Kiwame Tokyo is a brand I began covering in 2025.
This company from the Asakusa district produces classically designed watches while maintaining an affordable price. So far, this strategy is proving successful: with each new release, the models receive almost unanimous acclaim and sell out at lightning speed. In this article, we will review the latest trio of models under the name Kubo collection.
Comparison with Seiko and Citizen: A New Competitor in the Japanese Market
It's hard not to compare any Japanese watch brand with Seiko or Citizen. These two companies are so successful and influential that they dominate the domestic market and, to some extent, abroad. Therefore, the emergence of a new player like Kiwame Tokyo, which offers serious competition, deserves attention. The watches of this newcomer look more "Swiss," if I may say so, and they are undeniably attractive. Now let's take a closer look at the Kubo collection.
Kiwame Tokyo Kubo Collection: Materials and Design
The Kubo models are made of 316L stainless steel with case dimensions of 37 mm in diameter and 45 mm from lug to lug. The mid-case thickness is 9.3 mm, and the overall thickness is 10.7 mm, including the domed sapphire crystal with internal anti-reflective coating.
With water resistance of 30 meters (3 atm), each model fits the format of classic wristwatches. Depending on the dial color, the calfskin strap is available in dark blue or black, with all models featuring a steel buckle with a classic pin clasp. Additional details include a case and bezel with alternating matte and polished surfaces.
Three Dial Options: Features and Differences
The Kubo collection is available in three lacquered dial options, all equipped with an additional small seconds subdial at the 4:30 position.
- Tetsukon (dark blue dial) - adorned with applied, satin-finished Arabic numerals in Breguet style, white printed markers, and luminescent dots.
- Sakura (pink dial) - replaces the white printing with black and is complemented by a relief sakura flower motif on the subdial.
- Usuki (ivory) - features black applied numerals, dots, and corresponding printing.
In all models, the hour and minute hands are syringe-shaped and filled with lume for improved readability in the dark.
Miyota 82S5 Movement: Technical Specifications and Features
The new Kiwame Tokyo models use a screw-down stainless steel case back with engraved brand logo, name, and technical data. Inside is the Miyota 82S5 automatic movement. Interestingly, this Japanese brand uses a movement produced by a competitor in the domestic market. In terms of technical parameters, the caliber offers a 42-hour power reserve at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz). The accuracy of the movement is not outstanding, but quite acceptable for watches in this price segment.
Availability and Price: Demand and Supply
The price of the Kiwame Tokyo Kubo model is 630 USD (excluding taxes). At the time of writing, all three models are sold out. Upon launch at the end of June, the first batch was sold out in minutes. However, there is no cause for concern - a second batch is expected in the middle of the month. Overall, this is a simple yet attractive novelty. The design resembles products from premium brands like Patek Philippe, which can be considered a positive aspect. At the same time, the price and positioning make Kubo a stand-alone and interesting offering.
Technical Specifications of Kiwame Tokyo Kubo Watches
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Dial | Pink (Sakura), dark blue (Tetsukon), ivory (Usuki) with applied Arabic numerals, printed minute markers, and recessed sub-seconds dial |
| Case Material | 316L Stainless Steel |
| Case Dimensions | 37 mm (diameter) × 45 mm (lug-to-lug) × 10.7 mm (thickness with crystal), 9.3 mm without crystal |
| Crystal | Domed sapphire with internal anti-reflective coating |
| Case Back | Screw-down, 316L stainless steel |
| Movement | Miyota 82S5: automatic with manual winding and hacking seconds, frequency 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz), 42-hour power reserve, accuracy -20/+40 seconds per day |
| Water Resistance | 3 atm (30 meters) |
| Strap | Black or blue calfskin (20/16 mm) with quick-release spring bars and steel buckle with classic pin clasp |
| Functions | Time only (hours, minutes, small seconds) |