Minase 7 Windows Steel 2.0

In 2019, I reviewed the purple diameter Minase Divido. The watch is different from what I’ve been wearing. The insane level of case finish blew me away. The bracelet’s construction was just as impressive with its intricate links. So perhaps it would be appropriate to cover the brand’s obviously different shape take, 7 Windows Steel 2.0 update, with my evolved appreciation for vintage rectangular watches.

Yes, the original David surprised me as some other watches have. If it’s not a slightly larger case size, I can almost guarantee it’s in my collection. Minase creates very boldly different watches compared to other brands, and was impressed by how the company is sticking to designs that showcase the history of metal finishes. After all, Minase has the foundation for creating watch components and tools. Today’s seven Windows Steel 2.0 models show this craftsmanship and a new dial.

Updated Minase 7 Windows Steel 2.0

It’s been a while since I’ve covered seven Windows models, so it’s worth putting the spec into practice. The 316L stainless steel case is 38mm in diameter, 47mm in length and 13mm in thickness. As an aside, 18K yellow or rose gold is available for special requests. In addition to the complex, compound-family reared sapphire crystals on top of the clock, five sapphire crystals live on the sides of the case. They provide a clear view or “window” for the automatic movement. It’s an avant-garde design within a traditional rectangular case, and somehow, it works! Additionally, in light of all crystals, the watch maintains a water resistance assessment of 50m. The large and boldly crafted crown perfectly complements the design.

New dials are big news

Previously, Minase 7 Windows featured a steel dial with PVD coating. The new 2.0 model follows the footsteps of Divido using an electroformed copper dial. However, in this application, Minase uses a hammer technique to create Yukihira (snowflake-like) patterns that shine in the light. Additionally, the dial is lacquered with blue, green, white or ice blue (I want to see purple!) and is set in a steel frame. This frame contains an index, showing screws in each corner and securing the assembly to the case.

Minase creates a thin, elegant needle shape while applying the Super Luminova to the finely carved center time and minute hands. Perhaps the most dramatic feature of the dial is the date wheel, except for the new surface. It is located within a lower dial layer and displays an interesting black-and-white pattern. It’s incongruous yet oddly fun!

Swiss movement in Japan’s case

As always, Minase uses Swiss movements on its watch. The brand appears to have driven out an unknown amount of ETA 2892-A2 caliber from the squirrel. Some express disappointment at the use of relatively common movements with the seven windows, but Minase has been on a long way to distinguish it from the ready-made ebauche. Each 2892 is hand-finished with a parage on the main plate, a diamond-style angular, blue screws and a black coating. Minase also installs custom vibration rotors and uses ceramic bearings. All of these features are displayed via a sapphire-equipped display case. Performance, as expected, has a power reserve of about 50 hours and a frequency of 28,800Vph.

Seven windows have bracelets or straps

Minase offers seven Windows Steel 2.0 in an in-house made leather strap or stainless steel bracelet. I won’t make you a child. The price is 6,250 euros and the bracelet model is expensive. The strap model costs significantly less than 4,900 euros. However, if you have a case where you spend an additional 1,350 euros on a bracelet, one of Minases is the best example. Saraz’s polishing and construction is no exception to anyone, and helps with the comfort of these bracelets. Even the push button clasp is slim and holds your wrist well. As an aside, I don’t usually look forward to dismantling the bracelet, but I do this with Divido and the accuracy of each component sticks to me forever.

Final Thoughts

There’s no doubt that Minase Watch is expensive. However, they live in a unique position in the market, which is quite exceptional given their long production execution. Of course, it helps that new seven window-like clocks are very rare. After all, Minase produces less than 500 watches a year. I’m on these and the dial fits more with the company’s style. No, Minase Watch isn’t a typical choice, but it’s definitely cool.

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