KUOE
Kyoto, Japan · Est. 2020
Founded by Kenji Uchimura
KUOE is a Kyoto-based Japanese microbrand founded by Kenji Uchimura in 2020. The brand makes vintage-inspired, Japan-made watches in compact 34-38mm proportions, assembled in its Kyoto workshop and sold through its own stores and direct international channels.
- Founded
- 2020
- Headquarters
- Kyoto, Japan
- Group
- Independent
- Price Segment
- Entry
- Status
- Active
Key Collections
- Old Smith — Compact vintage-inspired everyday watches drawing on mid-century British field and dress-watch proportions.
- Royal Smith — Higher-spec mechanical line with refined dials and Japanese automatic movements.
- Sombrero — Dressier small-case collection within KUOE’s antique-design universe.
Timeline
- 2020 — Kenji Uchimura establishes KUOE in Kyoto and launches the brand through crowdfunded sales.
- 2021 — KUOE opens its English-language global sales channel and international demand begins to exceed domestic sales.
- 2025 — KUOE presents at Windup Watch Fair, highlighting hand assembly in its Kyoto workshop.
- 2026 — DHL profiles KUOE Global Inc. as an established Kyoto watch company shipping internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions about KUOE
- Who founded KUOE?
- KUOE was founded by Kenji Uchimura in Kyoto, Japan.
- Are KUOE watches made in Japan?
- KUOE positions its watches as Japan-made, with hand assembly in its Kyoto workshop.
Other independent Japan watch brands
- Casio G-Shock — Tokyo, Japan
- Alba — Tokyo, Japan
- Credor — Shizukuishi, Japan
- Pulsar — Tokyo, Japan