Minase’s first North American pop-ups took place at four New York venues in 2026, introducing the Japanese watchmaker to local collectors outside a traditional boutique launch. The events mark a deliberate effort to build relationships through watch communities; Minase says Miami is next, but it has not published a date or venue.
What is Minase watches?
Minase is a Japanese watch brand whose manufacturing roots lie in cutting tools and watch cases. Its official timeline traces the business to a cutting-tool company founded in 1963. It began making watch cases in 1973, established the subsidiary that became its Minase factory in 1988, began developing its own brand in 2001, and released its first MINASE-branded watch, the GREADY (M1), in 2005. Minase’s official history presents case-making and polishing expertise as a foundation of the brand.
The company describes its watches as intricately constructed and hand-crafted. It says some components take a skilled artisan 90 minutes to polish; that is Minase’s statement, not an independently timed measurement. Its current collection overview includes DIVIDO, the WINDOWS families, URUGA, MASTER CRAFT, and JAPAN ART COLLECTION. Models and specifications can change, so consult the official collection overview and individual product pages for current details.
What happened on Minase’s American tour?
Minase’s September 21, 2026 account calls the New York gatherings its first North American pop-up events. They took place at four venues: Tokyo Record Bar, The Yacht Club, The Jeffrey, and LORE. At the fourth gathering, members of Gotham Watch Club met MINASE President Tsuyoshi Suzuki over watches and sake from Akita. Minase says the varied settings were chosen to reach watch communities directly rather than launch through a select shop or conventional watch boutique. The company’s event report does not say that every model was shown at every venue.
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A preceding Minase feature says the idea began when a North American contact identified as Jack approached Suzuki. The account describes online conversations followed by a meeting in Japan, after which the New York event was agreed. It does not provide Jack’s full name or establish an independently verified commercial agreement. Minase’s account of how the plan began is the source for that history.
What watches and ideas did attendees encounter?
Minase says conversations included the DIVIDO’s case form, which the brand connects to an origami crane, and the FIVE WINDOWS Yusai dial, featuring work by contemporary artist Towa Takaya. These examples gave the gatherings specific design and craft topics rather than making them only general brand introductions. They are details from the company’s event report, not a claim that these watches appeared at all four venues.
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Suzuki characterized the reception this way: “The watch enthusiasts in New York really respected the fact that MINASE pays attention to every detail of its watchmaking.” This is his interpretation, as quoted in Minase’s report, rather than an independently measured finding.
What does Minase’s New York pop-up mean for the brand?
The tour suggests Minase is testing a relationship-first introduction to North America: meeting collectors in local settings and explaining design and construction directly, before relying on a conventional boutique launch. The company reports engaged discussion of watchmaking and design, but its public account does not quantify attendance, sales, conversion, or changes in brand awareness. Four venues demonstrate the reach of the event format, not its commercial result.
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Minase says a next launch in Miami is being planned. Its event report gives no date or venue, so this is a stated intention rather than a scheduled event readers can plan around.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Where can I see Minase watches in the U.S.?
For a visit or product inquiry, the official retailer directory lists MINASE North America / Tempus Takumi at 119 W 57th Street in New York and Arizona Fine Time in Scottsdale. A separate distribution page identifies Tempus Takumi / Empire Time Company as the North America sales office. Check Minase’s U.S. retailer and distribution information, then contact the retailer to confirm appointment access and stock before traveling; directory listings and inventory can change.
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- 【Creative Anime-Inspired Design】 This men's sports watch stands out with its unique anime-inspired design, featuring a striking sketch-style dial that blends minimalist black and white tones with creative artwork.The dial’s minimalist aesthetic ensures that the watch remains sleek and sophisticated, making it perfect for both young men and students.
- 【Sketch-Style Dial】The dial’s is the centerpiece of this watch, offering a creative, hand-drawn design that mimics the artistic sketches found in anime. With every glance, the watch draws attention to its innovative design, appealing to those who appreciate artistic expression and anime culture.
- 【High-Quality and Durable】Powered by a reliable quartz movement, this watch guarantees precise and consistent timekeeping, keeping you on track throughout the day. The sturdy ABS case provides excellent protection against wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting durability. Whether you're heading to class, the gym, or a night out, this watch is built to handle all your activities without compromising on style.
- 【Comfortable and Adjustable Fit】Designed for those with an active lifestyle, this sports watch features a robust structure and is made to last. The lightweight yet durable material makes it comfortable to wear throughout the day, and the water-resistant feature ensures that it can withstand splashes and sweat.
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That route is different from an event: retailer visits can support individual product questions, while pop-ups place watches in a collector-community setting. Miami remains a future plan without a published date or venue, so it is not yet a confirmed place to see the watches.
One retailer separately describes a Gotham Watch Club × MINASE J3 as a 25-piece limited edition, with shipping planned for Holiday 2026. This is a distinct collaboration, not an attendance or sales figure for the New York tour; availability and timing can change. See the retailer’s J3 listing for its current status.
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