If you know anything about watchmaking, you probably know that Japanese watches have a sound reputation in the timekeeping community. Japan has produced some of the top watches in the world and, in fact, Japan is on the same level as Switzerland and Germany when it comes to watchmaking That said, we’re going to look at the top Japanese watch brands and what makes them unique.
You’ll recognize some of these brands right away while others might take some time to become familiar with. Nevertheless, the reason we want to highlight these brands
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Japanese Watchmaking History
Before delving into the top Japanese watch brands, you should understand the rich heritage of watchmaking in Japan. The roots of Japan’s watchmaking industry can be traced back to the mid-16th century when Spanish missionary Francisco de Xavier presented a mechanical clock to feudal lord Yoshitaka Ohuchi. This event marked the introduction of timekeeping devices to Japan. Over time, Japanese craftsmen learned the art of clockmaking, thanks to the teachings of Christian missionaries who brought back knowledge from their travels abroad. During the Edo Era, intricate and ornamental clocks known as “wadokei” were crafted, reflecting a unique Japanese time system based on the position of the sun.
In the late 19th century, as Japan embraced Western influences during the Meiji Restoration, the foundation for a modern horological industry was laid. The shift from the lunar calendar to the solar calendar in 1872 prompted the end of the traditional Japanese time system. Western technology began to shape the industry, and the production of wall clocks commenced in various regions, notably in Nagoya, known for its skilled carpenters and craftsmen.
Notable milestones in Japan’s watchmaking history include the handcrafted pocket watch made by Tokuzaburo Ohno, a disciple of renowned clockmaker Norichika Ohno, in 1879. As the industry progressed, the Osaka Tokei Manufacturing Company introduced pocket watches with lever escapements in the 1890s, and several other factories emerged, producing a wide range of timepieces such as wall clocks, table clocks, and alarm clocks. By the end of the Meiji Era, Japan produced approximately 3.8 million timepieces annually.
Following the tumultuous period of the Second World War, the Japanese horological industry experienced a revival in the post-war era. Previously dedicated to military needs, the production capacity shifted back to civilian use. The introduction of wristwatches in the 1920s sparked a new era of timepiece manufacturing. In subsequent years, Japan witnessed a technological revolution with the advent of quartz clocks and watches in the late 1960s. These battery-powered timepieces boasted remarkable accuracy, driving up productivity and making Japan the world’s largest producer of timepieces.
Today, Japan’s watchmaking industry continues to thrive, propelled by a relentless pursuit of accuracy, reliability, and technological innovation. With a focus on eco-friendly practices and consumer well-being, Japanese manufacturers are developing watches that harness automatic power generation and solar power systems, reducing the need for battery replacements. From fashion accessories to essential components in high-tech wearable devices, clocks and watches have transcended their traditional purpose, becoming integral to various facets of modern life.
17. Casio
Casio is a well-known Japanese watch brand renowned for its durable and multifunctional watches. Established in 1946, Casio has been at the forefront of technological advancements in the watch industry, especially with how much utility each timepiece provides. Even though Casio didn’t start making watches until the 1970s, their first watch–the Casiotron–was a hit and they quickly began producing other types of pieces.
The brand gained popularity with the introduction of the Casio G-Shock, a rugged and shock-resistant watch that has become an icon in the field of sports and adventure timekeeping.
16. Future Funk
Future Funk is a contemporary Japanese watch brand that fuses the 70s with modern elements. Inspired by the vibrant and eclectic genre of music bearing the same name, most of the brand’s watches incorporate designs you’ve probably never seen before.
Future Funk watches feature bold colors, unique patterns, and a combination of retro-futuristic designs. These timepieces are perfect for individuals seeking a standout accessory that will get others talking at any social event they go to.
15. Orient
Orient is one of the most recognizable Japanese brands right next to Seiko and Casio. The brand is known for its mechanical watches, focusing on both vintage and classic designs. Orient timepieces offer exceptional value for money, combining reliable movements, elegant designs, and affordable prices (you can get an Orient for as little as $200).
While Orient tends to be a little more conservative with their watches, their success with the Mako and Bambino lines has garnered them a worldwide fanbase.
14. Mirco
Unless you’re a niche watch collector who’s been in the game for some time, you probably haven’t heard of Mirco. Mirco is a Japanese microbrand based in Tokyo that specializes in creating 1970s-style minimalist watches with a sporty design. Currently, Mirco has only released two collections: Type 02 and Type 03.
However, their designs are like no other and you can see that they don’t copy other brands. If you care about your watch dial’s look and enjoy a more robust frame, check out Mirco. It will be worth the time.
13. Citizen
Citizen is another recognizable watch name and it’s one of the most prominent Japanese watch brands, renowned for its technological innovations and eco-friendly timekeeping solutions. The brand came to fruition during the 1970s when they become one of the first watchmakers to offer high-quality, affordable quartz timepieces.
They also introduced the world’s first light-powered analog quartz watch, the Citizen Eco-Drive, which harnesses the power of natural and artificial light to keep the clock running indefinitely. Furthermore, thanks to Citizen’s timeless style, each watch will have the utility and design that you want.
12. Kuoe
Kuoe, a brand rooted in Kyoto, embodies a strong connection to tradition, showcasing vintage watch designs, elegant aesthetics, and understated case sizes. Committed to staying local, Kuoe sources both their materials and movements from Japan.
While their offerings may not be the flashiest, they present mechanical timepieces that boast reliability and an inherent beauty in their simplicity. Most of Kuoe’s timepieces are priced at the $500 mark. However, you’ll find the occasional piece that is more than $600.
If you’re looking for simple designs, high-quality movements, and a reasonable price, check out Kuoe.
11. Minase
Established in 2005, Minase is a Japanese boutique watchmaker that began as a machining workshop before venturing into creating their own timepieces. They are renowned for their meticulously crafted cases with exquisite finishing. Minase incorporates customized Swiss-made ETA movements, resulting in exceptional watches that reflect their commitment to craftsmanship and quality. While their timepieces may not be budget-friendly, they are a testament to the artistry and expertise of Japanese watchmaking.
10. Kikuchi Nakagawa
As we keep moving along this list, you’ll notice that Japan has a lot of small, independent watchmakers. Another one we’ll be highlighting is Kikuchi Nakagawa. This is a watch brand known for its avant-garde designs and exceptional engineering.
The company is named after both of its founders, Yusuki Kikuchi and Tomonari Nakagawa. While Kikuchi was an architect and Nakagawa was a swordsman, both studied watchmaking in France in 2012. Their shared passion and vision for expanding the practicality and designs of a watch led them to found Kikuchi Nakagawa in 2018.
Today, he brand pushes the boundaries of watchmaking by incorporating innovative materials and unconventional shapes into its timepieces. Kikuchi Nakagawa watches are a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing the limits of creativity and craftsmanship.
9. Credor
Like Tudor is to Rolex, Credor is a luxury sub-brand of Seiko, offering exquisite and sophisticated timepieces. These watches showcase the pinnacle of Japanese watchmaking expertise, featuring intricate designs, high-quality materials, and exceptional movements that include even the Spring Driver calibers. Credor timepieces are highly sought after by watch enthusiasts who appreciate the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics.
8. Knot
We’re going to go back to another Japanese local now. Knot is a Japanese watch brand that sources its timepieces from various regions across the country. Inspired by the concept of “less is more,” Knot watches feature clean dials, slim profiles, and refined details. However, what sets this brand apart is the ability to design your own watch far beyond what contemporary brands offer.
While Knot may outsource their movement to Seiko and Miyota, their designs are endless, from custom-built solar chronographs to minimalistic dress watches. Either way, if you want a timepiece that you can build yourself and call uniquely yours, go Knot.
7. Kurono
Kurono is a Japanese watch brand founded by watch enthusiast Hajime Asaoka. The brand produces limited-edition watches with meticulous attention to detail and impeccable craftsmanship. Kurono timepieces combine traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern elements, resulting in unique and captivating watches.
6. Hajime Asaoka
Hajime Asaoka is a renowned Japanese watchmaker known for his exceptional handcrafted watches. Asaoka’s timepieces are characterized by their minimalist design, precision movements, and extraordinary attention to detail. Each watch is meticulously assembled by Asaoka himself, making them highly coveted among collectors and enthusiasts.
5. Naoya Hida
Naoya Hida is a Japanese watchmaker who creates bespoke timepieces tailored to individual customers’ preferences. Hida’s watches are known for their exquisite craftsmanship, personalized designs, and exceptional attention to detail. Each Naoya Hida watch is a unique masterpiece that reflects the wearer’s personality and style.
4. Daizoh Makihara
Daizoh Makihara is a Japanese watchmaker celebrated for his avant-garde approach to horology. Makihara’s watches feature unconventional designs, innovative materials, and intricate movements. His timepieces are sought after by those who appreciate artistic expression and cutting-edge watchmaking techniques.
3. Masahiro Kikuno
Masahiro Kikuno is a Japanese watchmaker renowned for his exceptional skills in hand-engraving and hand-painting dials. Kikuno’s watches are a testament to his artistic talent, combining intricate craftsmanship with mechanical precision. Each timepiece is a work of art, showcasing Kikuno’s mastery in dial decoration.
2. Grand Seiko
Grand Seiko is a legendary Japanese watch brand known for its exceptional craftsmanship and precision. The brand’s timepieces are synonymous with luxury and refinement, featuring high-quality movements, exquisite designs, and remarkable accuracy. Grand Seiko has established itself as one of the world’s leading luxury watch brands.
1. Seiko
Seiko is by far the flagship Japanese watch brand and for good reason too. The brand was the first to pioneer the quartz movement and create the first automatic chronograph watch. Thanks to their innovations, Seiko has made timekeeping affordable while keeping quality the same.
Today, millions of people across the world wear Seiko watches on their wrists. They’re also one of the few companies able to source their movement, materials, and parts in-house, allowing them to maintain consistent quality across all of their lines.
If you want reliability at a solid price, go Seiko–and if you want to see how Seiko compares against other watch brands, take a look at our thoughts here:
Conclusion
Japanese watch brands have made an indelible mark on the horological world with their exceptional craftsmanship, technological innovations, and timeless designs. From the iconic Seiko to the locally-known yet timeless Kuoe, these brands offer a diverse range of timepieces to suit every style and preference.
Whether you’re a collector or a casual watch enthusiast, expand your horizons and try a new Japanese watch the next time you’re on the market.