Naoya Hida & Co., a renowned independent Japanese watchmaker, is set to unveil its eagerly anticipated 2026 collection, a showcase of meticulous artistry and horological innovation. This year's release includes seven entirely new designs and three updated models from previous collections. The spotlight shines on the NH TYPE7A, the brand's first chronograph, powered by a vintage Valjoux 23 movement, and the elegantly compact NH TYPE8A, drawing inspiration from classic Calatrava designs. The collection further features the refined NH TYPE1E, a refreshed version of the brand's initial production model; the NH TYPE2C-2, distinguished by its novel porcelain dial; the exquisitely hand-engraved NH TYPE3B-4 in 18k yellow gold, adorned with Art Nouveau motifs; and the subtly enhanced rectangular NH TYPE5B and NH TYPE5B-1 models. These timepieces collectively represent Naoya Hida's unwavering dedication to classic aesthetics, precise craftsmanship, and the distinctive Japanese touch that defines their creations.

The 2026 collection reaffirms Japan's growing prominence in high-end independent watchmaking, with Naoya Hida contributing significantly to this vibrant scene. Each watch in the collection reflects a harmonious blend of historical inspirations and contemporary technical excellence. The brand continues to attract discerning collectors with its limited production numbers and unique design philosophy. From the intricate details of the vintage movement in the chronograph to the delicate hand-painted indexes on the porcelain dial, every element is thoughtfully executed. The commitment to crafting distinctive timepieces that resonate with both heritage and innovation positions Naoya Hida as a leading light in the world of haute horlogerie, ensuring their ongoing appeal and influence in the global watch market.

Introducing the NH TYPE7A Chronograph and NH TYPE8A: A Fusion of Vintage Charm and Modern Craftsmanship

The 2026 collection from Naoya Hida & Co. proudly introduces two significant new models: the NH TYPE7A chronograph and the NH TYPE8A. The NH TYPE7A marks the brand's inaugural foray into chronographs, a venture long contemplated by founder Naoya Hida. Inspired by revered classics like the Patek reference 1463 'Tasti Tondi', this 36mm 904L steel timepiece embodies a timeless elegance, with a slender profile of just 11.7mm. Its design is characterized by a polished concave bezel and engine-turned pushers, reminiscent of vintage styles. The dial, crafted from German silver, boasts laser-engraved logos and tracks, complemented by hand-engraved Breguet numerals filled with synthetic Japanese lacquer. The time-telling hands are made of solid yellow gold, while the chronograph hands are distinguished by heat-blued steel. Powering this exquisite creation are meticulously restored vintage Valjoux 236 hand-wound chronograph movements, featuring a classic column-wheel and horizontal clutch architecture. The production of the NH TYPE7A is highly exclusive, limited to just 10 pieces between 2026 and 2027, priced at JPY 5,300,000 or USD 38,300, and paired with a refined Granite calf leather strap by Jean Rousseau.

Complementing the chronograph is the NH TYPE8A, another entirely new addition to the 2026 collection, which pays homage to historical watch designs. This model is deeply inspired by the original Calatrava 96 and Breguet 3210, notably in its proportions. Measuring a compact 31mm in diameter and 8.9mm in thickness, the NH TYPE8A is designed for those who appreciate classic, smaller timepieces. Its creation stemmed from Hida’s development of a smaller movement for the Type5A, which enabled the small seconds to be positioned away from the dial's center. Crafted from 904L steel with a screwed back, the watch features an engraved German silver dial with Breguet numerals and blued steel hands, all executed with Naoya Hida's signature precision. The watch's sapphire crystal on the reverse side showcases the new calibre 2326SS, a 23.5mm hand-wound movement with a 3Hz beat rate and a 38-hour power reserve, sharing structural similarities with the Peseux 7001 architecture. Limited to 20 pieces for 2026 and 2027, the NH TYPE8A is available for JPY 3,200,000 or USD 23,100, offering a refined blend of historical inspiration and mechanical finesse.

Evolving Classics: The NH TYPE1E, NH TYPE2C-2, NH TYPE3B-4, and NH TYPE5B/5B-1 Series Updates

Naoya Hida's 2026 collection continues to refine its beloved classics with notable updates across several models, showcasing the brand's commitment to continuous improvement and artistic expression. The NH TYPE1E represents the fifth iteration of the Type1 series, first introduced in 2019. This latest version features a new 36mm case, lending it a more sophisticated and confident presence. A key enhancement is the redesigned sapphire crystal, now boasting a more pronounced domed profile, which enriches the watch's depth and visual dimension. Consequently, the case thickness has slightly increased from 9.8mm to 10.9mm, further amplifying its aesthetic impact. The NH TYPE1E maintains its power from the hand-wound calibre 3019SS, derived from heavily reworked chronograph-free Valjoux 7750 ébauches. With an expected production of 25 pieces in the coming year, this model is priced at JPY 2,700,000 or USD 19,500.

The NH TYPE2C-2 introduces a groundbreaking element to the NH TYPE2 series: a dial crafted from porcelain, marking a first for the brand. This series, initiated in 2020 with the NH TYPE2A, is known for its hand-wound center-seconds movement, the calibre 3020CS, based on a reworked Valjoux base. The new 37mm steel case variant retains the classic curved sapphire crystal and screwed back, while the porcelain dial offers a glossy milky white surface with impeccably clean markers and numerals, accentuated by hand-painted indexes and the brand's logo. Production of this unique timepiece is limited to approximately 10 pieces for the next 12 months, priced at JPY 2,850,000 or USD 20,600. Additionally, the NH TYPE3B-4 stands out with its intricate hand-engraved decoration across the entire 18k yellow gold case surface, excluding the bezel and caseback. Adopting an Art Nouveau style—a less common choice in watchmaking compared to Art Deco—this model also features gold leaf applied to its relief-sculpted Arabic numerals. Limited to just 2 pieces for the upcoming year, it commands a price of JPY 15,000,000 or USD 108,300. Finally, the rectangular NH TYPE5B and its variant, the NH TYPE5B-1, receive subtle yet impactful case adjustments for a more harmonious design. Lugs have been shortened by 1mm on each side, and the stepped section along the case flank widened by 0.3mm. The NH TYPE5B features updated, more angular dial design with engraved numerals and larger hands, while the NH TYPE5B-1 differentiates itself with an acrylic crystal and Breguet numerals on its dial. Both are limited to 10 pieces this year, priced at JPY 3,700,000 or USD 26,700 each. The full 2026 collection will be available for purchase on the brand's official website from May 18-21, 2026 (Japan time).