Introduced in 2020, this UNDONE watch collection features two watches; the UNDONE Shunga: Edo and the UNDONE Shunga: Meiji. Each design is limited to 300 pieces worldwide and is uniquely serialized. These are a reinterpretation of the erotic watch aesthetic that was indicative of the high society in the 17th century and is still sought after in this present day and age.
The UNDONE Nippon Erotica: Shunga Collection explores both the art of escapism by the high society in the 17th century and the art of Shunga, a type of Japanese erotic art usually executed in the style of ukiyo-e.
The art was seen as a lucky charm to samurai, chonin (subordinate to the warrior class), and housewives; they would all suffer from separation from the opposite sex – arguing that Shunga was not superstitious but libidinous.
The UNDONE Shunga: Edo and the UNDONE Shunga: Meiji feature modern and ancient Shunga paintings, respectively. Without showing more than their upper bodies, the front of the watch leaves enough to your imagination. Turn these pieces around and you will be met with the “practical” part of the watch, the full scene of a pair engaging in coitus with a glimpse of the movement behind the patterned glass caseback.
The dials on both pieces are finished with “當世風俗通” (the Ukiyo custom of pleasureseeking) at 12 o’clock and “春” (Shunga) meaning the picture of spring, a euphemism for sex, on chronograph counter located at 9:00.
The UNDONE Shunga: Edo sports a muted and aged colorway with a beige and silver dial, paired with a vintage grey strap. UNDONE Shunga: Meiji flaunts an industrial modern theme with a navy and silver dial pairing and is complemented with a navy-blue suede strap.
The 316L stainless steel case is 12.7mm thick with a hardened domed K1 crystal and a display caseback. With a case width of 40mm and a lug-to-lug of 47.6mm, it offers versatility to suit both men’s and women’s wrists. Water resistance is guaranteed at 3 ATM/30 meters.
The watch is equipped with the Japanese TMI VK64 Mechanical-Quartz Hybrid Flyback Chronograph movement (supplied by SEIKO Manufacturing (H.K.) Limited), with a sweeping central chronograph seconds. The subdials show a 24-hour display and 60-minute counter.
The strap is immediately comfortable and is fitted with quick release spring bars that conform to the trendy swappable design.
The recommended retail price is USD 339.
[UNDONE Watches are now available at Watches.com]