Fans of the popular romantic comedy anime Kaguya-sama: Love Is War now have the opportunity to wear their love for the series with a new, limited-edition wristwatch inspired by Kaguya-sama: Love Is War – The First Kiss Never Ends, the 2023 anime film. Preorders are now open for two exclusive designs based on the beloved characters Kaguya Shinomiya and Ai Hayasaka.
Limited-Edition Watch Inspired by Characters
Amnibus, the official retailer, has announced that it is accepting preorders for the Kaguya-sama wristwatch, priced at 14,800 yen (approximately US$99). The timepieces feature two unique color schemes: one inspired by Kaguya Shinomiya, and the other by Ai Hayasaka. Both watches come equipped with a chronograph function, housed in an all-black alloy casing with a matching wristband, making them a stylish and functional accessory for any occasion.
The watches feature a striking gradient color scheme on the main dial, with Kaguya’s design showcasing a red-black motif and a silhouette of the character in profile. The dial also includes her memorable quote, “I’m in love with you. Please be my boyfriend…” while the caseback is engraved with the words “I love you… Become my lover,” accompanied by the “Koku” logo. Ai Hayasaka’s design features a purple-black gradient, with a silhouette and the quote, “Just once… I’d like to like somebody that much. If only…” in gold trim. The caseback inscription reads, “I wish I could fall in love with someone that much at least once…,” reflecting her inner yearning.
Preorders are open until December 19, 2024, with the watches expected to ship in April 2025. International customers can also purchase the watches through the Buyee shipping service.
Kaguya-sama’s Folkloric Inspiration
Kaguya-sama: Love Is War, based on the manga by Aka Akasaka, draws inspiration from the classic Japanese folktale The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter. This story tells the tale of Kaguya-hime, a moon princess who is found as a baby inside a bamboo stalk. In the folktale, Kaguya-hime sets impossible tasks for suitors who wish to marry her, only to return to the moon after experiencing life on Earth.
Akira Akasaka, the creator of Kaguya-sama, has confirmed that his series is loosely based on this traditional tale, with the characters of Kaguya Shinomiya and Miyuki Shirogane mirroring the story’s central figures. In a previous interview, Akasaka shared that he initially considered naming Miyuki’s character “Mikado” but later drew inspiration from the historical figure Otomo no Miyuki. Fans have also noted that the student council members in Kaguya-sama may represent other suitors vying for Kaguya-hime’s affection.
Ai Hayasaka’s Role in the Story
Ai Hayasaka, who plays a significant role in the Kaguya-sama narrative, was initially intended by Akasaka to be a supporting character. Akasaka admitted that he designed Hayasaka as a friend of Miyuki Shirogane, not a romantic interest. However, over time, Hayasaka’s character has become a fan favorite, with some even considering her a potential heroine of the series.
Kaguya-sama: Love Is War – The First Kiss Never Ends is set after the events of Season 3 of Kaguya-sama, which is currently available to stream on Crunchyroll.
The new wristwatch release offers fans a unique way to celebrate their love for the anime and its characters while adding a stylish accessory to their collection. With its functional design and nod to the series’ iconic moments, the Kaguya-sama watch is poised to become a must-have item for any fan of the anime.
Related Topics
- Ascendance of a Bookworm: “Adopted Daughter” Anime Premieres in 2026
- One-Punch Man Season 3: New Pig God Hero Visual Revealed
- Digital Extremes Releases Warframe: 1999 Anime Short by THE LINE