gs, a line of
him to work with the metal without thoroughly numbing his hands. G-
watches that move G-Shock confidently into the realm of luxury goods.
Shock hammers, if you will.
80 | AboutTime Magazine