Kamen Rider Returns to Its 1971 Origins With Special 55th Anniversary Watch
Image by Charlotte DavisKamen Rider is celebrating its 55th anniversary with a limited-edition timepiece inspired by the original hero, paying tribute to one of Japan’s longest-running superhero franchises.
The newly announced “Kamen Rider 55th Anniversary Special Chronograph” has been developed in collaboration with FULTON, a Swiss watch brand founded in 1885, with just 1,971 individually numbered pieces being produced worldwide in reference to the original series’ debut year.
Kamen Rider made its television debut in 1971, introducing audiences to Takeshi Hongo, a young man transformed into a cyborg by the sinister organization Shocker before escaping and using his newfound powers to fight against its plans.
Created by manga artist Shotaro Ishinomori, the series helped popularize Japan’s tokusatsu superhero genre and grew into a franchise spanning numerous television series and movies.
Hongo’s green armor, red eyes, scarf, and motorcycle became enduring symbols of Kamen Rider, inspiring countless figures, toys, and other merchandise over the decades.
The franchise has been celebrating its anniversary throughout 2026, including the announcement of The Kamen Rider Animated, a new animation label established by Toei and Ishimori Productions to introduce the series to new audiences through original projects and adaptations.
For the commemorative chronograph, FULTON has incorporated several design elements inspired by the original 1971 television series, combining the hero’s familiar colors with details drawn from his equipment and history.
The watch features a deep green dial with contrasting red accents, referencing the original Kamen Rider’s appearance without directly reproducing his helmet or armor.
At the 12 o’clock position sits the emblem of the Tachibana Racing Club, the organization associated with Hongo and his motorcycle, while the small seconds dial at 6 o’clock incorporates a wind-turbine design inspired by the source of the hero’s transformation powers.
Its stainless steel case measures approximately 40 mm across and 15 mm thick, with a total weight of around 179 grams and water resistance rated to 10 atmospheres.
The reverse features a special 55th-anniversary emblem alongside an individually engraved serial number, although buyers will be unable to request a specific number.
Setting the watch apart from a conventional battery-powered chronograph is its radio-controlled solar movement, which uses sunlight or indoor lighting to recharge its internal battery.
It can also receive Japan’s standard radio time signals to automatically correct its timekeeping, eliminating the need for regular manual adjustments when operating within the supported reception area.
Two interchangeable straps are included, allowing owners to choose between a stainless steel bracelet and a genuine leather strap featuring red stitching.
A small adjustment tool is also supplied for switching between the two, alongside a presentation box, warranty card, and instruction manual.
The “Kamen Rider 55th Anniversary Special Chronograph” is now available to order through the official Direct Art Gallery online store in Japan, priced at ¥49,500 (approximately $313 / £234), with deliveries scheduled to begin in January 2027.
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