Watches inspired by fictional universes hold a unique allure for me.
They transcend the realm of simple accessories, transforming into timepieces that seem like they could exist within the stories of films, video games, or other creative works.
Unlike mere souvenirs with basic logos or imagery, these watches are crafted with a dedication to detail, establishing a bond with their fictional worlds.
Anicorn, a novelty watch brand, has boldly stepped into this arena with its collection influenced by the hit video game, Death Stranding.
Design and Inspiration
When it comes to pop culture watches, many brands lean toward a straightforward design approach—usually by incorporating logos and character images.
Take the classic Mickey Mouse watch, for example, which features the character as the watch hands.
While charming, this concept tends to lack realism.
I believe a more creative direction would be to develop timepieces that resonate with the stylistic elements and character aesthetics of their fictional sources, allowing fans to wear pieces that genuinely reflect the essence of the narratives they cherish.
Reflecting on my previous project with the LACO RAD-AUX watch design—where we created a piece echoing the world of Fallout—I feel a strong connection to timepieces that bridge the gap between horology and gaming art.
Our Fallout watch successfully captured the essence of its intricate post-apocalyptic universe, proving how satisfying it can be to meld storytelling with watchmaking.
Recently, I also reviewed a digital watch tied to the vibrant universe of Cyberpunk 2077, further fueling my interest in this niche.
In a similar light, Death Stranding presents a distinct and somewhat surreal depiction of a post-apocalyptic world.
Developed by Kojima Productions, the original game has garnered a passionate fanbase, with a sequel on the horizon for 2025.
Hideo Kojima, the creative mastermind behind Kojima Productions, is known for his meticulous attention to artistic detail, resulting in a range of merchandise celebrating the Death Stranding universe, including various clothing lines and, notably, watches.
Features of the Fragile Express Time Watch
Anicorn’s collaboration with Kojima Productions has yielded a series of watches inspired by Death Stranding, with the latest offering being the Death Stranding x Anicorn Fragile Express Time.
This model is designed as if it could be worn by an employee of the in-game delivery service, Fragile Express.
The character Fragile, who dons a striking black leather jacket featuring the “Fragile Express” emblem, significantly influenced the watch’s design.
While the character is female, her style has resonated with enthusiasts of all genders, making this piece an appealing ‘lifestyle cosplay’ option.
The game’s narrative, while captivating, can sometimes be perplexing.
At its core, Death Stranding centers on the challenges of delivering goods in a surreal, post-apocalyptic landscape.
The gameplay mimics a complex simulation of a delivery service, characterized by breathtaking artistry and a captivating storyline.
As the third piece in Anicorn’s collaboration with Kojima Productions—following the Space Ludens model and the Reverse Trike Time watch—the Fragile Express Time Limited Edition watch is priced lower than its predecessors, making it an attractive option for fans wishing to own a piece of this unique collaboration.
Focusing on the watch itself, the Fragile Express Time showcases a sleek yet minimalist design that will appeal to horology enthusiasts.
Its case is made from black PVD steel, measuring 43mm wide, 12mm thick, and 48mm lug-to-lug, with a water resistance rating of up to 50 meters.
A flat sapphire crystal protects the dial, while a similar crystal provides a glimpse into the mechanical movement at the back.
Time is indicated by two rotating discs—one for hours and another for minutes—while a small window displays the current hour.
This minimalist design enhances legibility while effectively maintaining the Fragile Express theme.
Final Thoughts
One area where the watch could improve is in the use of a slightly domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating.
While glare isn’t overly problematic, a curved crystal would significantly enhance readability from different angles, providing a more enjoyable viewing experience.
Comfortable to wear, this timepiece not only looks stylish but is powered by a Japanese Seiko NH35A automatic movement.
Although this movement is commonly found in many watches, it contributes a layer of reliability to the piece.
Operating at a frequency of 3Hz, it boasts an approximately two-day power reserve; this mechanical reliability complements the artistic flair of the watch.
The price tag, while higher than some models using the same movement, is justified by the collaborative artistry and unique design elements.
Anicorn’s decision to include two strap options with the Fragile Express Time adds versatility to the watch.
One is a black rubber strap adorned with a blue and white racing stripe, harmonizing beautifully with the dial’s aesthetic—though concerns about potential wear on the stripe’s coloring may arise.
The second strap, made of leather, draws inspiration from Fragile’s stylish jacket in the game.
While opinions on style and cost vary, this timepiece stands out as a remarkable example of “imagined-in” design, elegantly bridging the gap between fantasy and reality.
For collectors and dedicated fans, artistic watches like this resonate emotionally.
Although Anicorn has yet to share the exact production number for this limited edition, they might want to consider clarifying that detail.
The Death Stranding x Anicorn Fragile Express Time Limited Edition is available for $740 USD.
To delve deeper into Anicorn’s offerings, visit their official website.
Source: Ablogtowatch