Vintage inspired skindiver watch from Tokyo.

WATA TOKEI Story

WATA TOKEI is a Tokyo-based watch microbrand that aims to create the most exquisite and stylish modest-sized watches for any occasion.

Inspired by 1960s skin diver watches, our collection emphasizes uniqueness, elegance, and legibility. Our goal is to create sophisticated timepieces that reflect the Japanese sense of beauty, fusing the appeal of vintage design with modern practicality.

what does “WATA TOKEI” mean?

Wata : ancient Japanese means “Ocean”
Tokei : Japanese “watch” or “clock”

We wanted our brand to have a Japanese name that was short and simple to keep the dial clean, but also easy for people all over the world to pronounce. So, We picked some basic Japanese words for “ocean watch” mixed with an old Japanese word.”Tokei (時計とけい)” means “watch” or “clock” in Japanese.”Wata (わた)” is an ancient term for “sea” or “ocean,” and you can still see variations of it in many shrines and place names today.

about the designer / project owner

Naoki is a watch enthusiast who loves modestly sized vintage watches. He has been immersed in the ocean of vintage skindiver watches ever since he added a 1960s skindiver to his collection. By wearing them daily for many years, he began to dream of recreating one with his own design.

With his background as a former 3D animator and graphic designer, he began his attempt at watch design using 3D CAD to see if he could reproduce an average-sized skin diver with a current Japanese automatic movements.

A bit more about the designer

WATA TOKEI Core Values

Guiding principles that define our approach to watchmaking

Versatility fits any occasion

Uniqueness

We have established our very own WATA Style: extreme simplicity and sophistication while ensuring maximum legibility, featuring a Japanese aesthetic that utilizes just a few elements. Large hands and a simple dial with centered numerals.

Attention to Detail

Paying attention to detail is one of Wata Tokei’s design principles in the pursuit of perfection. We not only have our own signature style; it includes an original in-house designed typeface for numerals that fits both on the dial and the rotating bezel.

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