今年我們邀請到《Hodinkee Japan》編輯長 關口優(Yu Sekiguchi),為10x10 Awards選出他的年度十大錶款。在2019年加入Hearst Digital Japan,隨後成為《Hodinkee Japan》編輯長的關口優,對手錶有著濃厚的興趣與熱情,關於業界趨勢他也有著敏銳的觀察與獨到的見解。來看看關口優對於今年的鐘錶界有什麼看法、對於明年又有哪些預測呢?
<趨勢分析>
1. 2025年的年度關鍵字是什麼?今年可歸納出哪些趨勢?
What’s the keyword of the year for 2025? What major trends can we identify this year?
談到明顯的趨勢,是錶徑縮小(尺寸變小)以及正裝錶的回歸。不過,今年更令人印象深刻的,是設計多樣性帶來的一項現象「跳時錶(guichet watch)」的增加,包括經典的跳時款式,如卡地亞的Tank à Guichets與蕭邦Quattro,以及LOUIS VUITTON的Tambour Convergence。我認為這些腕錶在當下這個時代反而帶來了一種「新鮮感」,形成了一種有趣的矛盾。
Speaking of clear trends, one could cite the reduction in size (smaller diameters) and the revival of the dress watch. However, what was particularly striking, showing the diversity in design, was the increase in guichet (window) watches. These include classical jumping hour pieces like the CARTIER Tank à Guichets and the CHOPARD Quattro, as well as newly conceived watches such as the LOUIS VUITTON Tambour Convergence. I believe these are, paradoxically, giving a fresh impression in the current era.
2. 今年哪個品牌的表現,你認為是被低估的?
Which brand do you think has been underrated this year?
Brands like GIRARD-PERREGAUX, GLASHÜTTE ORIGINAL, SINN, and FREDERIQUE CONSTANT, among others. In recent years, there has been a significant concentration of buyers toward a few major brands such as PATEK PHILIPPE and ROLEX, while independent brands have increased their presence elsewhere. In a sense, this means many brands can be considered underrated, but those with authentic roots, a continuing production of classic watches, and a commitment to tradition and inherited technology are particularly worth paying attention to.
3. 對於明年的錶界有哪些預測或期待?最⼤的挑戰會是什麼?
What are your predictions or expectations for the watch industry in 2026? What do you think will be the biggest challenge?
Due in part to tariff issues in the U.S., the direction of the market is at its most uncertain point in a decade. We may see the total value of the secondary market rise until the end of the year in the form of last-minute demand, and that trend could carry over into the beginning of next year. However, there are rumors of a significant price hike for Rolex (especially in Japan). Although this depends on how well the secondary market supports the current value, there is a risk that prices may finally exceed the reach of general consumers. If that happens, there will be a demand for more appealing watches under $5,000. Furthermore, this shift needs to be led by major brands, not just by a handful of independents as is the case now. This includes brands like LONGINES, SEIKO, CITIZEN, and NOMOS, as well as the development of value-proposition entry models for brands with higher price points.
4. 今年有哪個品牌是你很想選它,卻找不到欄目可放進來的遺珠之憾?
Is there any particular timepiece that you personally liked—or perhaps felt it was a pity—not to include on the final list?
The VACHERON CONSTANTIN Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Retrograde Date Openface, a model commemorating the brand's 270th anniversary, along with the LOUIS VUITTON Tambour Convergence and the ŌTSUKA LŌTEC No. 5 Kai.
The VACHERON CONSTANTIN combines multiple classic complications in a luxurious manner; the LV offers a new interpretation of disc display; and the ŌTSUKA LŌTEC provides an innovative wandering hour mechanism. Each of these watches transcends being just a rare mechanism, instead solidifying into an iconic design that places them outside existing frameworks in watchmaking.