Looking for a classy way to stay cool this summer? If so, we have the perfect fan for you…but you’re going to need a very full bank account!
When it comes to household items that are “beautiful,” there are all sorts of things that might fit the description. For example, glassware, lacquerware containers, or, if you’re really getting crazy, even toilets could be viewed artistically — but when it comes to electric fans, they’re all pretty much function over form. However, Panasonic is about to change all that with a very limited-edition electric fan featuring a laquered case and gold-colored interior.
All of this combines to create an electric fan that looks more like a relic from the Heian court than a modern functional device.
▼ We can almost imagine Murasaki Shikibu writing next to it in the summer.
The glossy exterior is the result of the application of Echizen lacquer, a traditional Fukui Prefecture craft with a history that goes back 1,500 years. Each of the fans, which are part of Panasonic’s “air generator” lineup called simply “Q”, are individually lacquered by craftsworkers. As you can imagine, a product like this is a bit of a rarity, and the company plans to release only 100 units.
▼ We can’t blame them! Lacquering 100 fans is more than enough work.
▼ Though they certainly do look amazing!
And, in case you’ve forgotten, these air generator fans are totally functional — they offer two modes: Air circulation and electric fan mode. The air circulator mode is designed to output a blast of air while the fan mode is designed to create something that feels like a cool, natural breeze.
If you’d like to see the fan in action, be sure to check out the commercial below! It’s way, way more dramatic than an ad for an electric appliance needs to be.
▼ And yet, it’s also kind of awesome!
If you’re thinking you need one of these limited-edition, super fancy fans for your home, you can buy one now! But be warned, this will probably be the most expensive electric fan you ever see — Panasonic isn’t even offering a recommended retail price! However, they do say that it will likely cost about 100,000 yen or about US$920.
▼ It’s outrageous! But…also super pretty.
You can purchase one of these special lacquered Q fans on Amazon Japan, though if you live overseas, you’ll need to get a reshipping service. And if you like the design, but don’t want to spend quite so much money, you can also get a regular Q fan for 28,800 yen (about $265).
And if you’re looking for more awesome designs, be sure to check out this “blossoming” umbrella. It’s perfect for adding a nice splash of color to a rainy day!
Sources: Japaaan, Panasonic, YouTube/Panasonic Japan
Images: Panasonic, YouTube/Panasonic Japan
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