If you have a passion for history or a fascination with Japan's golden era, you've likely heard of Osaka Expo 70, a pivotal event in Japan's post-war history. Among the many groundbreaking exhibits, Ricoh's pavilion stood out as a true symbol of innovation. As a relatively new player in the watchmaking industry, Ricoh, having absorbed Takano to re-enter the wristwatch market, took a bold step under the leadership of its founder, Kiyoshi Ichimura. He invested a staggering 1 billion yen into the exhibition and enlisted renowned Japanese architect Shoji Hayashi to design the pavilion.
 
The result was nothing short of spectacular: Themed "Progress and Harmony for Mankind," the Ricoh Pavilion featured a towering 40-meter-tall structure, a massive balloon that became a landmark visible from anywhere on the Expo grounds. Attracting over 7 million visitors, the pavilion was an instant sensation, propelling the Ricoh San-ai Group to global recognition. Unfortunately, Ichimura passed away two years before the Expo and never witnessed this crowning achievement.
Today, we present a stunning new old stock, the Ricoh Osaka Expo 70' watch, which was originally sold during this historic event to commemorate Asia’s first World Fair. This timepiece’s design echoes Japan’s national flower, the cherry blossom, which also served as the Expo ’70 logo. 
 
The watch features a pentagon-shaped stainless steel case, a 17-jewel manual-wind movement, and a rhodium-plated silver and blue dial with minimalist hour markers. Initially designed as a wristwatch, this unique set also includes a necklace, allowing the timepiece to be repurposed as a pendant—a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other watches of its time.
 
In immaculate condition, finding a good example can be challenging, but encountering a complete, unused specimen is truly extraordinary. The captivating angles and the mesmerizing dial elevate it beyond a mere timepiece, transforming it into a piece of jewelry in its own right. Whether you choose to wear it as a wristwatch or as a pendant, its beauty is undeniable.
 
The watch currently works flawlessly and will be sold as is. Please let us know if you wish to service it.
 
Ships from Tokyo, Japan