Otsuka Lotec No 5 KAI Owner Review : Brutal, daring and modern

The Otsuka Lotec No. 5 Kai represents a refinement, not just of the original No. 5, but of the brand's entire catalogue. Otsuka's design language has revolved around founder Jiro Katayama's manufacturing background, resulting in a unique industrial aesthetic, unmistakably his. But the No. 5 Kai adds a new degree of refinement and elegance that had previously been absent in the brand's more industrial designs. The wandering hour complication is on full display, under a gorgeous, bulbous crystal. The case sits compactly, elegantly on the wrist. You would never confuse the watch for any other brand, with its manufactured parts out on display, but the rawness of that process has been cleaned up while the honesty remains. This is a design that captures a brand, an aesthetic completely, while stepping up into a new tier of professional watchmaking. Outside of the design, fit and finish are excellent. The watch, while unusual, is unobtrusive, and fits well on an average wrist. The only negatives to note are few. As it is a modified Miyota, the rotor spins freely, and is relatively loud. The watch also feels relatively delicate, with the wandering hours complication and large crystal. This is not one to wear while playing sports.