Beyond Seiko: Kuoe, Kurono Tokyo and Japan’s Hottest Microbrand & Independent Watches

In this episode, Praka is joined by returning guest and friend of the show EddyDayCarry to explore the world of Japanese microbrand and independent watchmaking. We dig into what defines the Japanese microbrand space, from neo-vintage design and traditional craftsmanship to modern, enthusiast-focused independents.A big thank you to Kuoe Kyoto for sending watches across for us to handle and check out during the recording — greatly appreciated.WristchecksEddy is wearing the Seiko SARB035, while Praka is wearing the Kuoe Sombrero.Seiko SARB035:https://www.chrono24.com.au/seiko/ref-sarb035.htmKuoe Sombrero:https://www.kuoe-en.com/product-page/sombrero-90-011-green-linen-dial-20-bar-water-resistantRecapWe break down a wide range of Japanese microbrand and independent watch companies, discussing what sets them apart from both mainstream brands and Western microbrands. The conversation covers how Japanese design philosophy, sizing preferences, finishing, and cultural influences shape the final product.We explore brands such as Kuoe, Knot, KNIS, Kurono Tokyo, Kintoshi Kyoto, Kiwame Tokyo, Wancher, and Namica, Brands & Links DiscussedKuoe (Kyoto):https://www.kuoe-en.com/Knot (Tokyo):https://en.knot-designs.com/KNIS (Kyoto):https://en.knis-kyoto.com/Kurono Tokyo:https://kuronotokyo.com/Kintoshi Kyoto:https://kintoshikyoto.com/Kiwame Tokyo:https://kiwametokyo.com/en/collections/watchesWancher Watches:https://wancherwatch.com/Namica Watches:https://www.namicawatches.com/Something Interesting:EddyDayCarry:https://www.netflix.com/watch/81574118?source=35Praka – Shinchi Watches (Instagram):https://www.instagram.com/p/DEDDf5YT0aI/Other Links MentionedMiyota 9000 Series Movement Overview (WatchingJames):https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=rNmFia_Uth4Make sure to follow EddyDayCarry on Instagram here:https://www.instagram.com/eddydaycarry/?hl=enContact UsThanks for tuning in! If you have any feedback or just want to chat, you can find us here:Praka: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kinda.average.watches⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OverTime Broadcast Channel (Instagram): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/channel/AbYuJN0yPDu4UXZk/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OverTime The Podcast: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linktree – OverTime The Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support UsIf you’d like to support the show, you can buy us a coffee here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/overtimethepodcast⁠⁠⁠