From the visionary minds of Hideo Kojima, the architect of interactive storytelling, and the innovative horological house of Anicorn, a collaboration emerges that transcends the boundaries of gaming and watchmaking, giving birth to a timepiece of profound narrative resonance: the Death Stranding x Anicorn Fragile Express Limited Edition. This is not merely a watch adorned with branding; it is a meticulously crafted instrument that embodies the very essence of the acclaimed video game Death Stranding, capturing the spirit of Fragile’s journey and the poignant themes of connection, resilience, and the fragile nature of hope within a fractured world.
Supervised directly by Hideo Kojima himself and the celebrated art director Yoji Shinkawa, this limited edition timepiece, individually numbered for discerning collectors, stands as a testament to the power of creative collaboration and the seamless fusion of interactive art and horological craftsmanship.
The Fragile Express Time Watch ($740), as it is aptly named, is immediately identifiable by its distinctive colour palette, directly drawn from the visual language of Fragile Express, the vital delivery company within the Death Stranding universe. The watch casing, finished in a deep, resonant black, evokes the company’s robust yet sleek aesthetic, suggesting both power and enigmatic allure.
Both the dial cover and the exhibition caseback bear the unmistakable Fragile Express logo, a subtle yet powerful emblem of Fragile’s unwavering dedication to her mission: delivering hope and reconnecting the scattered fragments of humanity. This understated branding is not merely decorative; it is integral to the design narrative, seamlessly woven into the very fabric of the timepiece, creating a cohesive and immersive experience for the wearer.
Reflecting the duality of Fragile’s character – strength intertwined with vulnerability – the watch offers a considered versatility through its two interchangeable straps. A supple leather strap, embossed with a circular pattern reminiscent of Fragile’s iconic jacket, speaks to a refined aesthetic and a connection to the character’s distinctive attire.
Conversely, a durable fluoroelastomer (FKM) strap, boldly striped in Fragile Express’s signature blue and white colours, injects a sporty, utilitarian sensibility, echoing the practical demands of traversing the treacherous landscapes of Death Stranding. This thoughtful inclusion of two distinct strap options allows the wearer to tailor the timepiece to their individual style and context, further enhancing its versatility and personal resonance.
The packaging of the Fragile Express Time is as thoughtfully conceived as the timepiece itself. Presented in a signature box, each watch is accompanied by an individually numbered metal plate, a tangible marker of its limited edition status and collectability. A dedicated instruction card, specifically tailored to the Fragile Express Time, completes the presentation, underscoring the bespoke nature of this collaborative creation.
Beneath the surface of its visually striking exterior, the Fragile Express Time is powered by the reliable Seiko NH35 automatic movement, a calibre celebrated for its robustness and dependable performance. Operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour with 24 jewels and a 41-hour power reserve, this movement ensures accurate and consistent timekeeping, a crucial attribute for a timepiece that embodies the very essence of time’s precious and precarious nature.
Housed within a 43mm 316L stainless steel case, protected by a sapphire crystal, the Fragile Express Time is built to endure, mirroring the resilience of Fragile herself as she navigates the fractured landscapes of Death Stranding. Water-resistant to 50 meters, it offers everyday practicality alongside its distinctive design and narrative depth.
The Death Stranding x Anicorn Fragile Express Limited Edition is more than just a watch; it is a wearable piece of art, a collector’s item, and a poignant reminder of the themes of hope, connection, and resilience central to Hideo Kojima’s masterpiece. It is a timepiece designed to resonate with fans of Death Stranding, horology enthusiasts, and those who appreciate the profound power of narrative intertwined with meticulous craftsmanship, a testament to the enduring human spirit, delivered with love, in time.
