iPad cover made by Japanese metal-workers - ARMOR for iPad

Tokyo International Gift Show Spring 2011, Takeda Kanagata Seisakusho exhibited ARMOR for iPad, a special-purpose metal cover for the iPad.

"We've designed the curves to match the image of Apple products. This cover protects the iPad while it's not being used, and when the iPad is being used, the cover goes on the back."

"We've made the cover out of metal, so it can protect the iPad's screen, while having a design consistent with Apple's image on both sides."

Because there's a slight tolerance in the iPad's dimensions, each cover is adjusted manually by professional metal-workers. For this reason, the cover is deliberately designed to feel tight when you attach and remove it when you start using it for the first time.

"We specialize in metal dies, so we wanted to make a product that exemplifies "metal." The first feature we aimed for was slimness. Our goal was a simple, stylish design that appeals to businesspeople."

"The aluminum version of ARMOR for iPad is available for 6,300 yen ($75). The titanium version costs 13,000 yen ($160). The titanium version has been the most popular by far."

Takeda plans to release magnesium and duralumin versions.

"We want these products to epitomize "Made in Japan." It's quite hard to make them in large quantities. So to start with, our goal is to sell 1,000 covers, just as the first step."