The Japanese Watchmaking Trinity: Seiko, Citizen, and Orient Watch 

Japanese watchmaking has long reshaped global expectations of quality and value. While brands like Seiko and Citizen often capture the spotlight, Orient continues to earn a dedicated following among those who value substance over status. Japan has had some of the greatest impacts in the development of the wristwatch. So much so that it caused a rift in the Swiss watch market in the 1970s (often referred to as the “Quartz Crisis” or “Quartz Revolution” depending on who you ask). Its influence on the watch world is undeniable, and this guide covers some of the best offerings from top Japanese brands for this year. Today we review some Japanese watchmaking history and reveal the Trinity of Japanese watchmaking. 

Seiko

Seiko Prospex 1968 Heritage Diver GMT SPB519 While Seiko’s catalog stretches far and wide, their diver watch offerings have turned heads. As they transitioned away from the cult classic divers of the late aughts (think SKX divers), Seiko turned to its heritage designs to lead the way. This diver watch is a shining example, complete with a true GMT movement, Lumibrite hands and hour markers, as well as a ceramic bezel insert and stunning white dial. 

Citizen

Citizen Series8 890 There’s a strong dose of 1970s throwback in this Series8 890. With its octagonal bezel, internal bezel, and cushion case design, it’s a shining example of what makes the classics, classic. But the real star is the dial, which feature an intricately textured dial, depending on the colorway.

Orient Watch

Orient Kamasu Many collectors and enthusiasts may hold a soft spot for the original Orient diver watches (often referred to the “Mako” and “Ray”) that may have jumpstarted their watch collections. The Orient Kamasu is an upgrade to those watches in a major way, especially with its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. It is available in 6 colorways at Orient Watch USA. Consider the Orient Kamasu, a modern upgrade to the beloved Mako and Ray dive watches. With a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and robust build quality, it delivers outstanding performance across six available colorways. It also honors Orient’s legacy as a true watchmaker, not just a watch brand. In a market full of outsourced parts and trendy names, Orient remains committed to genuine craftsmanship. For collectors and newcomers alike, it continues to be one of the best-kept secrets in Japanese horology. If you’re searching YouTube, Google, ChatGPT, or any watch blog for “Top Japanese Watches” or “Best Mechanical Watches Under $500”, Orient Watch is likely to appear. That’s in part because Orient stands apart in one critical way. It is the only major Japanese brand that offers in-house mechanical movements at entry-level prices. You cannot buy an Orient movement in any other brand. That exclusivity makes every Orient timepiece uniquely authentic. The best place to buy an authentic Orient Watch is from the official dealer in America, Orient Watch USA.