I first met Moto of Old But Gold in Paris in January 2019, whilst I was there for the Jumble trade show with Fullcount. We had known each through Instagram but had never met before in person.
From day one we knew we wanted to work together when the opportunity would arise.
Fortunataly he had brought some samples to Paris and he wanted me to shoot and style them.
All Old But Gold garments are made in Japan using some of the best fabrics from local mills. Almost a year later since our meeting, I felt it was a good idea to do a quick interview with Moto so that the readers could learn a bit more about him. Without further ado...
Mathieu
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Moto
My name is Moto and I'm from and based in Tokyo, Japan. I’m 29 years old and I studied linguistics at University. Furthermore, I also studied English whilst living in Manchester for 1 year as I’m a big fan of British music and wanted to be on the scene.
Mathieu
Why did you create OBG and what was the first motivation to create your own brand?
Moto
My dad gave me a Barbour coat that he bought almost 30 years ago. I can still wear it to this day and it is one of my favourites. I want to make things like this in Japan and pass on Japanese craftsmanship to the next generation.
When I was travelling around the world, I met so many great people who are running small local businesses which have inspired me so much that it made me want to do something like them in Japan.
Mathieu
Can you tell us more about the creative process?
Moto
The most important thing for me is that people can wear OBG clothes for a long time. It has to be comfortable, durable and simple, this is OBG’s basic concept. I proceed with all the steps based on the concept. I guess all brands have almost the same steps. The Idea comes first, then the planning stage; decide on the specifications, pick or manufacture the fabric and hardware, followed by making samples and then finally production.
Mathieu
Your brand is relatively new but you are already making high quality garments which stand up against seasoned veterans in the industry. How did you manage to achieve this?
Moto
Do you think so? I’m so happy about that. All the factories, mills and the craftsmen who help me make OBG stuff better and better. I appreciate them so much. They are definitely the key to the quality of the garments.
Mathieu
Was it difficult for you to find the right people to work with who would make the fabrics you want and sew the garments?
Moto
Yes. I think this is one of the hardest parts of making clothes in Japan. Factories, fabric makers, craftsmen are all decreasing and the industry is facing a decline. That’s why it's especially difficult for small new brands who are always struggling for this and and also weird Japanese business rules don't help. haha
Mathieu
Can you tell us more about your collaboration with Watanabe’s and what role you are playing in this brand?
Moto
Well OBG is the production part. The dyeing part is Watanabe’s.
When I met Kenta (Founder of Watanabe’s) for the first time, I brought my loopwheel Tees and Sweatshirts to his workshop. As soon as he saw the items, he offered me to do a collab even though we both hadn’t officially launched OBG or Watanabe’s yet...haha!
Since then we have been working on a collaboration line together.
Mathieu
What products are you currently working on?
Moto
I have started making original fabric with Watanabe’s. I can’t wait to announce it to everyone. I'm also making several new models of trousers, jackets and loopwheeled garments.
Mathieu
What is your favourite garment that you have made so far?
Moto
It’s hard to pick one but sweatshirts is up there, of course, Watanabe’s collab items are also absolutely beautiful and the latest anorak parka is one of the best I think.
Mathieu
How has COVID impacted your work and what have you done to keep going during this weird time?
Moto
Not being able to travel abroad is the worst thing. And then international shipping wasn't working which was really bad. So I focused on selling the clothes to local people in different industries providing workwear for people like farmers, flower shops, restaurants, print studios, photographers and carpenters and many others. It’s always exciting and inspiring to meet new people from other industries.
Mathieu
Last question, What do you like to do beside OBG...What are your hobbies? Any last words?
Moto
I love travelling, music, watching football, and drinking. If you are into my brand please feel free to contact me anytime!
If you would like to find out more about Old But Gold please visit the below links.
You can also find more of Mathieu's work at @thedenimmind
Edited by Illya Sobtchak