Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. The Fratello x Minase M-3 Shiro Edition
A new, classic edition done by our Dutch friends, together with Japanese watchmaker Minase.
A fairly niche brand from Japan, Minase has recently gained popularity with its nicely designed watches and complex cases, built around concepts of multiple windows. Minase doesn’t focus on watchmaking but mostly on external parts. Yet, there is a watch that feels far more simple and elegant, the M-3, with its classic case construction – a model previously only available in Japan but brought to the world by our friends over at Fratello. The Dutch magazine now presents the third version of the Minase M-3, the new Shiro Edition, following the Very Peri and Nori editions.
Minase is a microbrand from Japan specialising in complex cases with superlative handmade finishings and Sallaz (mirror) polishing. Minase, a spinoff brand from the Kyowa Co., started life in 1963, making precision drills for metal machining. Producing watch cases and bracelets, Minase became a watch brand in 2005. Named after the workshop’s location in the Yuzawa Mountains in the prefecture of Akita, Minase produces less than 500 watches per year and only recently started to expand internationally. You might know the brand from its complex watches, such as the 7 Windows, with multiple sapphire crystal openings, but also the Divido, Horizon and Uruga.
The Minase M-3, which was until Fratello’s interest in this watch a so-called JDM model, is far more classic, with an undeniable elegance and restrained proportions. It is built around a tonneau-shaped case measuring 39mm in diameter and only 10.6mm in thickness. There’s a subtle vintage vibe, but not overly pronounced. As you’d expect from Minase, the finishing of the steel case is impeccable, with Sallaz (a.k.a Zaratsu) polished surfaces and satin-finished accents. The 100m water-resistance is reassuring too.
Just like the Very Peri and Nori editions, the highlight of this new Minase M-3 Shiro is the dial, but here treated in a more discreet and classic style. Shiro, which means white in Japanese, is considered a sacred colour – it symbolizes spiritual and physical purity. But the Fratello M-3 Shiro edition isn’t plain white but shows a delicate embossed pattern finished with traditional Japanese lacquer. This dynamic silvery-white textured dial has depth and reflections, specifically since it’s paired with faceted hands and applied hour markers. The only touch of colour is the crimson red on the second hand, the exact colour found in the flag of Japan (Hinomaru).
Inside the case, which has a closed steel back, is a robust automatic Sellita SW200-1 modified as a no-date version. Beating at a 4hz frequency, it stores 42h of power reserve. The Minase M-3 Shiro Edition is worn on a blue strap that pays homage to Japanese denim (and some know that Japan pays as much attention to detail in watches and jeans).
Available for pre-order for one week only – from September 17th, 2024 at 4PM to September 24th, 2024 at 4PM – exclusively from the Fratello Shop, the Fratello x Minase M-3 Shiro Edition will be priced at EUR 2,470 (excl. taxes). For more details, please consult the Fratello website.
