Biomimicry

Biomimicry refers to applying what we learn from mechanisms in the natural world to technological development. Literally translated, it means 'imitation of life.' If you look around, there are already many products based on biomimicry, such as Velcro, which was inspired by burdock burrs, and yogurt lids that repel dirt like lotus leaves. The idea of incorporating biomimicry into watches sparked the search for new ideas, thinking that it could create new value never seen before.

First, we brainstormed and narrowed down the functions necessary for a watch. We researched biomimicry technologies that could be used from the perspectives of comfort, resistance to dirt, durability, beauty, and safety. As we exchanged ideas, we decided that for this model, we wanted to achieve 'comfortable wear,' so we asked biologist Shinichi Fukuoka for his cooperation with biomimicry ideas.

Sense of Wonder

In the natural world, design always surpasses function

by one step.

At first, I wanted to incorporate biomimicry from a functional aspect, such as comfort, but there was a phrase that caught my attention during my conversations with Dr. Fukuoka. It was about how, in the natural world, design always surpasses function by one step. As a prominent example, he especially emphasized the unique colors of living things.

The fascinating thing about nature is that sometimes the design seems almost excessive—too beautiful, too vivid. In the natural world, design always surpasses function by one step. Excessive colors and shapes have meaning for life, and nature contains a diversity of designs that may seem wasteful from a human perspective. That is what is called a sense of wonder.

Inspired by Dr. Fukuoka's words, I wanted to make the beautiful dial expression a key point of the model. As a means of expression, we decided to use 'structural color.' At the same time, Fujifilm was developing structural color using inkjet printers, and with their cooperation, we began considering dial designs. When I first saw a sample of structural color, I was amazed by its brilliance, as if a butterfly were fluttering on it. I was also worried about how it could be incorporated into a watch, but it resulted in a dial with a very deep and new coloration.

For the dial, I wanted to delicately and mysteriously express the four elements—earth, water, fire, and wind—that have been considered the building blocks of the earth since ancient times.

The charm of this watch lies in how it offers a different expression every time you look at it. Structural color is not produced by pigments; rather, it is realized through ink technology that forms microstructures to generate the effect. The beautiful hues created by the interference of light are mysterious, and I also feel it has a natural affinity with Eco-Drive, which requires light to operate.

The knit band’s fabric is also designed with a porous structure inspired by biomimicry. It is highly breathable, can be washed by hand, and is much more comfortable than a regular leather strap. The knit uses Shima Seiki's WHOLEGARMENT technology. It was my first time working with knit materials, and I participated from the selection of the types of twisted yarns. The strength and thickness of the fabric change depending on which yarns are blended. We asked the knit manufacturer to make many prototypes, repeatedly verifying the balance of strength, thickness, and elasticity to find the optimal one.

To highlight the individuality of the dial’s structural color, which expresses the organic beauty and mystery of nature, the case was kept simple in design. The new tactile knit band brings a pleasantly relaxed feel. I’d be delighted if this watch could become something that makes you sense nature in various moments.

Biologist Dr. Shinichi Fukuoka and CITIZEN L brand advisor Yoshiko Ikoma gave us many hints for creation. I was always amazed by their passionate perspectives on life and art, and this project made me feel that there is so much more we can do beyond watches.