Honouring Japanese Heritage, One Tick at a Time
In a world bursting with watch brands vying for attention, one newcomer stands apart—not through loud fanfare, but with a quiet, confident dedication to craft. Luxfanzine is delighted to present Makoto Watch Company, a boutique brand inspired by the simplicity and precision of Japanese design.
An Idea Blossoms in Japan
Founded by Ryan LeClair, a seasoned watch collector, Makoto is not merely about telling time; it’s about telling a story and capturing great memories. The Makoto journey began with Ryan’s deep admiration for Japanese culture, which shaped not only his personal taste but also his philosophy as a collector. He wanted to create something meaningful—a brand that balanced tradition with modernity. And thus, Makoto was born. The name itself, reflects this philosophy: it signifies sincerity and truth, virtues Ryan aimed to embed in every design.
While the market for microbrands is crowded, Makoto Watch Company seeks to stand out by focusing on trust and reliability—values sometimes overshadowed by gimmicky storytelling in the horology space. Instead of flashy complications or overwrought designs, Makoto embraces clarity and simplicity. The philosophy is clear: the best watches are not defined by how much they offer but by how much they honour their purpose.
The Makoto Approach
Makoto’s first offerings, the Hamana and Hakusan, are masterclasses in balance, combining clean aesthetics with robust functionality. Both models limited to 250 pieces each, feature sleek stainless-steel cases, domed sapphire crystals, and 200m water resistance—traits that ensure durability while maintaining a sporty elegance. But these aren’t just technical specs; they’re reflections of a Japan-inspired meticulous commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Powering the Hamana and Hakusan is the Japanese Miyota 9039, a movement often described as the workhorse of high-quality microbrand watches. Unlike the more commonly used Miyota 8215, which sometimes shows its age with noticeable rotor wobble and unidirectional winding, the 9039 is smooth, modern, and dependable. The Miyota 9015 has a higher beat rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour (vph), compared to the 8215’s 21,600 vph. With its high beat rate, it offers a superior level of precision and a cleaner/smoother sweep of the seconds hand, a feature often associated with more luxurious watches. Its slimmer profile also allows for sleeker case designs, giving Makoto watches their refined silhouettes.
Stories in Time
What makes Makoto truly captivating is how it intertwines these technical strengths with poetic storytelling. The Hamana and Hakusan are not merely watches; they are reflections of nature, deeply rooted in Japan’s landscape and spirit.
The Hamana, with its deep gradient blue dial, draws inspiration from Lake Hamana, a vast body of water in Shizuoka Prefecture known for its serenity. Imagine standing on the lake’s edge at dusk, watching the surface darken from azure to navy as the sun sets. That same transition is echoed in the dial’s gradient finish. The pale blue chapter ring encircling the dial hints at the lake’s shoreline, grounding its design in calm, meditative beauty. It’s a piece for dreamers and explorers—those who find solace in the idea of carrying a tranquil lake on their wrist.
The Hakusan, with its pristine white dial, takes its name from the Japanese words for “White Mountain.” However, this isn’t a nod to the famous Mount Haku (often referred to as Hakusan). Instead, the inspiration stems from the serene image of snow-capped Mount Fuji, its brilliant white peak rising majestically into the sky. This vision of purity and grandeur is reflected in the watch’s design: the fully-lumed crisp white dial bordered by the subtle blue accents evokes a sense of calm and timeless elegance, much like the iconic mountain itself. Its powder-blue chapter ring reflects the icy hues of the mountain’s upper reaches, adding an ethereal touch. This watch is a call to ascend above the mundane, to seek moments of quiet triumph in the everyday.
While their aesthetics differ, both models share the same meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship. The 200m water resistance ensures they’re as practical for adventure as they are for elegance, while the Miyota 9039 movement underscores Makoto’s commitment to quality.
A Movement That Matters
For a microbrand, choosing the right movement is as much a statement of intent as it is a technical decision. Makoto’s choice of the Miyota 9039 sets it apart. Designed specifically for no-date watches, the 9039 eliminates the “ghost position” found in other movements, ensuring a seamless and purposeful user experience. Compared to the very popular Miyota 8215, which is widely used but has a less refined feel, the 9039 delivers higher performance, greater reliability, and a more premium experience.
For enthusiasts, the 9039 offers peace of mind: its durability is proven, its servicing is straightforward, and its reputation is stellar. The high beat rate not only enhances accuracy but also gives the watch a level of polish that rivals far more expensive brands. For Makoto, this movement is the ideal choice, aligning perfectly with its ethos of understated excellence.
A Design That Listens to its Audience
Makoto’s journey as a brand isn’t just about creating watches; it’s about creating connections. Ryan’s experience as a collector has taught him the importance of listening to the community. Feedback from enthusiasts played a pivotal role in shaping the Hamana and Hakusan, ensuring that every detail—from the 40mm case size to the jubilee-style bracelet—meets the expectations of discerning buyers.
This commitment to community extends beyond design. Makoto aims to build trust by offering exceptional value. The pre-sale pricing strategy reflects this: while larger brands might lean on marketing to justify their costs, Makoto puts its energy into delivering substance. Every component, from the domed sapphire crystal to the finely brushed steel case, is chosen with care, reflecting a brand that prioritises integrity over shortcuts.
The Road Ahead
Makoto Watch Company may be in its infancy, but its foundation is as solid as the steel cases of its timepieces. With a focus on sincerity, craftsmanship, and storytelling, Makoto isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. Instead, it’s carving out a niche for those who appreciate the art of subtlety, the beauty of Japanese-inspired design, and the reliability of watches that are built to last.
For Ryan, Makoto isn’t just a brand; it’s a personal mission to bring sincerity back into watchmaking. And for collectors, it’s an opportunity to own something more than just a timepiece. It’s a connection to nature, to culture, to craftsmanship, and to the enduring values that make horology so much more than just measuring time.
So, if you’re in the market for a watch that speaks softly yet resonates deeply, Makoto might just be your next great find. After all, sometimes the most remarkable stories are the quietest ones.
For further information and to reserve your limited edition timepiece – visit: https://makotowatch.com/
Use code Luxfan10 for an additional 10% off your purchase.
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