What is Zaratsu polishing by MINASE | Experience the exterior beauty and mirror finish of Japanese watches at DIVIDO
MINASE DIVIDO: Flawless mirror surfaces and the beauty of Japanese exterior finishing
The appeal of a wristwatch cannot be fully described by its movement alone.
The sharp lines of the case, a single link of the bracelet, the cross-section of the indexes, the thin lines of reflection that run across the surface when it catches the light – it is in the "craftsmanship of the exterior" that the brand's philosophy sometimes reveals itself.
The Japanese watch brand MINASE is a prime example of this.
When you pick up a MINASE watch, the first thing that catches your eye is the clear light residing on the metal surface. It's not a hazy, white reflection, but a sharp, linear light, like that of a blade. With a slight tilt of the case, the boundaries between the surfaces clearly emerge, making the entire watch appear three-dimensional, like a miniature architectural structure.
Supporting this beauty is MINASE's signature "Sallaz polishing," commonly known as Zaratsu polishing.
What is Zaratsu polishing?
Zaratsu polishing is a highly advanced polishing technique used to achieve a flawless mirror finish on metal surfaces. With typical buff polishing, soft cloths or abrasives can slightly round the metal surface, resulting in a softer, sometimes hazy, light reflection.
In contrast, Zaratsu polishing involves pressing metal parts against a flat polishing disc, meticulously shaving away microscopic irregularities on the surface. The goal is not simply to make it shine. It is to precisely define each surface as a distinct plane and create a perfectly smooth, distortion-free base.
It is because this "base" is perfectly prepared that excessive polishing in subsequent finishing steps becomes unnecessary, preventing the case's sharp lines from becoming dull. Corners remain sharp, and surfaces reflect light as true planes. This is the great appeal of Zaratsu polishing.
When you view the watch from an angle, a single line of light smoothly runs along the case side. Shadows fall on the corners of the lugs, and the boundary between the mirror finish and hairline finish sharply transitions. Such beauty is not merely a matter of luxury; it is the result of extremely precise exterior processing.
What makes MINASE's Zaratsu polishing special?
When you hear "Zaratsu polishing," many might think of Grand Seiko. Of course, that is also an indispensable presence when discussing Japanese watch exteriors.
However, MINASE's interesting aspect is that it doesn't use Zaratsu polishing as just "part of a highlight," but integrates it into the overall structural philosophy of the watch.
At MINASE, not only the exterior of the case but also structural parts, indexes, and even the cross-sections of the bracelet are thoroughly hand-polished. Even when looking at the watch not just straight on, but from the side, at an angle, from the back, or through a loupe, fine cross-sections catch the light and sparkle. This is what makes MINASE unique.
In other words, MINASE's Zaratsu polishing is not simply about "beautiful mirror surfaces."
It is a technique for extending aesthetic sensibilities to every single cross-section of the myriad parts that make up the watch.
The extraordinary idea of polishing even cross-sections
A wristwatch case can be considered complete if only the visible parts are beautifully finished. Assuming mass production, spending time on hard-to-see areas and small cross-sections is the exact opposite of efficiency.
However, MINASE finds value precisely in this.
Polishing metal cross-sections by hand is an extremely delicate task. Too much force will distort the shape, round the corners, and erase the carefully designed lines. Conversely, if the finish is inadequate, the light will be dull, and the surfaces will lack tension.
Craftsmen focus their fingertips, gently smoothing the metal surface. Instead of using a machine for a quick finish, they painstakingly create light little by little, assessing the shape, angle, and connection of each part. This accumulation of effort leads to MINASE's unique hard and clear brilliance.
When you look at a MINASE watch, I highly recommend using a loupe.
If you examine not only the large surfaces of the case but also the sides of the lugs, the edges of the indexes, and the cross-sections of the bracelet links, you will notice a density unlike that of ordinary watches.
DIVIDO: The definitive piece to experience MINASE's Zaratsu polishing
The MINASE model we particularly recommend at Contevanou is DIVIDO.
DIVIDO is a model that allows you to experience MINASE's exterior technology in a very clear way. While based on a round shape, it has a completely different three-dimensional structure from typical round cases, with its appearance changing significantly depending on the viewing angle.
Its main features are the distinctive lug structure that seems to divide the case into upper and lower halves, and the case-in-case structure that creates depth. The inner case, which houses the dial and movement, is enveloped by the outer case, creating a unique three-dimensional effect as if the center of the watch is floating.
It is precisely this structure that further accentuates the appeal of Zaratsu polishing.
Planes, slopes, cross-sections, corners.
DIVIDO has an abundance of "surfaces" that catch the light. Mirror surfaces reflect light, hairline finishes create shadows, and edges tighten the contours. With just a slight movement of the watch, the metallic expression changes one after another.
It feels like wearing a small sculpture on your wrist.
The charm of DIVIDO is hard to convey through photos alone.
DIVIDO is a watch whose charm is far more evident in person than in photographs.
Looking at only a frontal image, it might appear to be a simple, well-proportioned round watch. However, once you hold it in your hand, the thickness of the case, the protrusion of the lugs, the way light enters the case sides, and the depth of the dial all come to life at once.
Especially the Zaratsu-polished edges exude a strong presence under store lighting or natural light. It's not a broad, diffused light, but a thin, linear light. These lines make the case shape appear even more three-dimensional.
For those interested in wristwatch exterior finishing, those who have been captivated by Grand Seiko's Zaratsu polishing, and those who want to enjoy a Japanese artisanal approach different from Swiss watches, DIVIDO is highly recommended.
MINASE is both an "industrial product" and a "craft"
The appeal of MINASE lies in the coexistence of precision manufacturing and hand craftsmanship.
The case is precisely designed, and its unique structure is created by combining multiple parts. However, its ultimate beauty is determined by the polishing done by the hands of artisans.
The precision of an industrial product.
The warmth of a craft.
Both exist within the same MINASE watch.
If they aimed for mass production, there would undoubtedly be more efficient manufacturing methods. But MINASE deliberately chooses time-consuming methods. Polishing the case, indexes, bracelet, and even the smallest cross-sections. This inefficiency is precisely what defines MINASE's individuality and captivates watch enthusiasts.
At Contevanou, please examine MINASE with a loupe.
At Contevanou, we strongly encourage you to experience the charm of MINASE firsthand in our store.
MINASE is a watch whose appeal cannot be fully conveyed by a spec sheet alone. It's not just about case diameter, movement, or price; its true essence becomes apparent only when you hold it, change its angle, and observe how the light plays across its surfaces.
DIVIDO, in particular, is highly recommended for appreciating MINASE's Zaratsu polishing and three-dimensional structure.
With a loupe in hand, peer into the cross-sections of the case.
Examine the links of the bracelet.
Look at the edges of the indexes.
There, you will find not just a simple mirror finish, but MINASE's relentless dedication to making every metal surface as beautifully defined as possible.
Contevanou, an authorized dealer of watches and jewelry, exhibits and sells authentic mechanical watches and unique jewelry from around the world, including MINASE.
Please come and experience the exterior beauty of MINASE for yourself at our small atelier in Yoyogi, easily accessible from the Shinjuku, Hatsudai, and Sangubashi areas.
Zaratsu polishing is not a technique to be viewed in photographs.
It is a technique to be experienced with light, by hand, and from various angles.
And the MINASE DIVIDO is the piece that allows you to enjoy that charm in the most enthusiast-pleasing way.
About Contevanou, Authorized Watch and Jewelry Dealer
Contevanou is an authorized watch and jewelry dealer located in Yoyogi, Tokyo.
We showcase a unique selection of mechanical watches and jewelry from around the world, including CZAPEK, TRILOBE, MINASE, Tutima, ORIENT STAR, DENNISON, and NANIS.
In addition to selling watches, we also offer battery replacement, strap replacement, size adjustment,
overhaul services, and consultations for antique watch repairs.
If you are looking for watches or jewelry in the Hatsudai, Sangubashi, or Shinjuku areas, please feel free to visit us.
Contevanou, Authorized Watch and Jewelry Dealer
4-28-7 Nishisando Terrace E1, Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-0053
TEL: 03-3299-8008
Business Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:30 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)