Westward Bound: A New Sanctuary for the Studio

In the life of an artist, environment is everything. The light that hits the bench, the sound of the room, the stillness of the air—these are tools as vital as my tweezers or files.

This September, Moreno Watch Studio made a significant physical and symbolic move. I have left the frenetic energy of Central Tokyo to establish my new studio in the quieter, greener expanses of West Tokyo.

A New Status

This move follows a personal milestone. As of May 2025, I am officially recognized as an "Artist" residing in Japan.

To be recognized as a creator contributing to the artistic landscape of Japan is a profound honor. It is a validation of the path I have chosen since arriving here. With this recognition came the responsibility of finding a proper home for both myself and the studio. It was a search that took a lot of time, resources, and considerable energy.

Refocusing the Bench

Naturally, this period of transition required me to step away from the bench. As I settle into this new rhythm, I have made the decision to place the Hatsushizuku project on hold.

A watch cannot be rushed. The Hatsushizuku deserves my full, undivided attention, which was impossible to give during the move. For now, my focus returns to refining the Kaminari and exploring its iterations. The Kaminari is the foundation of this studio, and I am dedicated to pushing its potential further before opening a new chapter.

Finding "Ma"

Moving to West Tokyo was a search for Ma—for the necessary space to create. Here, the pace is different. The air is clearer and is more silent.

As I unpack my tools and set up my bench in this new light, the disruptions of the transition have settled. I am no longer just a visitor trying to find his place in Tokyo; I am an artist who has built a home here.