I've had my 42mm Hwan for around 5 months now and I've definitely enjoyed it a lot. The main attraction is obviously the kinetic art formed by the rotating discs and it's pretty mesmerizing. I often stare at the watch for much longer than I need to when checking the time just to see the top disc rotate a bit further and form all sorts of cool patterns.
The render in the listing is a bit idealized though. It shows the dial behind the rotating disc to be completely white (which is possible using a flash like in my video), but really would look more like my photo most of the time, with shadows cast by the discs onto the dial. Not dealbreaking to me, but it is something to note.
The case design in tandem with the simplistic dial (not counting the discs) kinda reminds me of MING, especially when I have it on a curved strap. And about straps, my one came with a black leather strap and a Milanese mesh bracelet. The leather one is just okay, and I don't think it matches the watch super well (too thin in my opinion). The mesh bracelet is better quality-wise but it still doesn't really suit the watch to me. I think this watch works best with thick rubber straps (especially when curved like my grey one) or passthrough straps (like a NATO). If you plan to get this watch, do yourself a favor and set aside some cash to buy some better straps. I got my one in the picture for 10 USD on Aliexpress.
At 42mm wide and almost 12mm thick, the case is decently chunky but I think that heft helps the watch stand out more in a way (like a statement piece). The watch uses the Seiko NH35 so that thickness is to be expected anyway. There is a ghost date position which kinda annoys me (especially since Humism only make no-date watches so they could've just bulk ordered the NH38 instead of the NH35) but I can overlook it.
The use of a sapphire crystal is nice, and the AR on it is pretty good; never had any issues with reading the time. And about reading the time, I find this watch to be quite legible. Yeah, there's a big pair of discs in the middle, but when I want to check the time, my brain can easily track and identify the hour and minute hand (or circle, rather). It could be just me, your mileage may vary.
I love mine as it is, but I would definitely be willing to spend more for one with a hi-beat Miyota 9000-series movement (for an even smoother sweep). Fingers crossed for a future variant?
Anyway, this 42mm Hwan is a fun, unique watch and is more than just a novelty piece. Especially with the sapphire crystal and reliable Seiko NH35, it easily separates itself from cheaper novelty fashion watches that use mineral crystals and cheapo quartz movements. If you're looking for a unique watch that can stand the test of time, I would recommend Humism any day of the week.
I bought this watch as my first "real" (non-smart) watch because I found it so unique. I am not a watch person so I don't really know what makes a watch good, but this one seems good. I would definitely recommend it. It would be cool if it had luminescence, but whatever. It's super cool.
As someone who likes unique, creative watches this is my favourite watch and a great conversation starter!
I debated on buying this watch for months and I’m so glad I did! I wish I would’ve bought it sooner
Loving my watch, mesmerising, calming & endlessly watchable . So stylish.
This watch is more than a timepiece; it's a moving work of art. The design mesmerizes with its deceptive symmetry, creating the illusion of expansion and contraction in a rhythm that feels both deliberate and fluid. It's a visual experience that invites quiet reflection, constantly shifting yet returning to a fleeting moment of balance. Beyond its striking aesthetics, what truly impressed me was the brand’s integrity. When my strap tore, their team responded with warmth and professionalism, resolving the issue with genuine care. Their attention to both design and customer experience reflects a rare commitment to quality and meaning.
Ordered the yellow and black kato, was sent a plain black strap not the yellow/black.
Contacted customer services, due to bank holiday reply’s delayed. However when they contacted me they could not help enough, keeping me informed of the progress of the replacement strap that they sent out straight away.
Watch face itself is really nice looking forward to seeing it with the correct strap.
I like this watch that shows me the time accurately. Correct deal price/quality. Now I have to see how long this accuracy will last (hopefully years)
This watch absolutely chills me out. When my mind is rolling 500 mph all I do is look down for a couple minutes and breathe. Instant reset. I bought the 42mm Rhizome and am on the hunt for some of the earlier models on the secondary market... with zero luck so far, which says a lot. The only downside for me is the fit of the leather band. On my 8.25-inch wrist the buckle is still very off-center, which causes the watch to constantly fall to one side. Part of the problem is one hole is too loose, the next is too tight. On smaller wrists the off-center pull would be even pronounced. An infinite-adjustment clasp would be a huge improvement. I do not care for the mesh band at all, I think it cheapens the look of the watch , but I guess the adjustability would be a plus. All-in-all, this is a GREAT watch!
I loved the look of these watches as soon as I saw them online. I had never seen anything like them before. I took a while to decide which one to buy and eventually opted for the 42mm Rhizome. It has only just arrived, so I cannot comment on how well it keeps time etc, but I am impressed by everything about it. I t looks as good, if not better in reality, as it does in the video.
It has a great weight and beautiful finish. It appears to be made to a high standard and is certainly the most unusual watch I own.
Delighted so far.
I didn’t buy the Rhizome watch because I needed a watch — I bought it because I love watching kinetic art.
I’m not a big watch wearer, but I’m passionate about kinetic design, so this was just perfect!
The first time I checked the time on my Rhizome, it was already 5 minutes later —
I couldn’t take my eyes off it.
If you’re reading this comment to see what customers think of their watch:
Just buy it.
You’ll love it more with every single day you wear it.
Thank you, Humism, for creating this beautiful piece of kinetic art.
I’m proud to own one of these.
I brought one of these watches for my brothers 50th Birthday. This watch is an absolute must. The look the feel of this watch is absolutely incredible it is so well made I can't believe how beautiful the design is you can literally get lost in the design when it Moving. When I gifted this to my brother it was like he was a kid in a candy store he couldn't get enough of it, he even started planning his outfits to suit it's design. He designs and makes watches himself but he even said his watch doesn't compare to the beautiful Japanese art watch.
I would like to Thank Raymond for all of his excellent customer service and Thank you Humism for creating an amazing Japanese art watch it's gorgeous. Thank you
So thankful for my watch. Was super excited to meet David on the Camino and get to know him a bit more. Quality is excellent!!! 🙌 I can’t wait to order my next watch!!!
Bought this watch as a gift for my partner who loves watches and even builds his own. He's absolutely thrilled with the whole design of the watch from the movement of the art and hands to the mechanism, watch case and strap. Even the the packaging was just perfect.
Upon retiring from teaching these decades, I bought this RHYZOME 39mm gorgeous watch to chill on iPhone usage! Honestly, the most beautiful artistry. I bought someplace else a bright green thin 29mm leather strap and it gorgeous, and lighter.
