The ONI Denim 246 “Ishikawadai” represents one of the most authentic expressions of Japanese denim craftsmanship, where traditional machinery and meticulous production methods come together to create a fabric unlike any other.

At the heart of this denim lies the legendary Ishikawadai spinning machine, a rare piece of equipment dating back to 1953 and still in operation in Japan today. Unlike modern high-speed machines, the Ishikawadai spins yarn at roughly one-third of the speed, placing significantly less stress on the cotton fibers. The result is a yarn with a naturally irregular, hand-spun character, full of subtle variations and depth.

The fabric is constructed using 6-count yarns spun on the Ishikawadai and woven on a 1950s shuttle loom, creating a 15oz selvedge denim that balances structure with a uniquely soft and organic texture. Compared to ONI’s more aggressive fabrics, this denim feels more refined while still maintaining the brand’s signature character.

The warp is dyed using ONI’s secret indigo recipe, resulting in a rich greencast indigo tone that evolves beautifully over time. As the denim ages, it develops nuanced fades with depth and contrast, revealing the intricate nature of the yarn.

The 246 fit is a neat straight silhouette—a modern interpretation of classic denim. It features a clean, slightly slim profile through the leg with a straight cut from knee to hem, offering a balanced look that works equally well with sneakers or boots. It’s an ideal option for those seeking a more streamlined fit without going fully slim.

Fit Notes: This model fits true to size for ONI, meaning the tagged size closely matches the actual waist measurement. Compared to most global American brands, sizing is similar or slightly smaller, so you may take the same size or one size up. As always, we strongly recommend checking our size chart to find your perfect size. The denim is unsanforized but has been one-washed, so no further shrinkage is expected. With regular wear, the waistband will stretch approximately 1 inch, allowing the fit to settle comfortably over time. That said, we don’t recommend sizing down, as starting too tight may cause discomfort and alter the intended fit of the garment.