What do you get with one year, one wash, and one soak? Today’s Fade of the Day, of course! This time out we’re featuring a pair of Momotaro 0306-V sent to us by way of Laurent Ungeheuer in France.

Laurent says he’s worn these jeans continuously over the past year and so far has not needed to repair them (though we do spy some holes forming at the front crotch). Eagle-eyed readers will note that the jeans have faded more on the left knee; that’s because Laurent often kneels there at work.

This pair is starting to come alive with the trademark electric-blue fades and vertical striation that Momotaro jeans are known for. The whiskers are well-defined, almost popping out, and reach around to the back pockets nicely. The honeycombs are also coming along well and show this pair’s still-hidden potential.

Momotaro 0306-V Raw Denim Jeans

• Fabric: 100% cotton selvedge denim
• Fabric weight: 15.7 oz.
• Fabric source: Japan
• Made in: Japan
• Fit: Tight tapered
• Additional Details:
  • Unwashed, sanforized
  • Button fly
  • Zimbabwe cotton
  • Cow leather patch
  • Pink inseam stitching
  • Custom hardware
  • ‘Peach’ selvedge
• Available at: Blue Owl for $295