Toledano & Chan Unveils Oshinobi Diamond Watch

Independent brand Toledano & Chan has introduced the "Oshinobi," a unique timepiece designed for the TimeForArt benefit auction, which conceals its diamond-set dial within a sculptural titanium bracelet. The name "Oshinobi" is derived from the Japanese term for someone moving incognito, reflecting the watch's design philosophy of hidden luxury. This conceptual piece continues Toledano & Chan's exploration of sculptural watchmaking, building on their previous B/1 family of watches. The Oshinobi marks the brand's second contribution to the TimeForArt auction, following their meteorite B/1M in 2024, but this iteration focuses on the theme of concealment, with the watch's most opulent feature deliberately hidden until revealed by the wearer. The entire watch is constructed from Grade 5 titanium, measuring 21.6mm in width, 46.9mm in length, and 10.9mm in thickness. Its faceted case seamlessly integrates into an equally architectural bracelet. A discreet sliding panel, when moved aside, exposes the watch's dial, transforming the outwardly austere exterior into a secret diamond-adorned timepiece. The concave dial is "snow-set" with approximately 387 natural diamonds, totaling around two carats. These diamonds are arranged in varying sizes, intended to mimic the natural crystalline formations observed within a geode when it is opened. This organic and irregular diamond arrangement provides a deliberate contrast to the precise, hard geometry of the sandblasted titanium exterior. The hidden nature of the diamonds imbues the traditionally ostentatious diamond watch with a more private and personal character. The Oshinobi is powered by a manually wound Le Temps Manufacture LTM-2000 calibre movement. The movement is housed within a titanium caseback that features a special engraving commemorating its participation in the TimeForArt event. The Oshinobi prototype will be offered as a singular, unique piece at the upcoming auction. The TimeForArt auction is an annual event that supports charitable causes, with proceeds from the sale of unique timepieces contributing to various philanthropic initiatives. Toledano & Chan, a New York-based independent watch brand, is known for its avant-garde designs and commitment to craftsmanship, often incorporating unconventional materials and architectural forms into their timepieces. The brand's founder, Vincente Toledano, and designer, Chloe Chan, collaborate to create pieces that challenge traditional watchmaking aesthetics. The Oshinobi represents a significant departure from conventional watch designs, prioritizing artistic expression and conceptual depth alongside horological function. The use of Grade 5 titanium offers a balance of strength, lightness, and corrosion resistance, making it a suitable material for both the case and bracelet of a complex, hidden-mechanism watch. The specific dimensions of the watch ensure a substantial presence on the wrist while maintaining a relatively slim profile, contributing to its comfortable wearability despite its intricate construction. The snow-setting technique, which involves placing diamonds closely together without visible metal prongs, creates a continuous surface of sparkle, enhancing the visual impact of the concealed diamonds. The choice of natural diamonds, rather than synthetic ones, further emphasizes the piece's luxurious and exclusive nature. The Le Temps Manufacture LTM-2000 calibre is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality horology, providing reliable and precise timekeeping for this artistic creation. The engraving on the caseback serves as a permanent reminder of the watch's provenance and its contribution to a charitable cause, adding another layer of significance to this one-of-a-kind timepiece.