Japan has a long history in the clock and timepiece industries. From the early days of the country, when Buddhist monks created the first clocks and timepieces out of simple gears, to the modern day where Japan is responsible for some of the most advanced and prestigious timepieces in the world, the country has always been at the forefront of timekeeping.

Today, Japan is the world’s third-largest producer of clocks and timepieces, behind only Switzerland and the United States. However, Japan’s dominance in the industry is not simply because of its quantity of products; it is also because of the quality of those products. Not only are Japanese timepieces some of the most precise in the world, but the design and construction of many of the nation’s timepieces are considered to be some of the best in the world.

Some of the most well-known and esteemed Japanese timepieces include the Sekiguchi and Kinobe clocks, both of which are considered to be some of the most sophisticated timepieces ever created. In addition, many of the world’s most famous watch brands, such as Seiko and Citizen, have their roots in Japan.

Overall, Japan’s history in the clock and timepiece industries is a testimony to the country’s dedication to craftsmanship and quality. Even today, Japanese timepieces are some of the most coveted and respected in the world, and they will continue to be a major force in the industry for years to come. Derivative industries have also used this technology and know-how to compete in other precision instrumentation-related industries.

A

Aichi Tokei Denki

C

Casio, Citizen Watch

F

Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH

J

Japan Clock and Watch Association

O

Omega, Orient Watch, Owari Precise Products

R

Rhythm Watch, Ricoh Elemex, Ritmo Latino

S

Seiko, Seiko Epson, Spread of Timepieces in the Meiji Era

T

Timepiece Museums in Tokyo

W

Watchmaking Schools