As part of my lifelong journey in diving into the world of horology, I have been given the wonderful opportunity to spend some time with the Hitori Ryukyu Diver Tropic Green. This is a narrative, a companion marking the chapters of my days here at Gnomon. Every moment dyed with captivating green hues, keeping the green trend going in 2024, following up from the Ocean 39 “Melon”. By the end of this journey, I will be certified to have a green thumb.
Let’s delve into the essence of Hitori or “ひとり”, and its Ryukyu Diver collection. Hitori, translating to “one person” in Japanese, stands out as an independent brand, deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, draws inspiration from traditional modus operandi. “ひとり” translating to “one person” mirrors the brand’s commitment to individuality and independence. The influence is palpable in every meticulously crafted mechanical marvel they present. The philosophy of Hitori in watchmaking extends beyond the mere ticking of seconds; it’s a holistic experience steeped in the core values of Japanese craftsmanship.
What sets Hitori apart, at least to me, is not just the precision in their mechanical wonders but also the aesthetic finesse inspired by the Japanese way of life. Hitori doesn’t merely create watches; it curates an experience for a community that appreciates the fusion of tradition and innovation. The Ryukyu Diver series, inspired by the subtropical islands of Southern Okinawa, unfolds nostalgic timepieces that redefine classic style with an unmistakable Asian flair. Inspired by iconic spots for scuba divers and sport fishing, the islands in Southern Okinawa are filled with stunning coral reefs, vivid hard corals, rock, sandy bottom filled with limestones, which are home to many beautiful sea creatures.
Worn on my wrist, the Hitori Ryukyu Diver Tropic Green defied expectations, marrying both quality and affordability in a way that resonates with the core of Japanese craftsmanship many of us are familiar with. The super-wearable 316L stainless steel case, measuring 40.7mm in diameter, 46.5mm lug-to-lug and 11.7mm thick, exudes a vintage charm within a robust construction. The matching green ceramic bezel, playfully dubbed the “Hulk” colorway, immediately catches the eye. The absence of a crown guard gives it a distinctive “Big Crown” look, reminiscent of premium models and bearing the engraved signature that signifies its authenticity.
From the moment the watch landed in my hands, it accompanied me to various engagements, becoming an integral part of my daily activities. Whether it was my weekly swim, gazing at the Singapore skyline, or late-night suppers with friends, the watch was on my wrist, reflecting the natural droplets on its surface during the swim, shimmering in the dimly lit supper setting. The blue luminous SuperLuminova, my preferred color, made time reading effortless during the night.
During a late night supper with my friends, I subconsciously ordered our local sugar cane juice, maybe due to the watch’s resemblance in which I love a lot, to quench my thirst. Sharing this particular Hitori watch with a fellow enthusiast, Isaac, during our late-night supper even sparked a conversation about the brand’s history and the meticulous finishes on the watch. Fresh out of the pool, Isaac rightly pointed out the importance of drying out the watch, given the NATO-style strap’s potential to trap water and moisture. Valuable lessons from a friend who shares the passion for dive watches.
My personal wearing experience of the Ryukyu Diver is an absolute delight. The classic Hitori Nylon Green Woven NATO-style strap offers unmatched comfort. A departure from the usual steel and rubber straps in my collection, this breathable material complements the green aesthetic beautifully. Absolutely love the shine the metallic materials give to the watch. The weight feels lighter than that of my Samurai, making it seamless yet not taking anything away from its presence. > Jun Kai: My moments with the watch is a testament of how a watch can serve as a conversation piece. It is more than a watch; it is a story waiting to be shared. The striking green inevitably prompts the question, “Tell me about your watch?”. Acting as a bridge to share experiences, it becomes a catalyst for connection. Overall, the Hitori Ryukyu Diver Tropic Green is an iconic watch that I will remember especially when I look at sugar cane.
In summary, the Hitori Ryukyu Diver Tropic Green has etched itself into my daily life in a way that surpasses the ordinary. A cultural aura emanates from its design, a true representation of Japanese craftsmanship that speaks volumes with every tick. It’s not just a watch; it’s a companion that marks the passage of time in a distinctly Japanese way, creating moments that linger in the heart, and for me, a certified green thumb by the end of the week.
