It was back in 2016 when Ferrari first unveiled the 488 Spider-based J50, a limited edition model built to commemorate the company's 50th anniversary in Japan. There was even an official unveiling ceremony at the National Art Center in Tokyo. Production was limited to only ten examples and yet none of those lucky owners have received their cars. Until now, that is. According to a Twitter post first uncovered by AutoGuide, the first two J50 have been spotted at the recently held Ferrari Racing Days Japan event in Fuji.

A red and silver example were both on display. A third J50 with a blue exterior, gold wheels, and blue leather upholstery also exists and was recently featured in Ferrari's own magazine. Ferrari designed the J50 in-house, and its styling was inspired by previous Ferrari road cars of the 1970s and 80s. Ferrari also aimed for something of a futuristic and radical look that it believed would suit the tastes of its selected Japanese customers. Notice the targa bodywork and distinctive dividing line sloping across the doors, a direct nod to the F40 and F50. Even the "helmet visor" window effect is a direct tribute to Ferrari's open competition barchettas from the 50s.

The bottom line is that the J50 was designed to be extremely aerodynamic. Its front bumper is completely different than that of the 488. The radiators are also positioned closer together and the windscreen was lowered to direct additional airflow to the rear spoiler. The rear diffuser has an interesting extractor shape inspired by jet engine afterburners. However, the J50 shares its chassis and engine, a 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8 with 690 hp, with the 488 GTB and 488 Spider.