A tribute to legacy. A celebration of craftsmanship.
Dignity. Heritage. Artistry.
Built on in the original gold variant of the Gran Luz, the Philippine edition (DI.GL56.M) brings with it the warmth of home — a proud expression of identity, resilience, and radiance.
- Its Mother-of-Pearl inlays at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock reflects light in the four symbolic colors of the Philippine flag: blue, red, white, and yellow — like the cardinal points of the nation’s soul.
- Each dial reflects the rays of the Sinag — the sun on the Philippine flag — which layers richness of Filipino heritage, tied together by golden undertones and art deco details that whisper of Manila’s storied Golden Age of Architecture.
Discipline. Honor. Craftsmanship.
Taking its base from the original silver variant of the Gran Luz, the Japan variant (DI.GL56.T) is refined in quiet tones — embodying clarity, subtlety, and grace.
- The dial hour markers and hands are plated entirely in silver, offering a modest take on original dial variant.
- At the 12 o’clock position, a single red mother-of-pearl inlay radiates gently, symbolizing the Hinomaru (日の丸) — the red sun of the Japanese flag — surrounded by three white Mother-of-Pearl inlays at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock.
- This thoughtful arrangement expresses harmony and balance, with every detail paying tribute to Japan’s legacy of precision and harmony in craftsmanship.
The Diamond of Japanese Leather
Both watches are paired with custom straps made of Himeji Kurozan leather — a material so prized it is known as the "diamond of leathers" in Japan.
- Once favored by samurai during Japan’s Sengoku era, this lustrous, armor-grade leather lives on in the dō-mune (胴胸) of the modern bōgu (防具) or kendo armor — revered for its unparalleled toughness, durability, and the mirror-like brilliance of its lacquered finish.
- Kurozan is made through a labor-intensive process that require traditional Japanese tanning techniques with lacquer coating, giving it a unique faceted sheen that evokes traditional Japanese elegance.
- Each strap is crafted in partnership with Japanese artisans and Moreno Watch Studio, bridging the old and the new, the martial and the meditative.
- Know more about Himeji Kurozan leather through the following link.
Variant-specific:
- The Philippine variant is paired with a rich brown Kurozan strap — echoing earth and warmth.
- The Japan varient comes with a deep black Kurozan strap — evoking formality, depth, and ink-like simplicity.
We use leather that has been thoroughly lacquered, dried, and cured. However, depending on your skin type or physical condition, there’s a small chance it may cause irritation. If you notice any discomfort or skin reaction, we recommend discontinuing use and consulting a medical professional.
A Legacy of Friendship – 70 Years Since Quirino’s Great Gesture
The Gran Luz 56 celebrates a historic milestone: 70 years since the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines in 1956 — a legacy made possible through the virtue and statesmanship of President Elpidio Quirino, who laid the foundation for a renewed partnership.
The special watch is thus not only a work of design, but a timekeeper of memory — carrying within its case the shared aspirations of peace, rebuilding, and cross-cultural understanding.
The unveiling of the Gran Luz 56 coincides with the celebration of Quirino Day (November 16th) and is part of the “Kami to Kami / 神とカミ” exhibition in Tokyo, where craft, cultural heritage, and storytelling through artistry come together.