Founded in the Odaka district of Minamisoma, Fukushima Watch Company was established to revitalize Japanese mechanical watchmaking through deep local storytelling and distinct brand concepts.
Operating under the brand’s heritage-focused mirco label, the mirco TYPE-02 BB (~¥275,000 / $1,600) explores an intriguing horological counterfactual: what if Japanese watchmaking hadn’t pivoted entirely to quartz after 1969, but had instead continued advancing high-grade mechanical chronographs throughout the 1970s?
The result is an aggressive, vintage-inspired racing chronograph that combines nostalgic retro geometry with sharp modern finishing.
Seiko NE86 Column-Wheel Architecture
Housed in a sculpted 42mm 316L stainless steel case measuring 16.5mm thick, the TYPE-02 BB features a deep black-on-black monochromatic aesthetic.
The dark dial layout prioritises pure legibility, featuring a perimeter tachymeter scale, dual chronograph registers, and an unobtrusive date window. Highly polished case chamfers contrast against satin-brushed flanks, while an anti-reflective sapphire crystal protects the vintage-styled display.
Beating inside the case is the sophisticated Japanese Seiko NE86 automatic movement. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) with 34 jewels and a 45-hour power reserve, this high-spec calibre incorporates both a column wheel and a vertical clutch system.
This premium chronograph mechanism ensures smooth pusher engagement and eliminates initial hand-jump when starting the timing seconds hand.
Rated to 100 metres (10 ATM) of water resistance and delivered on an oil-finished genuine leather strap, the mirco TYPE-02 BB represents a compelling piece of independent Japanese horology that bridges historical imagination with genuine mechanical prowess.
