In the coming weeks, filmgoers worldwide will be invited to watch a movie celebrating Japan’s artistic culture and how the precious commodity known as time impacts that societal sector through the eyes, words and creative work of the noted individuals who contribute to it.
THE GIFT OF TIME
The Japanese company Seiko Group Corporation has proudly announced that on October 23rd, the short film “THE GIFT OF TIME” will be released.
Once a moment passes, you can never recapture it — rendering time so valuable to any undertaking you participate in. The movie attempts to convey this powerful message and the need to utilize time wisely and thoughtfully by respecting critical elements such as nature, the moments spent with your loved ones, your contributions to your community and creating memorable artistic expressions.
Cultural Figures and Their Relationship With Time
The film’s theme is time and its influence on culture. It features several influential Japanese cultural figures, their relationship with time and how the asset has influenced their artistic contributions. In particular, their work showcases how time has impacted each participant’s personal journey and how these events relate to significant locations nationwide.
The Concept
Filmmakers believe time is a gift that must be respected because it cannot be stopped and does not wait for anyone to catch up. Through a documentary approach, participating cultural icons naturally confront and verbalize time in their past work and life.
The film emphasizes that time can be viewed using two prisms. Many people live life to the point that time passes by. However, Japanese culture emphasizes the other viewpoint — focusing on serving your time out using your own will and influence.
An important element of Japanese cultural philosophy is “Ichigo Ichie,” which recognizes the importance of honoring, establishing, remembering and cherishing every moment. Therefore, you are encouraged never to allow yourself to be chased by time but embrace it and employ every moment to create, enjoy and promote harmony with nature and your fellow man.
Seiko’s Cultural Contribution
The film is being presented to the world by the Seiko Group Corporation — known simply to many as Seiko. This company, which dates back to 1881, has embraced and celebrated time during its illustrious history. The entity has created various electronic devices, jewelry and optical products.
However, the company established its world-renowned reputation by crafting timeless, elegant and luxurious timekeeping pieces like watches and clocks.
Seiko has played a notable role in Japanese culture for many years, producing products — including the Grand Seiko and Wako — that honor the country’s craftsmanship and values. Therefore, the company is pleased to help chronicle Japan’s cultural relationship with time.
“Seiko aims to broaden the global appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship by positioning time as not just as a measure but as a cultural force that enhances creative work,” Seiko said. “‘THE GIFT OF TIME’ represents Seiko’s mission to present Japanese culture and luxury to the world from new perspectives.”
THE GIFT OF TIME Project
The film is one component of a greater project sponsored by Seiko to introduce the world to Japan’s unique cultural identity, especially about how the country celebrates the four seasons, the beauty of nature and the work of its major artistic contributors. On July 18 of this year, the company launched a special webpage dedicated to the short work.
As part of their commitment to this undertaking, Wako, a retailer inside of Seiko House in the Ginza neighborhood of Tokyo, recently renovated the basement floor into an arts and culture space designed to combine luxury and artistic expression.
Feel the Experience
Come and experience “THE GIFT OF TIME”. Learn firsthand how the universe’s most precious commodity influences Japan’s art, music and architecture and makes the country’s cultural identity so distinctive.