Takeshi Saji R2 Damas Mosaïque Japanese knives are true works of craftsmanship designed by renowned blacksmith Takeshi Saji san. With over 50 years' experience in the field, his reputation in the cutlery industry is solid.
This master blacksmith is renowned for the finesse and aesthetic appeal of his Japanese knives. He skilfully blends the ancestral techniques of traditional blacksmiths with timeless designs, uniting elegance and efficiency. In the 90s, he was honored with the title of "Master Traditional Craftsman", a certification that testifies to his unquestionable expertise.
Takeshi Saji practises his art in his workshop at TakefuKnife Village, a renowned place where traditional blacksmiths gather to preserve and pass on their ancestral know-how. In this way, they help to train the next generation to carry on the tradition.
A damask knife with a timeless design
The 18cm Takeshi Saji R2 Damas Mosaïque Chef's Knife is an indispensable multi-purpose knife. Its versatility is ideal for everyday use. It lends itself to many tasks, including cutting fish, meat (boneless, of course) and fresh herbs.
The blade of this handcrafted knife features a damascened finish, meaning it is forged by superimposing several layers of steel. At the heart of the blade is a layer of stiffer steel, followed by several layers of softer steel that balance out its hardness, ensuring that the blade is less breakable.
This chef's knife is designed with a core of Japanese R2 steel, also known as SG2: a stainless alloy obtained by powder metallurgy. Its rarity and high cost make it an unusual material for cutlery. Blacksmiths appreciate its workability and users love its excellent performance.
With a hardness of 63HRC on the Rockwell scale, this blade offers a durable cutting edge that allows you to make successive cuts effortlessly. Even with this high hardness, maintenance with a Sharpening stone remains easy and convenient.
Another advantage of this alloy is its purity. At microscopic level, its structure is extremely homogeneous, making it even more resistant. For example, it is less likely to chip during use, making it a reliable and durable choice for your kitchen needs.
Secondly, R2 Japanese steel is wrapped in several layers of nickel and stainless steel to balance its hardness. This unique blend gives rise to a blade with an original design and character, combining both performance and aesthetics.
An ergonomic handle for all cooks
The handle of this damask knife is made of ironwood, a material that is both robust and dense. Ironwood is distinguished by its warm tones and slightly lighter shades. Each Japanese chef's knife is uniquely veined, which means that no two pieces are identical!
The full tang blade is firmly attached to the handle by three rivets. The central rivet is adorned with an elegant mosaic pattern, adding a touch of originality and creating a beautiful contrast.
The stainless steel bolster forms the junction between the handle and the blade. This ergonomic knife is perfectly suited to use by both right- and left-handed people.
This Takeshi Saji knife is packaged in a wooden box that is ideal for gift-giving.
How to care for your handcrafted Japanese knife
It's important not to put this knife in the dishwasher. It should be washed only by hand, in lukewarm water, using a sponge and a mild detergent. After washing, be sure to wipe it dry with a soft cloth to remove all traces of moisture, then store it carefully.
It's important to note that, due to the provenance of these knives and the handcrafting carried out by the blacksmith, quantities available are limited.
Find many high-quality knives forged by Takeshi Saji on KnifeLeader.eu!