When it comes to precision, craftsmanship, and innovation, Japanese watch brands continue to set the standard. And 2025 is no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual enthusiast, Japan offers a timepiece for every style and budget. The watches blend traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology. The “Big Four” of Seiko, Citizen, Casio, and Orient remain dominant forces, each with its unique legacy and modern appeal. In this blog, we’re diving into the best Japanese watch brands of 2025 — those that are turning heads, pushing boundaries, and proving that Japan still reigns supreme in the world of horology.
The Best Japanese Watch Brands of 2025
Seiko
Seiko’s origins trace back to 1881, when Kintaro Hattori opened a watch and clock repair shop in central Tokyo. By 1892, he launched the Seikosha Factory, marking the company’s first steps into manufacturing. Over the following decades, Hattori expanded the business, producing the pocket watch ‘The Timekeeper’ in 1895 and Japan’s first wristwatch, ‘The Laurel’, in 1913. These milestones set Seiko on the path to becoming a globally recognised name in watchmaking.
After the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake destroyed its facilities, the company rebranded as Seiko and embarked on a new chapter. It introduced Japan’s first self-winding wristwatch as well as the world’s first quartz watch and chronometer. Today, Seiko remains one of the most well-known watch brands in the horological world. Their timepieces are known for their dependability, sturdiness, and fine craftsmanship, making them a popular choice among both watch enthusiasts and everyday users.
Our Seiko Pick: Seiko 5 Sports SKX GMT Sky Blue Silver Cloud
This SKX GMT takes inspiration from a popular archive colour scheme, which captures the scene of the blue sky piercing through clouds. The silvery-white dial features a mix of luminous dot and baton indices and luminous hands with a date aperture at 3 o’clock. The stand-out feature, however, is the blue GMT hand. This aligns with the bi-colour black and blue rotating bezel and allows the wearer to track a second time zone. A robust stainless steel case frames the dial. Measuring 42.5mm in diameter, it houses the watch’s 4R34 calibre automatic movement. Remaining true to the SKX heritage, a ‘beads of rice’ stainless steel bracelet secures the watch to the wrist. And for added levels of comfort, the screw-down crown features at the 4 o’clock position.
Citizen
Citizen Watches began in 1918 with the founding of the Shokosha Watch Research Institute in Tokyo. However, it wasn’t until 1930 that they adopted the name “Citizen”. They chose this name to reflect its goal of making quality timepieces accessible worldwide. Early on, the company built a strong reputation for precision and craftsmanship, expanding internationally by the mid-20th century.
In the 1970s, Citizen helped lead the quartz revolution and introduced several innovations. These include the world’s first multi-band atomic timekeeping watch and the solar-powered Eco-Drive technology in 1976. Today, Citizen remains a global leader, known for stylish, reliable, and eco-friendly watches, all guided by its ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Our Citizen Pick: Citizen Men’s Promaster Diver Eco-Drive Green Bezel
This Citizen is a robust and reliable dive watch perfect for both underwater performance and everyday wear. It features a 42mm stainless steel case and black polyutherene strap, complemented by a sleek black dial with luminous hands and hour markers. The dial also includes a date display at 3 o’clock and it is framed by a green undirectional rotating bezel for enhanced practicality. Powered by Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology, the watch runs on light and never needs a battery change. So not only is the watch stylish but sustainable too! With 200-meter water resistance and ISO certification for diving, this watch combines durability, precision, and eco-conscious innovation in a sleek, sporty design. For everyone looking to blend form and function, this Citizen can’t be missed!
Casio
Founded by Tadao Kashio, the story of Casio began in April 1946. In the early days, Casio manufactured a varied range of products; their biggest accomplishment being the Yubiwa pipe which allowed the wearer to smoke while keeping their hands free. Casio became involved in electronics in 1954 when they released Japan’s first electro-mechanical calculator. Following on from this success, Casio released the world’s first all electronic calculators, the Model 14-A calculators, in 1957.
During the ‘Quartz Revolution’ in the 1970s, Casio expanded and became one of the first brands to create quartz watches. They released their first digital wristwatch, the Casiotron, in 1974. Solidifying the brand as an innovator in horological society, it was the first wristwatch in the world to include an automatic calendar function. Since then, Casio has achieved great success with their wide range of watches. Many collectors have praised the consistency of Casio and the quality of their products, hence they are one of the giants in the industry.
Our Casio Pick: Casio Vintage Collection Digital Unisex
This digital Casio blends retro charm with practical features. Its 36.3 mm rectangular case, made of chrome-plated resin, is paired with a stainless steel bracelet, offering a lightweight and comfortable fit. The watch features an easy-to-read LCD display with an electro-luminescent backlight, a 1/100-second stopwatch, daily alarm, auto-calendar, and both 12 and 24-hour formats. Powered by a reliable quartz movement, it boasts an impressive 7-year battery life. While it’s splash-resistant, it’s not suitable for swimming or showering – so make sure to remove it when coming into contact with water! Classic, stylish, and somewhat simple, this Casio is an ideal choice for everyday wear.
Orient
Orient traces its origins back to 1950, when Shogoro Yoshida officially established the Orient Watch Company in Tokyo. However, its foundations were laid even earlier, in 1901, when Yoshida began selling imported pocket watches. By mid-century, Orient was manufacturing its own timepieces, quickly earning a reputation for quality mechanical watches at accessible prices. The launch of the Orient Star in 1951 marked a major milestone, showcasing the brand’s commitment to precision and craftsmanship.
Throughout the decades, Orient continued to develop its in-house movements and expand globally, becoming a respected name among watch enthusiasts. In 2001, Orient became a subsidiary of Seiko Epson, allowing it to further refine its technology while retaining its distinct identity. Known for mechanical and automatic watches that blend classic design with dependable performance, Orient remains a go-to brand for those seeking affordable luxury and Japanese watchmaking heritage.
Our Orient Pick: Orient Mechanical Classic
This classic model takes elements from the popular Bambino series and combines them with new, modern features, to create an entirely new design. Featuring a cream dial with silver-tone Roman numerals and dark blue hands, it exudes timeless elegance. The dial also features a date aperture at 3 o’clock, a day indicator at 10 o’clock, and a 24-hour sub-dial at 5 o’clock for enhanced practicality. Encased in stainless steel and protected by a domed mineral crystal, the 40.5mm case houses the automatic in-house calibre F6B22 movement. This movement offers great accuracy and reliability thanks to its 40-hour power reserve. A dark brown leather strap, embossed with a crocodile pattern, completes the look; adding a refined touch to any dress ensemble.
What are your thoughts on our best Japanese watch brands of 2025? Which brand is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below!
