Have you ever wondered why Japanese quartz watches are so popular? They use a particular type of movement that keeps time with incredible accuracy. This movement uses a quartz crystal that vibrates at an incredibly high frequency to keep track of time. The result? A watch that is accurate to within a few seconds per day makes it one of the most precise watch movements.
The Japanese quartz movement had existed since the early 1970s when Seiko first developed it. Since then, it has become a go-to choice for many watchmakers due to its reliability and precision. You can find Japanese quartz movements in many famous watch brands today. So, what makes this movement so unique? Let’s dive in and find out!
The history of the quartz movement
Quartz movements are widely used, although they did not immediately spark a technological revolution. Seiko created the first commercially available quartz watch.
The Seiko Astron limited edition watch debuted on December 25 in Tokyo. It had a gold casing, and it was the first quartz watch ever made, too.
Quartz watches had been developing for a few years before the worldwide publicity surrounding Seiko’s Astron quartz watch, but other manufacturers needed more time to perfect the technology.
The introduction of quartz-powered digital timepieces marked the beginning of a quartz watch renaissance. Timepieces with digital displays outsold their traditional counterparts for a while.
The Pulsar, made by Hamilton Watch Co., was the first digital watch shown to the public in April 1972. This timepiece shone brightly on its light-emitting diode (LED) screen and was housed in a gold casing. Pressing a button activated an LED display that displayed the time in digital form.
In contrast to traditional quartz watches, which had a standard dial and hands, the digital watches of the time were entirely electronic, with no moving components.
Nicolas Hayek launched Swatch in 1983, transforming the Swiss watch industry. Swatch started exporting plastic watches worldwide. Two years after Hayek established Swatch, output hit 60 million. Quartz and plastic dominated Swiss sales and exports. Swatch employed revolutionary synthetic materials, an ultrasonic welding technique, and assembly technologies for watch casings.
Swatch responded to the Quartz Crisis by creating inexpensive watches and building an enduring name in the industry. Swatch watches are great for beginning watch collectors on a budget.
Quartz movement today
Quartz watches have continued to develop and adapt to meet consumer demand. Quartz technology is now widely available, and several high-end fashion labels have developed their own versions.
The watchmakers Breitling, Grand Seiko, and Longines have all made “super-quartz” models for individuals who value precision beyond all else.
Some watch companies, like Citizen (with their Eco-Drive Technology) and Seiko (with its Kinetic), have developed solar-powered quartz watches so that you never have to worry about replacing the battery.
The ‘Quartz Revolution’ introduced many valuable features to timepieces, and now solar-powered watches are on the rise because of their convenience.
Read: How To Flip Watches? A Pro Guide To Build Profitable Business
What makes Japanese movements so unique?
Japanese quartz movement watches are some of the world’s most accurate and reliable timepieces. They are known for their durability and precision and are often used by professional athletes and military personnel. There are a few things that make them so unique:
Longevity
What makes Japanese quartz movement watches so special is their unique construction. The watch’s movement is assembled to minimize friction and wear, which extends the watch’s life.
Durability
The use of high-quality materials ensures that the watch is accurate and durable.
accuracy
The accuracy of Japanese quartz movement watches is due to their use of a Crystal Oscillator. This device helps to regulate the timekeeping within the watch, ensuring that it keeps accurate time.
Less maintenance
The only proper maintenance required for a quartz watch is the occasional battery change every one to two years. You don’t have to worry about winding or other interference to keep it ticking.
Affordable
Quartz watches are powered by batteries, so they have fewer parts and are easier to make than their more complicated mechanical counterparts. Together, this makes the price of the product much lower.
Water-resistance
Another feature that makes Japanese quartz movement watches so special is their water resistance. These watches can withstand depths of up to 100 meters and sometimes more, making them perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
Style
The style of Japanese quartz movement watches is also trendy. These watches come in a variety of styles, from dressy to sporty. There is sure to be a style that suits your taste.
With their unique construction and features, these watches will meet any need.
Best Japanese movements
If you decide to purchase a quartz watch, here are a few options that might be a good match, whether you are searching for your first quartz watch or something new for your wrist
Seiko movements
Seiko movements are among the most accurate and reliable quartz movements available. Seiko produces both mechanical and quartz watches but is best known for its quartz technology.
Seiko’s quartz movements are used in various watch styles, from dressy to sporty. The accuracy and reliability of Seiko’s quartz movements make them an excellent choice for any watch.
Miyota movements
Miyota is a Japanese movement manufacturer owned by Citizen. They are known for making reliable, accurate movements in many affordable watches. Miyota makes various movements, from simple 3-hand activities to complex chronograph movements.
One of the most popular Miyota movements is the 9015. It’s an automatic movement with a 42-hour power reserve and hacking seconds. It’s often compared to the ETA 2824, considered one of the best Swiss movements. The 9015 is found in many microbrand watches and is an excellent value.
Another popular Miyota movement is the 8215, a hand-winding movement with a 21-hour power reserve. It’s often used in dress watches as it’s thin and has a simple design.
Miyota also makes quartz movements, which are used in many budget watches. Quartz movements are known for their accuracy and low maintenance requirements. The most popular Miyota quartz movement is the 6P29, which powers many dive watches.
Orient movements
Some of the best Japanese quartz movements come from Orient. Their watches are known for their quality and accuracy and have various styles. Orient is an excellent choice for a reliable timepiece that will last for years.
If you want to see more watches manufactured by Japanese hands, check out our previous post, where we reviewed the top ten best-selling Japanese movement watches.
Is the Swiss quartz movement better than Japanese quartz?
There is a lot of debate in the watch community about which type of quartz movement is better: Swiss or Japanese. Both movements have pros and cons, so it depends on your preferences as to which one is better for you. Here is a breakdown of the pros and cons of each type of quartz movement:
Swiss Quartz Movement
Pros:
- More accurate than Japanese quartz movements, with an average accuracy of +/- 10 seconds per month.
- More durable than Japanese quartz movements, with a lifespan of around 20 years.- Higher quality construction overall.
Cons:
- More expensive than Japanese quartz movements.
- More widely available than Japanese quartz movements.
Japanese Quartz Movement
Pros:
- More widely available than Swiss quartz movements.
- More affordable than Swiss quartz movements.
Cons:
- More accurate than Swiss quartz movements, with an average accuracy of +/- 15 seconds per month.
- More durable than Swiss quartz movements, with a lifespan of around 10 years.
So, which is better? It depends on your needs and preferences. A Swiss quartz movement may be your best option if you need a highly accurate watch. However, a Japanese quartz movement may be better if you’re on a budget or don’t need an exact watch.
Should you look for a Japanese quartz watch?
If you’re looking for a watch with impeccable accuracy, a Japanese quartz watch is a great choice. Quartz watches are powered by a battery, so they don’t need to be wound like mechanical watches. This makes them more accurate than their mechanical counterparts.
Japanese quartz watches are also known for their durability and low maintenance costs. Because they don’t have as many moving parts as mechanical watches, they’re less likely to break down. And, if something goes wrong, it’s usually cheaper to repair a quartz watch than a mechanical one.
So, a Japanese quartz watch is an excellent option if you want a high-quality, accurate, and durable timepiece.
Japanese quartz watches
If you decide to buy a Japanese quartz watch, here are a few options that will complement your look
Invicta Pro Diver 18906
The Invicta Pro Diver 18906 is a Japanese quartz watch ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
It has a solid stainless steel case, band, and a 300-meter water-resistance certification. The watch also has a date function and is powered by a dependable Japanese quartz movement.
The watch is well-made and stylish. It features a double safety strap and is constructed entirely of metal.
This may be a good option if you have a large wrist or huge and hefty timepieces since it is 52mm in diameter and 15.1mm thick.
It is available for less than $100.
Seiko Coutura SSG009
Seiko is a Japanese company that has been making watches for over 100 years. The Seiko Coutura is a line of quartz watches known for their accuracy and durability.
The Seiko Coutura line includes both men’s and women’s watches, as well as a variety of styles to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a dress watch or a casual everyday watch, the Seiko Coutura has something to suit your needs.
This daring men’s watch has a cabochon crown, stainless steel case, and band. A date calendar, luminescent hands and markers, and three subdials with blue accents are all included on the striking black dial.
A global time feature with 25 time zones is included on the gray bezel. A radio-controlled Radio Sync Solar Chronograph perfectly adjusts the time, calendar signal reception, and results from indication by automatically receiving radio signals.
The chronograph has a split time measuring feature and a date calendar, measuring up to 60 minutes in 1/5 second increments.
Its Solar Cell, powered by any light energy, has an energy reserve of six months if wholly charged. No new batteries are needed. Water Resistant 100M.
It is priced at $260.
Bulova Marine Star 98B230
If you’re looking for a strict, durable watch that can withstand even the most extreme conditions, then the Bulova Marine Star 98B230 is a perfect choice.
This watch is water resistant up to 100 meters, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or other water activities.
Additionally, the scratch-resistant mineral crystal ensures that your watch will always look new.
The Bulova Marine Star 98B230 also features a chronograph function, allowing you to easily track time.
The three subdials track seconds, minutes, and hours, while the date window keeps you up-to-date on the day of the month.
This watch is perfect for any outfit or occasion with its clean and simple design. You can get it for around $410.
Timex Southview TW2R63900
When it comes to affordable and reliable timepieces, Timex is a brand that always comes to mind. The Men’s Southview TW2R63900 is a perfect example of this, as it’s a stylish and functional watch that won’t break the bank.
The Southview features a sleek black and silver design with a durable stainless steel case and leather band.
The simple yet sophisticated dial includes easy-to-read white numerals against a black background.
Powered by Japanese quartz movement, this watch is accurate and reliable, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear.
Water-resistant to 30 meters, the Southview can withstand splashes or brief immersion in water without issue.
Whether you’re wearing it at the office or out on the town, this Timex watch is sure to keep you on time and looking sharp, and it is just for less than $90.
Conclusion
So there you have it — everything you need to know about the Japanese quartz movement and why you should consider getting one. These watches are exceptional because of their unique construction and the fact that they offer accurate timekeeping. If you’re in the market for a new alert, give Japanese movement watches a look and see if one is right for you.
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