Japanese watch brand Minase introduced a new version of the 7 Windows design for 2021, available for pre-order on their website.

The Minase 7 Windows is based on the company’s original 5 Windows wristwatch, with two additional sapphire crystals, at 12 and 6 o’clock. This design was first introduced with a power reserve indicator in 2018, although this version has a new movement and a date wheel in place of a power reserve indicator.

Presented in a rectangular-shaped case, which is smaller on the top and widens towards the caseback, there are a total of seven sapphire crystals, five mounted vertically around the case flanks (two are needed for the crown side). This unique way of displaying the time allows light to enter the dial from all sides, except the bottom. Although, the movement is visible through a sapphire crystal if you flip over the watch.

Each watch is manufactured in Japan, with 20-hours of dedicated work to brush and polish a single watch, resulting in flawless mirror-polished surfaces (Zaratsu) contrasted by matte accents.

According to Minase, “the 7 Windows does not have a dial in the traditional sense. The movement is wrapped inside a steel cover (the top of which acts as the dial plate), on which a separate index ring is then attached. Fitted with the hands and a casing ring, the element is then attached to the case with 4 tiny screws. This is the case-in-case concept, unique to Minase timepieces.”

For this new date version of the Windows 7, Minase used Swiss ETA 2892/A2 blanks and completed the component finishing and assembly in their workshops in Japan. The bridges and mainplate feature perlage that’s created with a hand-operated machine as well as machine-made diamond-cut and polished bevels. The screws have been blued, the rotor uses MPS lubrication-free bearings, and been partially skeletonized and emblazoned with the company’s drill head emblem, which is also found on the winding crown. This 4Hz, 21-jewel, automatic movement has a maximum power reserve of 50-hours.

The Minase 7 Windows is available for pre-order now and will begin shipping June 2021. You have a choice of a black, gray, or blue dial, and leather strap for $4,300, or a stainless steel bracelet for $5,400.