Seiko watches have been a staple of the watchmaking industry for decades. From its beginnings in the early 1900s to their current status as one of the world’s most beloved watchmakers, Seiko has a long and interesting history. As a watch enthusiast, it’s important to understand the origins of your beloved Seiko watch.

In this guide, we’ll explore the history of Seiko, from its beginnings to the technological advancements that make them one of the most sought-after watches in the world:

Where Seiko Builds Their Watches

Seiko is a Japanese watchmaking company that designs, produces, and distributes millions of watches annually. They specialize in producing the Grand Seiko model, made in Japan.

Seiko has opened factories in other countries to meet the growing need for their watches. These factories are in China, Malaysia, and Singapore, and they are closely supervised to ensure that each watch is of the same excellent quality. And it is Seiko that decides whether each watch should have a quartz or mechanical movement.

Expected Retail Prices for Seiko Watches

Most Seiko watches sold at a retail price of $800 or lower aren’t completely manufactured or put together in Japan. This is because wages in Japan are typically higher than in other Asian countries, so companies have to produce cheaper models elsewhere to maintain a high-profit margin.

Meanwhile, Seiko watches, all built and crafted in Japan, can cost over $2,000.

Knowing Whether a Watch Is “Made in Japan” or “Made in Switzerland”

To be labeled ‘Made in Japan,’ a watch must be crafted within the country or come from a foreign facility completely owned and operated by a Japanese company. Meanwhile, for a watch to be labeled ‘Made in Switzerland,’ it must have been put together in Switzerland and must contain a Swiss movement.

Lack of “Made in Japan” Label

Seiko identifies its watches as either ‘J’ or ‘K.’ Where the ‘J’ goes to watches made in Japan, the ‘K’ goes to watches made outside of Japan.

The two watches look the same when you wear them, but the J-branded watch is made in Japan and will have the words “Made in Japan” printed on the dial between the 6 and 7 o’clock markers. The back of the J-label watch will also say “Japan,” whereas the K-branded watch will not.

The Popularity of Japan-Made Seiko Watches

Many people prefer Seiko watches made in Japan because they feel the quality of the product is superior and the “Made in Japan” name carries a certain prestige with it, even though they are generally more expensive than similar models made elsewhere.

Conclusion

Investing in a Seiko watch is a wise decision and understanding the history behind the product helps to build a deeper respect for the brand. Seiko watches are renowned for their quality construction, long-term reliability, and stylish designs. Knowing the company’s story helps you realize why the watches are valued. So, what are you waiting for? Grab yourself a Seiko watch or two today!

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Understanding the Origins of Your Stunning Seiko Watch