Seven years ago, I trekked from one continent to another when I moved from my homeland, Japan, to my adopted home, Switzerland. I boxed up a lot of my things and packed others to carry with me, but of course you always carry many things in your heart and mind. Among these “possessions” was my passion for singing, which began at a very early age during a family karaoke outing.
When I got to Switzerland, I sought out — as expatriates tend to do — a bit of my native culture in my new country. I discovered a Japanese choir that meets periodically, rehearsing and performing at various regional venues. I joined it, and learned that its repertoire consisted primarily of traditional Japanese songs. I was therefore a little perplexed when our choirmaster suggested that we rehearse Italian opera.
My confusion was short lived; I immediately fell in love with opera and its dramatic explosion of passion in contrast with the controlled compositions of traditional Japanese music. I can see the facial expressions of the audience when our Japanese songs give way to opera. The unexpected combination, while initially shocking or puzzling, soon provokes great joy.
In many ways, watchmaking is like both forms of music: controlled and exact yet full of passion and dynamism. It’s art that touches the heart.
Favorite Movie: Porco Rosso (1992), an animated Japanese adventure film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki.
Quote From a Book or Movie That Represents Me: “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”
Favorite Musician: Jamiroquai.
Tops On My To-Do List: Eat and drink everything that is good on earth.
I Am: Logical, stubborn, flexible, clever and curious.
If I Weren’t a Watchmaker, I Would Be: A gourmand.
In 30 Years I'll be...: Doing something I can’t imagine now, I hope.
Favorite GP Watch: Girard-Perregaux 1966 Small Seconds and date.
