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Japan Movement VS Swiss Movement: Which is better?

May 28, 2024

When buying a hardy timepiece that's ready to rough it out with you, one of the most essential features to look out for are maximum accuracy and reliability, which boils down to the movement of the watch. The movement is the beating heart of the watch, determining the watch's long-term durability and stability. 


In this blog, we will explore the differences between Swiss and Japanese movements, and compare them based on price range, design, and accuracy. We will also examine factors to consider when choosing between the two, such as purpose, budget, personal style, and brand preference. By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of which movement is right for you, and whether Swiss or Japanese movement is the way to go.



Table of Contents

● What is a watch movement?

● What is Japanese movement watches

● Japanese movement vs swiss movement - What Difference?

● Japan Movt VS Swiss Movement: Which is better?

● How Does Japan Movement Watch Work?

● Conclusion





What Is a Watch Movement?

The movement of a watch is considered the most important part of a watch. A watch movement is the mechanism that makes your watch tick. Without the movement, the watch cannot tell time. Just like how a car requires an engine to power up and get going. 



What Is a Japanese Movt Watch?

Japanese movt watches have mechanical movements, automatic movements or quartz movements that are manufactured in Japan. Though many watches are famous for having Swiss movements, Japanese movements continue improving in quality, and are now on-par with watches with Swiss movements, and on many occasions have even surpassed Swiss movements in terms of reliability.





Japanese Movement vs. Swiss Movement: What's the Difference?


Swiss and Japanese movements differ primarily in that Swiss movements focus on the aesthetics of craftsmanship, whilst Japanese movements are made with precision and accuracy in mind. Both are used to power a wide range of timepieces and are utilised by a large number of watchmakers across the world.


In terms of accuracy and precision, the mechanism is on par with Swiss models. Furthermore, Japanese movements are generally more affordable without sacrificing functionality or performance.


Japanese movements are made in a slightly different way, primarily on an automated robotics line. This allows for a far lower degree of inaccuracy as compared to movements crafted with sight alone. The whole Japanese approach revolves around efficiency and functionality. These watches are built with precision and effectiveness at the forefront, with aesthetics as a secondary thought.


Swiss movements are typically more expensive than Japanese movements due to their high quality and hand-crafted nature. On the other hand, Japanese movements are mass-produced using automated processes, which makes them more affordable. So in the same condition and with the same function Swiss movement watch price is higher than Japan movement watch prices.


Difference of Japanese movements & Swiss movements


Japanese Movement Swiss Movement
Price rangeJapanese automatic movement watch is priced below $100 and Japanese quartz movement watch is generally below $10.Swiss movement watches are priced above $200
Manufacturing processJapanese movement watch are produced in mass production on a production line scale.Swiss movements are hand assembled
DesignJapanese movements are simpler and more streamlined, with fewer movement parts.Swiss movements are often complex and intricate, with many small parts that must be assembled by hand
Winding methodone-way windingtwo-way winding





Japan Movement VS Swiss Movement: Which is better?


Japan movements are known for their precision and accuracy. Brands like Seiko and Citizen are renowned for their high-quality movements that are often very reliable. Because of the automated production line used in Japanese movements, they are cheaper than Swiss movements.

A expert engaged in Vintage watch restoration, Michael KurtzMany thnks low cost Japan movt watches like a seiko NH35, to a higher level of accuracy than a rolex, he said:" I've had a brand new rolex submariner, and brand new datejust, which were both COSC certified, and consistently lost or gained 10 sec a day. and I have a number of NH35 seiko movement watches where the watch was within 6 sec a day accuracy. when they have not been, I'm able to easily open the case back and nudge the +/- lever with a few tries so the Japan movement watch is running more accurately than my $4000 rolex."


However, swiss movt is also high quality. Swiss watchmaking is known for its tradition of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Swiss movements are the original automatic movements, and they set the standard for both precision and quality. Swiss movements must adhere to certain laws that ensure excellence and accuracy, and are also most often hand-assembled and meticulously finished.— a detail which usually impacts the overall quality and price of the watch. Brands like Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe are famous for their Swiss-made movements.


Deciding which movement is better ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs.  Here are some factors to consider when choosing between a Swiss vs Japanese movement: 


Budget:

Swiss movements are more expensive than Japanese movements due to their high quality and craftsmanship. If you have a limited budget, a Japanese movement may be a more affordable option.


Personal style:

Consider your personal style and what type of watch design you prefer.  Swiss movt are often complex and intricate, while Japanese movements are often simpler and more streamlined. 


Usage:

If you need a watch for formal occasions or for collecting, a Swiss movement watch may be the way to go.  If you need a watch for everyday use, a Japanese movement may be more practical and affordable. 

Brand preference:

Watch Movement selection is especially important if you are an entrepreneur who wants to create your own watch brand. The movements of ultra-luxury watch brands are Swiss mechanical movements. The movements of ordinary premium watch brands are Swiss quartz or Japanese mechanical movements. Cost-effective fashion brands are Japanese movements.




How Does Japan Movement Watch Work?

Japan movt watches work:


A battery provides the current to the microchip circuit.


A microchip circuit makes the precisely cut tuning fork quartz crystal vibrate at 32768 times per second.


Another microchip circuit detects the crystal’s oscillations and turns them into regular electric pulses, one per second.


These electric pulses drive the miniature electric stepping motor and convert electrical energy into mechanical power.


The electric stepping motor also turns the tiny gears.


These tiny gears sweep the hands around the watch face to keep time.




In Conclusion

At the end of the day, both Japanese and Swiss movement watches have their own strengths and characteristics. Japan movements are known for their precision, affordability, and innovation, while Swiss movements are associated with luxury, craftsmanship, and tradition. Ultimately, the choice between a Japanese or Swiss movement watch depends on personal preferences, budget, and the specific features and qualities you are looking for in a timepiece.



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