In a remarkable collaboration, Ressence and Japanese artisan Terumasa Ikeda have brought forth the TYPE 9 IKE watch, a horological masterpiece where the passage of time is depicted through the fluid, planetary-like movement of its dials. Utilizing Ressence's advanced ROCS system, this distinctive timepiece eschews traditional hands in favor of rotating discs, creating a captivating visual narrative that mirrors the celestial mechanics of our solar system. Ikeda's artistic vision profoundly influences this design, transforming the watch's internal mechanisms into an integral part of its aesthetic expression.
Ikeda's artistry is further accentuated by his masterful application of traditional Japanese techniques: urushi lacquer and raden. Urushi, a time-honored coating method, provides a deep, lustrous finish, while raden involves meticulously embedding pieces of iridescent shell into the watch's surface. For the TYPE 9 IKE, wafer-thin shell fragments are carefully molded and affixed to the curved dial. This intricate process requires softening the naturally brittle raden pieces to allow them to conform gracefully to the watch's contours, thus preventing any damage to the delicate material.
The TYPE 9 IKE draws inspiration from the heliocentric model, with its moving discs symbolizing planets in orbit, reflecting humanity's historical quest for knowledge through observation. This philosophical foundation underpins the watch's innovative display, which presents time through a constantly shifting landscape rather than static indicators. The titanium case, finished with a DLC coating, provides a sophisticated backdrop for the intricate lacquer and shell work, creating a harmonious blend of technology and artistry. Limited to a mere eight pieces, each TYPE 9 IKE is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and visionary design, available from select Ressence retailers starting February 26th, 2026.
The TYPE 9 IKE timepiece stands as a beacon of innovation, seamlessly blending the precision of contemporary horology with the rich heritage of Japanese artistry. It encourages us to look beyond conventional interpretations of time, appreciating the beauty and complexity that arise when ancient techniques meet modern ingenuity, reminding us that true creativity lies in harmonizing diverse elements to forge something truly extraordinary.