The forefront of Japan's "third wave" watch brands

2026.05.27
Currently, independent Japanese watch brands are attracting significant global attention. If we consider the pioneers, independent watchmakers Hajime Asaoka and Masahiro Kikuno, as the first generation, then NAOYA HIDA & Co. and KIKUCHI NAKAGAWA, who are leading the current boom, can be called the second generation. And now, a "third wave," which could be called the third generation, has emerged. We take a closer look at the forefront of two up-and-coming independent Japanese watch brands that are attracting attention.