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There are watch stores that sell watches, and then there are watch stores that create lasting memories. Big Moon Kyoto belongs firmly in the second category. After several days of hunting through Osaka and Kyoto’s incredible watch scene, I arrived at Big Moon with one specific watch in mind—a watch that had been quietly occupying my browser tabs for months. The Grand Seiko SBGM235 “Kiku” GMT. The Hunt For months I’d been watching this reference across every marketplace imagin

Sometimes the best watch finds aren’t in the middle of Tokyo, Osaka or even in downtown Kyoto; they’re just a little further off the beaten path. After days of exploring Japan’s incredible vintage watch scene, I made the journey to Otsu, on the shores of beautiful Lake Biwa, to visit Kyotoya, a long-established watch dealer that has earned an excellent reputation among collectors worldwide. The company has been in business since 1951, known principally as a pawnshop, offering

One of the greatest pleasures of collecting watches is discovering a brand that quietly goes about its craft, unconcerned with trends or marketing hype. During my recent watch-hunting trip through Osaka, that discovery was Minase. While many collectors travel to Japan searching for Grand Seiko, vintage King Seikos, or elusive Credors, Minase represents something different. Produced in extremely small numbers by Kyowa Seiko in Akita Prefecture, the brand is built around extrao

There are watch stores that simply sell watches, and then there are places that become destinations. During my 2026 trip to Japan, one of those destinations was BB Amemura and its sister store, BB Garage, in Osaka. As the founder of WatchTravel, I wasn’t just looking to buy another watch. I was searching for pieces that told a story—watches that represented important chapters in Japanese horology and would become lasting reminders of this journey. First Stop: BB Amemura Walki

“No watch brand is more recognized, more debated, or more influential than Rolex. Its story isn’t simply one of luxury—it is the story of how precision engineering, relentless marketing, and a century of innovation transformed the wristwatch from a practical instrument into a global cultural icon.” Mention the word Rolex almost anywhere in the world and people immediately know what it represents. For some it symbolizes achievement. For others it represents engineering excelle

Introduction While Switzerland has long dominated the luxury watch conversation, Japan quietly created one of horology’s greatest success stories. Grand Seiko wasn’t founded to make affordable watches. It was founded with a singular mission: To create the finest practical watch in the world. More than six decades later, Grand Seiko has become one of the most respected luxury watch manufacturers, producing everything from ultra-accurate quartz movements to revolutionary Spring

Collecting and Dining in Japan's Kitchen Osaka isn't just known as Japan's Kitchen. It's a great city for watch collectors. Whether you're hunting for a Grand Seiko, searching for a rare vintage Seiko, comparing independent Japanese brands like Minase and Kuoe, or simply exploring one of the world's richest second-hand luxury markets, Osaka deserves a place on every collector's bucket list. This guide combines months of research with a firsthand collecting itinerary to help y

Collecting watches is more than just a hobby; it’s a passion that connects enthusiasts to history, craftsmanship, and innovation. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting, having the right resources can significantly enhance your collection. This guide aims to provide you with essential tips, insights, and resources to elevate your watch collection to new heights. Understanding Watch Types Before diving into collecting, it's crucial to understand the different ty

When it comes to luxury watches, the world is filled with destinations that not only showcase exquisite timepieces but also celebrate the art of horology. From the serene landscapes of Switzerland to the bustling streets of Tokyo, these locations offer enthusiasts and collectors alike a chance to immerse themselves in the craftsmanship and history behind some of the most prestigious brands. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best destinations for luxury watch love

Watches have fascinated people for centuries, serving not only as timekeeping devices but also as symbols of craftsmanship, innovation, and personal style. From the earliest sundials to the latest smartwatches, the evolution of watches reflects significant advancements in technology and design. This blog post takes you on a journey through the rich history of watches, exploring their development, cultural significance, and the passion that drives watch enthusiasts today. The

London is home to many great watch retailers, but few offer an experience quite like Time+Tide. Rather than feeling like a traditional luxury boutique, walking through the doors feels more like entering a clubhouse built by watch enthusiasts, for watch enthusiasts. The first thing that struck me was the open floor plan. There are no intimidating display counters or pressure to make a purchase. Instead, the watches are presented openly, encouraging visitors to browse, compare