Timeless Gauges
Our Story: The Passion Behind Our Craft
Welcome to our world of precision-crafted automotive instrumentation, where passion meets precision. This page is not just about our company—it is about the journey, the philosophy, and the craftsmanship that define every product we create. Let me, Makoto HATANAKA, take you through the story behind our brand, from humble beginnings to the intricate designs that enhance your driving experience today.
A Vision Inspired by the Classics
The foundation of this company dates back to 1999, when I was still a university student. My passion for cars, especially interior customization, led me to create something I couldn't find anywhere else. Back then, the market was flooded with flashy, extravagant aftermarket parts. But what I longed for was a different kind of aesthetic—classic, refined, and understated.
I was deeply inspired by the interiors of 1960s British sports cars. Their instrumentation, adorned with elegant typography and delicate metal bezels, exuded a sense of craftsmanship that modern car interiors often lack. Unlike today's mass-produced, plastic-heavy designs, these interiors felt personal, warm, and meticulously crafted. However, finding components that echoed this era's charm was nearly impossible.
It wasn't just about looks—functionality mattered too. The tactile experience of using precisely machined controls, the smooth resistance of dials, and the satisfying click of buttons all contributed to an immersive driving experience. I knew that if I wanted these elements in my own car, I would have to create them myself.
Turning Passion into Creation
Driven by this passion, I embarked on a journey. With design sketches in hand, I visited countless factories, seeking artisans who could bring my vision to life. My first successful project was a custom heater control panel for my beloved first-generation Mazda MX-5 (Miata). I never intended to sell it—it was a personal project. But when fellow car enthusiasts saw it, their response was overwhelming: "This needs to be a product!" Encouraged by their enthusiasm, I began offering my creations online, and what started as a personal project quickly grew into a full-fledged business.
As I refined my craft, I became increasingly fascinated by the engineering behind these components. I studied the materials, experimented with different manufacturing processes, and collaborated with skilled artisans to perfect every detail. My goal was simple: to create parts that felt like they belonged in a car from a golden age of automotive design, but with modern precision and durability.
The overwhelming support from enthusiasts around the world reinforced my belief that I wasn’t alone in my appreciation for classic automotive aesthetics. Over time, my product line expanded, but my core philosophy remained unchanged—each piece had to be something I would proudly install in my own vehicle.
From Hobby to Craftsmanship
As my journey in manufacturing continued, I became deeply invested in the art of production. If something did not exist in the market, I made it myself. This philosophy led me to explore various techniques—metalworking, injection molding, screen printing, and plating—all to ensure that my products met the highest standards of quality.
Over time, I developed a line of parts catering exclusively to the cars I loved: the MAZDA MX-5, BMW MINI, TOYOTA86 & SUABARU BRZ, and SUZUKI JIMNY. Many have suggested expanding to more models, but I have never wavered from my original principle. I create for the cars that inspire me, not for mass-market appeal. That is the essence of what makes our products unique—they are born out of genuine passion, not business strategy.
The Art of Interior Customization
Why focus solely on interior parts? Because the interior is where the driver connects with the car. The dashboard, the gauges, the control panels—these are the elements you interact with every time you drive. Enhancing their quality transforms the entire driving experience, making every moment behind the wheel more satisfying.
All our products are manufactured in Japan, with some incorporating the skilled craftsmanship of experienced artisans. Our mission is to deliver the essence of "Made in Japan" quality to car enthusiasts worldwide. When you hold one of our parts in your hands, we want you to feel the dedication, precision, and passion that went into its creation.
A Journey Beyond Cars: The Terminator Connection
Outside of automotive design, I have another passion—the world of "Terminator." Since childhood, I dreamed of creating a perfect replica of the Endoskeleton from the iconic movie series. Leveraging the skills I developed in automotive part production, I embarked on an ambitious side project in 2009 to bring this dream to life.
The result? A fully accurate, meticulously crafted replica that gained worldwide recognition. It not only earned me the title of "the world's number one Terminator sculptor" but also caught the attention of the film industry, leading to a personal meeting with Arnold Schwarzenegger himself. This unexpected journey reinforced my belief that craftsmanship and dedication can open doors beyond imagination. The skills I honed in automotive part manufacturing played a crucial role in this project, and in turn, the knowledge gained from this artistic endeavor continues to influence my approach to designing car components.
Crafted for Enthusiasts, by an Enthusiast
This new website brings together all our product lines under one roof, making them more accessible to international customers who have long expressed interest in our work. Until now, our individual brand websites were only available in Japanese, creating barriers for non-Japanese speakers. This platform aims to bridge that gap, ensuring that enthusiasts around the world can experience the craftsmanship and philosophy that drive our creations.
At the heart of everything we do is a simple idea: we create what we love, and we share it with those who appreciate the same level of dedication and artistry. Whether it’s a dashboard panel or a piece of cinematic history, our mission remains unchanged—to bring craftsmanship, passion, and quality to those who seek something truly special.