G-SHOCK becomes a tool for communication between parents and children.

Do you usually wear a watch?

estuaryI put it on when I'm busy at work and pressed for time. For example, before an exhibition or when I have several appointments in a day. Wrapping a watch around my wrist somehow turns me on. It makes me feel like I'm ready to get going. I feel like, "Okay, I'm going to do it!

What do you look for in a watch?

estuaryI like both digital and analog, but when it comes to design, I prefer simple things. Rather than adding to it, I prefer to eliminate unnecessary things. As for functions, to be honest, I don't ask for too much.

If it knows the time, is legible at night, and has a stopwatch, I think that's enough. With the availability of smartphones, it seems that the only thing I really want from a watch is simplicity.

When do you use a stopwatch?

estuaryI jog sometimes (laughs). I use a stopwatch to measure my time then. Running with my phone is kind of a hindrance.

What kind of watches do you own?

estuaryActually, I only own G-Shock watches. Many of the models are collaborations with artists who embody street culture, such as Futura and STASH. My son, who is now in his third year of elementary school, is into G-Shock, and he takes care of my watches and takes care of me (laughs). He manages my watches and takes care of them (laughs). Sometimes my son asks me to look up a watch and buy it for him. It's a tool for communication between parent and child.

Have you always worn a "G-SHOCK"?

estuaryI remember the first time I put on a square watch: was it a square type called "DW-5600"? That was the first model I ever wore. I got it as a gift when I entered junior high school, and I've been using this brand of watch ever since. I think G-Shock watches are a gateway to manhood.

I remember myself being attracted to the tough image of G-Shock watches from TV commercials and begging my parents for them (laughs). (Laughs.) My son is into G-Shock now because he saw military men and other people who symbolized coolness to children wearing them, and he fell in love with G-Shock in the same way that a child would fall in love with a watch wearing a military uniform.

Have your criteria for choosing things changed as you have gotten older?

estuaryI am always on the lookout for new things, and I continue to experiment with my choices. However, I am now able to look at things more flatly than in the past. One of the best examples of this may be jackets.

I never used to wear suits, but when I try them on now, I find that they are surprisingly comfortable and tidy. Perhaps it is because I have come to wear such items that I have started to choose things accordingly. However, I try not to lose my sense of self.

I am sure that the item of a jacket has never been associated with your image until now.

estuaryI used to think that I shouldn't touch them, but now I think they are easy to match with T-shirts and look appropriate for my age (laughs). (Laughs) I have proposed this as a style for my own brand, but I also feel that my idea of a set-up is somewhat new.

G-STEEL" is a watch that can be used safely as an adult.

We asked you to wear the "G-STEEL," which features a metallic design, with such a set-up. What were your honest impressions when you put it on your wrist?

estuaryAt first glance, my impression was that it looked very mature. Rather than casual wear, I think this is the kind of item you would want to pick up when you want to look sharp in a jacket style, like I did today.

Analog and metallic gives it a bit of a diver's watch feel. I think it is a watch that can be used safely as an adult. Another point I like is the radio-controlled solar power. It's nice to know that I don't have to replace the batteries, and I can't overlook the fact that it doesn't lose track of time.

I see.

estuaryI think G-SHOCK watches are universal and can be worn anywhere without concern. While there are tough items, G-Shock also releases watches with a more mature design, and customers can choose freely between them, which is why I think G-Shock has been able to maintain its strong position for more than 30 years.

What kind of situations, other than wearing a jacket, do you think "G-STEEL" would be useful in?

estuaryI've been getting more opportunities to DJ lately, and this would be good for that. I often have to keep an eye on the time when I'm playing, and this would be good for that because the light isn't too bright.

It will also be useful when driving a car or motorcycle. The large face of the watch is highly visible, so it is easy to see the time at a glance. It's not like you can fiddle with your cell phone while driving.

Finally, how did "G-STEEL" look to you overall?

estuaryAs I mentioned earlier, I think watches can be worn with peace of mind. I think watches play a role in expressing a person's status, and wearing a luxury watch in the midst of such common sense can give a somewhat awkward impression.

Certainly, it could give the impression of being taller.

estuaryG-STEEL" is a good balance of price, not too cheap and not too expensive. As for the price, it is neither too cheap nor too expensive, and has a good balance. G-SHOCK itself does not have a negative image, and I think that choosing this model was based on a careful consideration of its use and style.

I myself am not that serious (laughs), but I think "G-STEEL" is a watch for people who are down-to-earth and live their lives straight and true.