On the morning of Nov. 1, staff at a Nakano Broadway watch shop opened a parcel from Aichi Prefecture to find a luxury Audemars Piguet timepiece matching the model and serial number stolen two days earlier.
The watch, valued at about ¥46 million ($290,000), had been taken on Oct. 29 when a man posed as a customer, asked to try on a piece from a locked showcase and fled with it on his wrist. Security cameras captured the suspect as he ran through the narrow streets surrounding the shopping complex.
Rather than keep the prize, the thief mailed the watch back using a takuhai‑bin parcel service, enclosing a handwritten note that read, “I’m sorry.” The watch showed no visible damage.
Police have not identified the perpetrator, and the investigation remains open. Online commenters expressed mixed reactions, ranging from speculation that the thief feared capture to criticism that returning the item does not erase the crime.
Impact on Nakano Broadway’s Reputation
Nakano Broadway, once known for its sub‑culture shops, has attracted luxury watch retailers in recent years. The incident highlights a shift toward higher‑value merchandise and the accompanying risk of theft in the area.
Future Outlook
Authorities say they will continue reviewing surveillance footage to locate the suspect. The case underscores the challenges faced by high‑end retailers in densely populated urban districts.
Why it matters: The episode shows how quickly a high‑profile theft can turn into a public spectacle in Japan’s major cities, prompting retailers and law‑enforcement to reassess security measures amid growing demand for luxury goods in neighborhoods like Nakano Broadway.