Otsuka Lotec Updates Its No.5 with This KAI Edition Featuring a Wandering Hours Module

At first look, chances are you’ll assume the above watch is from the Swiss watchmaker Urwerk, recognized for its sci-fi-infused timepieces with satellite tv for pc hours shows and retrograde minute tracks. Nevertheless, the creation in query is from none aside from Otsuka Lotec, an impartial Japanese firm round since 2008 however not as well-known exterior of its dwelling nation. 

Based by self-taught watch designer Jiro Katayama, Otsuka Lotec has now added a brand new No.5 mannequin to its catalog, following the No.6 and No.7.5. Confused? Let’s have a look…

The Identical in Title Solely

The new No.5 KAI would possibly share a reputation with its progenitor, launched over a decade in the past, however is totally different in design and performance, amongst different issues. That includes an identical design ethos, the previous No.5 (sans KAI) was a regulator watch with rotating hour and minute discs on the highest and backside of the dial, respectively.

As for the 2025 refresh of the No.5, Otsuka Lotec sports activities a wandering hours show, which means it options three cruciforms, every with 4 numerals on the stems. The present hour strikes alongside a 120-degree arched minute monitor on the precise facet of the dial, from 00 to 60. And because the hour involves an in depth (e.g., 5:59), the next hour (on this case, 6) begins the cycle up prime. Additionally, the underside of the dial contains a ticking seconds disc. 

Skinny to Win

Measuring 40.5mm throughout, the precise industrial-styled chrome steel case is a measly 7.6mm in thickness. Nevertheless, with the protruding field sapphire crystal, the general thickness will get as much as 12.2mm. All these watches are typically fairly thick, however Otsuka Lotec wished theirs to have extra sensible wearability and legibility, therefore the thinness and field crystal. It had assist from a pair of customized MinebeaMitsumi ball bearings, together with one which’s the smallest on the earth. You may see them on the dial itself. Powering this in-house wandering hours module is a Miyota 90S5 automated motion providing 40 hours of energy reserve, stored behind the closed metal caseback. Lastly, the watch is adorned with a black leather strap.

Spec Sheet

Pricing & Availability

Supplied by way of lottery in March, the No.5 KAI will likely be restricted to an unspecified version dimension and priced at JPY 748,000 (~$4,811). Head over to Otsuka Lotec’s web site to be taught extra.

Otsuka Lotec No.5 KAI

Otsuka Lotec evolves its previous No.5 with this new model that includes a wandering hours complication.