Seiko watches have captivated enthusiasts for their precision craftsmanship and innovative designs. The brand name has resonated with reverence and admiration for decades.
Hence, a common question arises in the minds of many: Where are Seiko watches made?
Seiko watches are primarily made in Japan. According to the sources, we find two Japanese facilities in Morioka and Shiojiri. Besides, Seiko has expanded its manufacturing factories in China, Malaysia, and Singapore.
A few years ago, Seiko manufactured its watches only in Japan. Later, it opened watchmaking factories in other countries to meet the growing demand in the worldwide market.
Are Seiko watches made in China?
Yes, Seiko watches are made in China. However, a few Seiko watches are made in China. On the other hand, some watches are made in Japan and then assembled in China.
One of them is the Seiko Spirit 8T67-00C0 Chronograph Men’s Quartz Watch. Its movement is made in Japan and then perfectly assembled in China.
In addition, the company imports some necessary components, including watch case backs from China. Seiko has a corporate office in Shanghai. The company distributes watches throughout China from this office.
Seiko watches have a global network in more than 40 countries worldwide. It has regional distribution centers in every continent to distribute these iconic watches around the globe.
Are Seiko watches still made in Japan?
Yes, Seiko watches are still made in Japan. Most Seiko watches are manufactured in Japan, particularly in Morioka and Shiojiri facilities.
The hallmark “Made in Japan” reflects Seiko’s rich heritage in watchmaking and embodies meticulous craftsmanship through generations of skilled artisans. They use the exceptional character of Seiko’s dial materials, a testament to their unparalleled expertise.
Seiko began manufacturing and selling watches & clocks in Japan at the beginning of the 1880s. Today, after more than 140 years, Seiko is still dedicated to the perfection that the founder had strived to achieve.
Kintaro Hattori, the founder of Seiko, established the first “Seikosha” factory in 1892 to produce quality watches considering the Japanese market. Over the years, the company expanded its manufacturing facilities and still makes watches in Japan.
Who makes Seiko watches?
Seiko Group Corporation makes Seiko watches through its core companies, Seiko Epson Corporation and Seiko Instruments Inc.
Based in Morioka, Seiko Instruments Inc. assembles and fits cases of watches. At the same time, Shiojiri-based Seiko Epson Corporation manufactures the movements of these watches. They embody precision and quality craftsmanship at every stage of production.
A team of Seiko’s most experienced & skilled watchmakers is tasked with making the best watches in these facilities. They can deliver more accuracy, legibility, and durability than other watch brands in Japan.
On the other hand, Seiko Watch Corporation, a subsidiary of Seiko Group, brings these meticulously crafted timepieces to the markets.
Who owns the Seiko brand?
Seiko Group owns the majority of the Seiko brand. Besides, it is owned by shareholders as it is a publicly traded corporation listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
According to the sources, Seiko Group Corporation has shouldered the responsibilities of consolidation, legal affairs, management of intellectual properties, and investor relations since its inception.
Seiko Group’s affiliated companies are:
- Seiko Watch Corporation
- Seiko Instruments Inc.
- Seiko Solutions Inc.
- Wako Co. Ltd.
- Seiko NPC Corporation
- Seiko Time Creation Inc.
- Seiko Future Creation Inc.
Kintaro Hattori was the single owner of Seiko Group till 1934. The company was listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in 1949 and became public.
Are Casio and Seiko the same company?
The answer is “No.” Casio and Seiko are not the same company. They are separate entities with their own identities. But both companies are headquartered in Japan.
Despite their common national origin, they are not the same company. Although both companies manufacture and sell watches, they have their unique contributions to the watch industry.
Seiko offers a wide range of timepieces with precision mechanical engineering emphasizing craftsmanship & traditional design elements. On the contrary, Casio prioritizes digital technologies, providing diverse practical functions tailored to watches.
However, Seiko and Casio, both brands, epitomize a dedication to innovation, excellent movements, and functionalities.
Sources:
- https://usa.crystaltimes.net/the-origins-of-your-stunning-seiko-watch/ – Manufacturing factory locations of Seiko watches.
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLXTcwxip_Y – Seiko factories tour.
- https://www.seikowatches.com/no-en/company/global – Global network of Seiko.
- https://www.seikowatches.com/no-en/special/heritage/ – Heritage of Seiko watches.
- https://www.seikowatches.com/us-en/company/group – Owner of Seiko.
- https://www.seiko.co.jp/en/group/history/ – History of Seiko Group.
