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.
Making sure that the leather cut out is not slanted
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.
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.
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.