While some of the offerings from TokyoFlash have been exercises in relearning to tell time, some of their more recent releases have been much easier to read. Their latest, the TokyoFlash Kisai Sequence, is definitely in that easier-to-read camp.
Frankly, if someone told me they were looking for an affordable LED-driven watch, this is the sort of styling I’d think of (or something like this, perhaps). The slender case (25mm x 54mm) should work for just about any wrist, as will the choice in strap (black or white) and LED (blue or red) colors. At first glance, especially in the “cryptic” mode, it looks like the time might be a bit tricky to read.
This is an impression further underscored by the raised pattern in the acrylic lens that covers the LEDs. Fortunately, appearances can be deceiving. It’s actually a simple display, with the hours on top, and the minutes on the bottom (keep that in mind, especially when looking at the pictures of the watch sideways). When the watch is in it’s cryptic display mode, it simply removes the middle segment of the LED digit. Sure, somewhat obfuscating at first, but something that’s still easy enough to read.
TokyoFlash also put in a host of other somewhat standard features for their watches. You can display the current date and set an alarm, and you can choose between six different animation modes for the watch to display. Last, but certainly not least, they put a rechargeable battery in the case. Hook it up to a USB port, and you’ll hit a full charge in about 3.5 hours that should last you for two months.
At an introductory asking price of $109 (which is just for the next 36 hours), the TokyoFlash Kisai Sequence is an interesting option if you’re looking for a digital watch that’s a little different than the norm, but doesn’t require a cheatsheat to read the time. Are watches like these heirlooms to be passed down to the next generation? No, they’re not. But, if you accept them for what they are – a fun diversion, not unlike a summer blockbuster – then you’ll be good to go. tokyoflash.com
Watch Overview
- Brand & Model: TokyoFlash Kisai Sequence
- Price: $109
- Who we think it might be for: Someone looking for a clever LED watch for the summer
- Would I buy one for myself based on what I’ve seen?: While I appreciate the watch for what it is, this isn’t one I’d see myself acquiring
- If I could make one design suggestion, it would be: I wouldn’t mind seeing that crystal being completely smooth, rather than patterned as we have here
- What spoke to me the most about this watch: That it’s a “back-to-basics” LED watch with a few tweaks to the formula
