Incorporating Tradition into Technology: A Look Behind the Conceptualisation of 47Ronin

47Ronin recently made a trip to Hong Kong (yes, again!). This time round, 47Ronin sat down with Flora from Unwire for an interview and conducted a mini work shop on watch strap making. To start off, I shared with Fiona step by step, the process for the materialisation of the watch strap. Depending on the wrist size of customers, I first measured the length and width necessary from Full Grain leather.

47Ronin Watch Straps

 Making sure that the leather cut out is not slanted

47Ronin Watch Straps

Not as easy as it seems! You will need to exert some strength for a clean and neat cut47Ronin Watch Straps
Next, repeat the same process with your chosen kimono fabric – the possibilities are endless!

47Ronin Watch Straps

Selecting a section from the huge fabric
47Ronin Watch Straps
Fiona has opted for an opulent design with eye-catching floral details and gold accent
47Ronin Watch Straps
There is also a selection of simpler designs for those who prefer a more basic finish

 

For someone who might be unfamiliar with Japanese culture, kimonos may seem ubiquitous, especially the designs. However, because there is so little room to showcase the textile, I tend to go for ones with outstanding and colourful designs to feature in our watch straps. It is also important that 47Ronin features unique materials, hence I will curate textiles which are from different regions, prefectures and from varying independent artists.

47Ronin Watch Straps

After that, using glue to affix the pieces together! It is important to use just the right amount, as too much will cause the excess to ooze out, resulting in an untidy finish.
47Ronin Watch Straps
Sanding the edges of the strap
47Ronin Watch Straps
Almost there!
47Ronin Watch Straps
Time to make markings for the stitches – remember, more haste less speed!
47Ronin Watch Straps
Sewing is not new for Fiona, so thankfully this was a breeze!

 

In retrospect, having consistent and neat stiches was really difficult when I just started 47Ronin. It was after countless practice and mistakes that enabled me to hone my craft and put out bespoke products that I am immensely proud of.

47Ronin Watch Straps

Finishing touches – punch out holes and attach buckle, and you’re done!
47Ronin Watch Straps
Sat down afterwards and talked about 47Ronin’s brand philosophy
47Ronin Watch Straps
Marriage between technology and tradition
47Ronin Watch Straps
Collaboration piece with Watanabe Kobo from Japan
47Ronin Watch Straps
Not forgetting local artists – enlisted the help of Hypebaysg, added the rich colours from The Great Wave off Kanagawa, a popular woodblock print (ukiyo-e) from the late Edo period

 

So, what is 47Ronin’s modus operandi? In the midst of modernity and globalization, traditional culture has, often inevitably and unfortunately, became obsolete. What a waste, I thought. Which is why I started 47Ronin: to make use of my platform to promote the unknown and often overlooked beauty of traditional Japanese culture to the public.

Technology and tradition need not be opposing spectrums; their fusion may produce unexpected results and surprising harmony.  

47Ronin would like to extend our sincere gratitude towards Unwire Hong Kong for the engaging interview. Check out the article here and the video here!

 

All photos courtesy of Unwire.

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