KUOE

KUOE's story begins in London, where the designer visited during a language study abroad in his university days. The experience of encountering hand-wound watches from the 1940s to 1970s at an antique watch shop — and being fascinated by how they continued to tick after decades — became the starting point for launching the brand.

After returning to Japan, while learning the knowledge and techniques of watchmaking, he envisioned a classic watch brand that leveraged the strengths of Japanese craftsmanship. Thus, in 2020, KUOE was born in Kyoto. The concept is "delivering the appeal of classic design from Kyoto to the world." The quiet atmosphere of Kyoto's historic streets is layered into the worldview of the product as well.

While committed to in-house workshop assembly and Japan-made movements, KUOE aims to make domestic classic watches a more familiar presence through reasonable pricing made possible by the D2C model. Today, centered on the online store, the brand has grown into a global brand delivering watches to over 100 countries.

KUOE has established the directly managed store "KUOE KYOTO Main Store" on Kyoto's Teramachi shopping street, providing an environment where you can actually pick up and try the watches. In addition to standard models, the brand also focuses on creating experiences for enjoying classic watches over time — including special-order models and strap combination suggestions.

Classic design from Kyoto, learning from antiques

Built on the founder's experience with antique watches from the 1940s to 1970s encountered in London, KUOE brings the universal beauty of classic watches into contemporary products. The designs feel somehow nostalgic yet naturally blend into daily attire.

Assembled one by one at the in-house workshop in Kyoto

KUOE watches use Japan-made movements and are assembled one by one by craftsmen at the company's own workshop in Kyoto. Through careful assembly and quality control, KUOE achieves Japan-made watches that combine classic appearance with modern reliability.

Reasonable pricing made possible by the D2C model

By adopting a D2C model that handles planning, manufacturing, and sales in-house, KUOE eliminates middlemen as much as possible. The brand values offering high-quality Japan-made classic watches at accessible price points.

Unisex 35mm cases with a variety of options

Flagship models such as OLD SMITH feature small case sizes of around 35mm, reminiscent of antique watches. Easy to fit regardless of gender or wrist size, they accommodate a wide range of styles through combinations of dial designs and straps.