The Minase × Fratello M-3 "Shiro" is the third watch in our exploration of the M3,a model previously only available in Japan.  Together we chose three symbolic but also perfectly complementary colors: white, red, and blue. Apart from picking very specific tones of the three colors, we also looked for different structures to deepen the color effect.

White, red and, blue

The color white, or “shiro” in Japanese, is considered a sacred color of the gods. It symbolizes spiritual and physical purity. Since ancient times, the Emperor of Japan has worn white clothes for the main Shinto rituals. As you can see, the dial is not just white; it shows a delicate embossed pattern finished with traditional Japanese lacquer. The result is a dynamic silvery white dial that reflects the light and creates a subtle depth effect.

As you can see, the dial is not just white; it shows a delicate embossed pattern finished with traditional Japanese lacquer. The result is a dynamic silvery-white dial that reflects the light and creates a subtle depth effect.

Land of the Rising Sun

The tip of the central second's hand is red. In Japanese culture, red symbolizes good luck and happiness. The crimson red we chose is the exact color in the flag of Japan, called " Hinomaru,” which means “circle of the sun.”

The blue strap pays homage to Japanese denim. The craftsmanship that goes into the different Japanese denim brands is comparable to watchmaking. And just like a mechanical watch, quality denim lasts a lifetime. Denim also has a specific quality: it becomes better looking and cooler as time passes. The right jeans are a very personal statement of style that can define a person, just like the carefully crafted watch on the wrist.

We didn’t want to transform our love for denim into a literal one. That’s why we didn’t opt for a blue jeans strap but a Denim Blue buffalo leather strap made in Belgium. The strap is supple, looks superb with its curved end following the case shape of the M-3, and adds a luxurious touch to the versatile watch.

Classically proportioned

The Fratello × Minase M-3 “Shiro” Limited Edition comes in a steel case with a diameter of 39mm, a height of 10,5mm, and the lug-to-lug length is 46mm. It’s incredibly well-proportioned and wears well on all wrist shapes and sizes. The case is water-resistant to 100 meters and features behind the closed, engraved Fratello case back. Inside is a Minase-modified Sellita SW200 movement with the date removed, thus eliminating the “ghost date” position on the crown. 

A celebration of Japanese watchmaking

The watch will be available for a price of just €2,470 excluding VAT. For non-EU collectors, VAT is automatically removed at checkout. With the Minase × Fratello M-3 "Shiro", we wanted to open up the world of exclusive Japanese watchmaking to a broader audience. The company philosophy is to create unique Japanese-made watches that pay tribute to the culture and traditions of Japan. 

Sales are open for one week — No limited quantities

Sales remain open for one week until 4pm CEST on Tuesday, September 24th, 2024. That means you have some time to think about it and make up your mind. There is, of course, a limit to how quickly Minase can produce these watches. Minase produces less than 500 timepieces a year and also takes its craft very seriously. As such, the first 100 pieces will be delivered in December 2024, and every subsequent batch will be delivered in three-month increments after that. 

VAT/taxes are adjusted to your locale at checkout once you’ve added your shipping information. If your shipping address is located outside of the EU, VAT is removed, and the price is €2,470 but you may be liable for import fees at delivery. Please check with your local customs office for more information.

Specifications

Dial: "Nori" green
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Dimensions: 39mm × 46mm × 10.5mm (including crystal)
Lug Width: 20mm
Crystal: Sapphire
Case Back: Stainless steel
Movement: Sellita SW200-1 (modified to remove the date)
Power Reserve: ~42 hours
Water Resistance: 10 ATM (100 meters)
Strap: Denim Blue buffalo leather strap, tapered 20/16 with Minase-signed buckle
Functions: Hours, minutes, and seconds
Price: €2,470 ex VAT (taxes automatically adjusted at checkout)

*Please note: Our Refund Policy applies to all pre-orders. Should you change your mind after placing your order, Fratello will honor any cancellations and offer a full refund where the request is made before the pre-order window closes. Once the pre-order window is closed, all orders are final, and we are unable to cancel your order and offer a refund. All pre-ordered watches are bespoke and made-to-order, so the regular 14-day return window does not apply.