Masters of Horological Craftsmanship Brings Independent Watchmaking to Tokyo
AHCI Hosts Landmark Event in Tokyo's Shibuya District
The Académie Horlogère des Créateurs Indépendants (AHCI) successfully hosted Masters of Horological Craftsmanship from January 9-12, 2026, marking a historic moment for independent watchmaking in Asia. The event took place at SAI inside RAYARD MIYASHITA PARK in Shibuya, Tokyo.
According to www.ahci.ch, this exceptional gathering brought together independent master watchmakers alongside Japan's Contemporary Master Craftsmen, creating a unique cross-cultural horological experience.
Featured Watchmakers and Their Achievements
| Watchmaker | Affiliation | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Bernhard LEDERER | LEDERER | AHCI Member / GPHG Winner |
| Raúl PAGÈS | Pagès | AHCI Member / Louis Vuitton Watch Prize Winner |
| Takuma KAWAUCHIYA | Grand Seiko | Contemporary Master Craftsman / GPHG Winner (Kodo Constant-force Tourbillon, 2022) |
| Hisashi OGAWA | Credor | Engraving Meister |
| Hajime ASAOKA | Hajime Asaoka Tokyo Japan | Contemporary Master Craftsman / AHCI Member / Louis Vuitton Watch Prize Jury |
| Jiro KATAYAMA | Ōtsuka Lōtec | Contemporary Master Craftsman / GPHG Winner |
Bridging Swiss and Japanese Watchmaking Traditions
The event represented a significant convergence of Swiss and Japanese horological expertise. AHCI members from Europe joined forces with Japan's most celebrated independent watchmakers, creating a rare opportunity for cultural exchange and technical collaboration.
Notable highlights included:
- Live demonstrations of hand-engraving techniques by Hisashi OGAWA
- Showcase of the revolutionary Grand Seiko "Kodo" Constant-force Tourbillon
- Exhibition of Hajime ASAOKA's hand-built movements
- Interactive sessions with GPHG-winning watchmakers
Venue and Event Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Masters of Horological Craftsmanship |
| Dates | January 9-12, 2026 |
| Venue | SAI (inside RAYARD MIYASHITA PARK) |
| Address | 3F, MIYASHITA PARK SOUTH, 6-20-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo |
| Hours | Friday-Monday: 11:00-19:00 (final day until 18:00) |
The Significance of Japanese Independent Watchmaking
Japan has a rich heritage of precision craftsmanship, and independent Japanese watchmakers like Hajime ASAOKA and Jiro KATAYAMA have earned international recognition for their exceptional work. Their participation in AHCI events highlights the global nature of independent horology.
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Audience and Participation
The event welcomed watch enthusiasts, professionals from Japan's manufacturing and creative industries, and the next generation of aspiring watchmakers. This diverse audience reflected AHCI's mission to promote independent watchmaking across all levels of interest.
Key participant categories included:
- Private collectors and watch enthusiasts
- Industry professionals and retailers
- Aspiring watchmakers and students
- Media representatives and journalists
Impact on the Independent Watchmaking Movement
The success of Masters of Horological Craftsmanship in Tokyo demonstrates the growing global appetite for independent watchmaking. By bringing AHCI events to Asia, the organization is expanding its reach and introducing new audiences to the art of handcrafted timepieces.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What made this event unique compared to other watch shows?
A: Masters of Horological Craftsmanship was the first AHCI event to bring together both Swiss and Japanese independent watchmakers in Tokyo, creating a rare cross-cultural horological experience.
Q: Were any new watches unveiled at the event?
A: Yes, several participating watchmakers showcased new creations and prototypes, including pieces from the Grand Seiko and Hajime ASAOKA collections.
Q: Will AHCI hold more events in Asia?
A: According to AHCI, the organization plans to continue expanding its presence in Asian markets, building on the success of the Tokyo event.
Looking Forward
Masters of Horological Craftsmanship has set a new precedent for international watchmaking events. As AHCI continues to expand its global footprint, collectors and enthusiasts can look forward to more opportunities to experience independent watchmaking excellence firsthand.
According to www.ahci.ch