“J” COLLECTION
MASTER CRAFT J3
A Refined Minimalist Timepiece Embodying the MINASE Philosophy
MINASE, the Japanese watch brand manufactured and distributed by Kyowa Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Ugo Town, Akita Prefecture, Japan; President: Tsuyoshi Suzuki), announces the launch of the new Master Craft J Collection. Its first model, the J3, will be released in Japan on July 24, 2026, through the official MINASE online store and authorized retailers, followed by a phased rollout to international markets beginning in August 2026.
The J3 is a reinterpretation of the celebrated M3, one of MINASE’s iconic models, reimagined through a contemporary design approach and new engineering philosophy. Designed as a simpler expression of MINASE craftsmanship, the J3 preserves the brand’s signature architectural case construction, extensive Sallaz hand-polishing, and carefully finished dial while presenting them in a slimmer and more understated form.
Through the J3, MINASE hopes to introduce a wider audience to the values behind the MINASE philosophy—an approach to watchmaking that places equal importance on precision, hand-finishing, and beauty in the smallest details.
The roots of this design trace back to the Master Craft M Series, regarded as the origin of MINASE watches. Developed by KYOWA, a precision cutting-tool manufacturer, the M Series was created by applying the company’s manufacturing expertise to watchmaking without compromise.
Following the M1 and M2, the M3 was introduced under the concept of “ultimate simplicity.”
In the years that followed, MINASE introduced the structurally distinctive HiZ Series, steadily gaining international recognition. At the same time, collectors and watch journalists continued to praise the M3 for expressing the spirit of MINASE through its restrained and minimalist design.
Responding to this appreciation, MINASE revived the M3 in 2018 after more than a decade. The J3 has now been developed based on that revived model, interpreted through a fresh perspective for today.
A Simpler Expression of the MINASE Philosophy
The Master Craft J3 embodies the craftsmanship philosophy at the heart of MINASE.
One of its defining elements is Sallaz polishing, a meticulous hand-finishing technique performed by skilled artisans. Known for producing distortion-free mirror surfaces and sharply defined edges, Sallaz polishing has become one of the defining characteristics of MINASE watches.
On the J3, Sallaz polishing is applied not only to the bezel, but also to the case sides and the angled surfaces of the case back. This extensive finishing process creates crisp transitions between mirror-polished and hairline-brushed surfaces, emphasizing the architectural form of the case while reflecting light beautifully from every angle.
Despite its minimalist three-hand layout, the watch offers a distinctive visual presence with understated elegance.
Attention to details that cannot be achieved through mass production remains central to the MINASE philosophy.
Reinterpreting the Legendary M3 Through a More Elegant and Refined Size
DIAL
The Delicate Texture of the “Light Sand Dial”
The J3 is available in three dial colors: White, Beige, and Gray.
Each dial features MINASE’s signature “Light Sand Dial,” developed to create a delicate texture with subtle depth and a soft interaction with light. The finely textured surface gently captures and reflects light, revealing different expressions depending on the viewing angle and surrounding environment.
Sharp-cut applied hour markers create a refined contrast against the textured dial surface, adding subtle dimensionality to the minimalist design.
For enhanced visibility in low-light conditions, both the applied hour markers and the hour and minute hands are treated with blue luminous material, providing excellent legibility while maintaining the clean aesthetic of the dial during daytime.
STRAP OPTIONS
Create a Timepiece That Reflects Your Style.
Available options include:
- 4 embossed calf leather straps
- 3 crocodile-pattern calf leather straps
- 2 rubber straps
- Classic stainless steel bracelet
Lineup
Strap Model
We offer three standard models. They feature a one-touch interchangeable system, allowing you to switch to a bracelet or rubber strap.
J3-NBKNBK-SSD
J3-NGYNBE-SSD
Classical Bracelet Model
J3-M01NBK-SSB
J3-M01NWH-SSB
J3-M01NBE-SSB
MASTER CRAFT J3
Case Diameter: 37.4 mm
Case Thickness: 9.9 mm
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Crystal: Sapphire Crystal with double-sided anti-reflective coating
Strap: Calf Leather / Rubber (18 mm width)
Bracelet: Stainless Steel (18 mm width)
Movement: MIYOTA 90S5 Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz)
Power Reserve: Approximately 42 hours
Accuracy: -10 to +30 seconds per day
Water Resistance: 5 ATM
- Calf Leather Strap Model: USD 2,050
- Rubber Strap Model: USD 2,080
- Stainless Steel Bracelet Model: USD 2,500
* The photo shows the standard model (white dial / blue embossed cowhide strap).
* Please note that straps and bracelets designed for the M3 are not compatible with the J3.
Availability
Retail Availability
