31.3.09

Steampunked Up

I can't pinpoint when exactly I developed a soft corner for steampunk (the why, however, is easier to figure out: apart from the obvious aesthetic merits, it was introduced to me by someone I'm really fond of). At a time when anything futuristic was generally imagined as clean lines and pale colours in the vein of the average modern Apple product, I rather liked the throwback feel to it and the slightly rougher, less sanitised look all the gadgets had. It was just a pity I had no idea where to get to see things looking like that in real life, and even less of a chance to acquire them.
Which is why it came as quite the surprise when, on flipping through old articles on Pingmag (my favourite online magazine, and now a victim of the recession- RIP), I found a feature on Haruo Suekichi, real-life maker of steampunk-style timepieces, whose watches are not only beautiful and unique, but innovative too- I bet not too many other watchmakers make watches that don't need two hands to strap on. And even if I can't buy them, I do appreciate the fact that they fulfil the one condition any watch MUST fulfil in order to be loved by me- large faces! It's a wonderful lot to lech at, even if they're not sold outside Japan..pics are above and below.



pics from pingmag.jp and chiefmag.com

18 comments:

woenvu said...

the one he's modeling looks really cool. like a bunsen burner; might accidently singe his privates when zipping up after taking a leak though. hm.

Vanessa said...

I've developed a fascination for steampunk stuff lately. I think it all started when I bought an antiquey-looking necklace from Etsy that was made with watch parts that it all started. It's one of my favorite pieces now.

Vera said...

Simply FANTASTIC!!

yumiko said...

im not a very watch-person but these are beautiful. they look nice and chunky, which i always like when it comes to accesories.

Fashion Cappuccino said...

Those watches are amzing and definitely one of a kind! I would love to own one!

Anonymous said...

art and design. Great pics. Love the second.

Liberty London Girl said...

This is fabulous! LLGxx

susie_bubble said...

Those pictures are quite amazing....oh and boo to spam!

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Bianca said...

these watches are fantastic
xx

the crumpet girls
http://crumpetsandt.blospot.com

A.n.E said...

are they not GENIUS!!! yes , i have soft spots too for all things steampunk and the steampunk old world/ futuristic charm.

Jenny said...

Try etsy.com! It's all indie lovely DIY things and TONS of steampunk wonderful trinkety bits.

Anonymous said...

hello... hapi blogging... have a nice day! just visiting here....

disktop said...

Have you read "the difference engine" by William Gibson? Its as steampunk as a book can get. I really like it - got my copy in blossom. :)

Daisy said...

How unique and and interesting, I like this post a lot !

Charlotte said...

Little pieces of art! He is so talented.

Unknown said...

AMAZING ART!!!! wow.... those are so cool!!!

Claudette said...

Wow, they're worth taking an imprompty trip to Japan for!

http://newgateknocker.blogspot.com/

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