Swiss vs Japanese – which watches are better? | Blog at Watchard.com (2024)

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Swiss quality or Japanese technology? A controversy that has spanned decades and is still going strong. Is the difference between Swiss and Japanese watches really so significant? Can’t a watch combine top-quality workmanship with advanced technology? Keep on reading to find out.

Hand-made watches of top quality

The element that most distinguishes watches is their movement. The popular misconception is that low-cost watches come from Japan, while complex and mechanically sophisticated timepieces originate primarily from Switzerland. Indeed, Switzerland has for years been regarded as the luxury watch capital of the world. The country has a centuries-long history of creating by hand the most stunning mechanical movements and watches. Even today, when the watchmaking industry can be facilitated by all sorts of machines, Swiss manufacturers still very often make and finish watches by hand. Similarly, in extremely technologically advanced Japan, highly-precise machines also allow for the automation of watch assembly, but Japanese watches are made and finished by hand nevertheless.

The history of Swiss and Japanese horology

The history of Swiss watchmaking goes back 500 years. To understand the historical context, it’s important to say that already in the early 16th century, German and French watchmakers were already making travel clocks and even large pocket watches. In the second half of the 16th and early 17th centuries, the Huguenots fleeing persecution in France moved to Geneva. Thus, thanks to a religious group of French Protestants, the Swiss art of watchmaking began to develop and flourish in Geneva. The city is now considered the capital of luxury watches. In contrast to Swiss history, Japanese watchmaking has its roots in the late 19th century, with most of its growth occurring in the 20th century. Japan, which has always been at the forefront of technology, focused on the production of highly precise and functional watches. Some manufacturers take advantage of automation to facilitate the process of assembling watches, minimise the possibility of design errors and increase the number of watches produced. The goal of most Japanese watch manufacturers is to provide the best products at an affordable price.

How do Swiss watches differ from Japanese watches?

Swiss watches are crafted by hand. Watchmakers can spend hundreds of hours decorating the moving parts inside a watch that no one will ever see. Engineers spend an enormous amount of time creating watches made up of hundreds and sometimes thousands of tiny components. Swiss brands focus on design, functionality and unparalleled beauty both outside and inside the watch. In contrast, as we mentioned earlier, Japanese watch manufacturers focus on using cutting-edge technology and automation, so as to produce more watches in less time. However, producing a large amount of watches means that they cannot be considered exclusive. Japan and Switzerland are considered pioneers in the watch-making industry although they apply different methods of watchmaking. Individual style and nuances generate subtle and less subtle differences between them. Now, let’s take a closer look at the most known Japanese and Swiss brands.

Orient – the largest Japanese manufacturer of mechanical watches

Orient is a Japanese brand characterised by a high level of technical sophistication, an elegant, classic design and top quality workmanship. Perfectionism combined with exquisite design makes Orient watches a unique choice for watch fans. The origins of the brand date back to 1950, when the Orient Watch Co. was founded to produce Japanese watches in a remarkably refined style. Now, this legendary company produces subtle and elegant watches that are sure to complement any outfit, adding a touch of chic and avant-garde to your look. Orient is certainly a brand that impresses with both its design and technological sophistication. The watches coming out of the hands of top engineers are extremely precise and accurate. At the same time they represent the best style possible. The design is not overwhelming – the watches are subdued, sometimes even minimalist, but definitely not poor. Their simple style demonstrates their high quality as the Orient brand is committed to the exclusive nature of its products. The company's desire is to create top-quality, reliable watches in a timeless style. This makes Orient watches look really exceptional. Known worldwide for their reliability and precise timekeeping, the watches feature in-house mechanical and quartz movements – they give the watches a sense of prestige. Mechanical watches with automatic winding are a tribute to traditional watchmaking.

Orient Star – luxury collection of Japanese watches

Orient Star is a line of luxury watches launched by the world-renowned Orient brand. The first model of this collection was launched in 1951, gaining a huge number of fans. Subsequent models produced in the following years confirmed the unique position of this line. The Orient Star brand is recognised as the essence of luxury, superb quality, reliability and elegance. The watches present a sophisticated yet classic style. In addition to their outstanding design, they are also characterised by excellent workmanship. You can find timepieces with both automatic and hand-wound movement. This guarantees reliable and long-lasting operation. And, what’s important, all Orient Star watches are equipped with an in-house movement.

Aviator – Swiss watches inspired by aviation

Founded in 2000, Aviator is a Swiss brand inspired by aviation. Aviator watches are designed for both professional pilots and lovers of aircrafts. The brand equips its timepieces with highly regarded Ronda and ETA movements. In 2006, Aviator became the official sponsor of the Swifts aerobatic team flying the legendary MIG-29 fighter aircrafts. The company is based in the Swiss Jura Valley, the heart of horology and birthplace to the world’s finest timepieces. That’s why the watches may bear the "Swiss-made" designation, which testifies to the high quality of workmanship in accordance with Swiss watchmaking traditions. Before being launched, every watch made by the brand is subject to testing by professional pilots who check the ergonomics and functionality. The design of the watches is inspired by the look of aircraft co*ckpits. It combines sporty dynamics with a retro look. Aviator offers a wide range of models with different sizes, colours and finishes. The brand also released some limited-edition watches made in tribute to some of the most remarkable aircrafts that have made history in aviation.

Swiss or Japanese watches?

Swiss watches are synonymous with quality, tradition, reliability and precision. Japanese timepieces, on the other hand, stand for quality workmanship and excellent technology. When making a decision on which watch to choose, it is worth considering the price. Think about the budget you would like to spend on the purchase. Excellent quality Japanese watches are usually less expensive to buy than Swiss timepieces. This doesn't mean, however, that Swiss Made watches are always the most expensive devices. Swiss watches are also available at a reasonable price. Visit our website and check out our Swiss and Japanese watches! Find the model that best suits you!