Kurono Tokyo – Calligra “Stark Black” (Limited Edition) – 2024
If you know Hajime Asaoka's work, you know this isn't just another microbrand. The Kurono Tokyo 34mm 'Calligra' Stark Black is a masterclass in restraint—a watch that sold out in hours upon its February 2024 release, leaving countless collectors empty-handed.
This is independent Japanese watchmaking at its most refined: Breguet-style numerals executed with calligraphic precision, a railway minute track that nods to vintage dress watches, and a stepped bezel that gives the 34mm case architectural depth without bulk.
Dial & Aesthetics
The dial is the hero here. Stark Black lacquer provides the canvas for applied Breguet numerals that catch light with three-dimensional presence, paired with heat-blued hands that shift from deep navy to black depending on the angle. It's a study in legibility and elegance—the kind of dial you actually want to read, not just admire.
At 9.6mm thick with a 41mm lug-to-lug, this wears like a vintage treasure on modern wrists: compact, balanced, utterly comfortable.
Movement & Philosophy
Inside beats the Miyota 90S5 automatic—not haute horology, but a workhorse movement chosen deliberately for reliability and serviceability. Asaoka's philosophy with Kurono has always been about dial craft and case finishing at accessible prices, and the forged 316L stainless steel case with its meticulous polishing backs that up.
This is a watch made by a master watchmaker who knows exactly where to spend the budget: on what you see and feel every day.
Rarity, Market & Condition
As part of the Special Projects series, the Calligra was produced in strictly limited numbers (only 188 were made) and sold exclusively through Kurono Tokyo's website. It's now completely discontinued and nearly impossible to find unworn.
The secondary market has been sparse, and when pieces do surface, they move quickly—collectors understand that Asaoka's independent vision and the scarcity of these releases make them far more compelling than the typical microbrand fare.
This example is brand new, unworn, complete set—exactly as it left Tokyo.
Original retail was USD 1,320; at that price it was a steal. At USD 2,000, you're paying a premium for rarity and the reality that Kurono drops are effectively lottery systems for those quick enough to navigate the website crashes. If you missed the release, this is your second chance. If you don't know Kurono yet, this is an excellent introduction to what happens when a true independent watchmaker applies craft to accessible horology.
Key Details
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Model: Kurono Tokyo 34mm 'Calligra' Special Project
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Variant: Stark Black (Limited Edition of 188)
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Case: Forged 316L Stainless Steel, 34mm x 9.6mm thick, 41mm lug-to-lug
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Bezel: Stepped/ridged design, polished finish
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Dial: Stark Black lacquer with applied Breguet-style numerals, railway minute track
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Hands: Heat-blued stainless steel with luminous coating
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Movement: Miyota 90S5, automatic
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Water Resistance: 50 meters (5 ATM)
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Strap: Black calf leather with stainless steel pin buckle
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Year: 2024
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Condition: Brand new, unworn (NOS - New Old Stock)
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Set: Complete set - full packaging, warranty card, documentation
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Original Retail Price: USD 1,320
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Our Price: USD 2,000
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Availability: Sold out and discontinued - extremely rare to find unworn
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Location: Dubai, UAE
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