Finding the Best Value Watch in Japan
In my previous article I discussed the reasons why you should avoid Nakano Broadway. Today I am going to discuss why you should head to Japan if you’re on the hunt.
Today marks the 6th day after COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization. It will be quite some time before international air travel normalizes, but until then you could plan your next trip in the comfort of self-isolation and the internet. If you’re willing to take the risk for a perceived discounted fare, I hope your wings don’t burn off when it gets too close to the Corona.
Only got 20 dollars in your pocket?
I won’t specify where you should specifically go because doing so will render this advice inconsequential. That being said, I will direct you to the pre-owned/used stores that litter the Tokyo prefecture. If you’re in the market for a pre-owned or vintage piece, you should try to find these watches in pre-owned/used stores in Japan. The level of prices that these watches are sitting at for the most part reflect the domestic market demand in Japan. Smaller shops who neither deal online nor deal with foreigners list their items for much lower prices compared to tourist traps like Nakano Broadway. If you are able to overcome the barrier to entry (which is communication), you’re able to avoid the price premium that comes when competing with global demand.
If you don’t speak the native tongue, I highly advise that you to have a companion that can speak Japanese because without them you might find yourself to be out of luck.
Japan Only Limited Editions and Releases
If you’re not interested in pre-owned time pieces, Japan has a plethora of department stores or “Camera Stores” that also sell new models of Citizen, Seiko, Casio, Timex and other unique fashion brands you won’t find at your local mall.
Here’s your chance to buy that limited edition Seiko Tuna that was only sold in Japan, or that G-shock only released in the Japanese domestic market. Many Swiss manufacturers like Omega also have limited “Japan Only,” releases from time to time. Avoid the hassle and the inflated prices of buying through third party online venders, spend that money on some Asahi or One Cup and call it a day.
Free Admission
Honestly, if by now you haven’t realized my self-contradicting nature, you’ll see that my articles are shades of red, green and colorblind. If you’ve ever wanted to try on a $40,000 USD nautilus, or hold a $100,000 USD Daytona, then honestly it’s a must that you visit Nakano Broadway. They won’t charge you an entrance fee to walk through this glorious horological brothel. You can definitely touch, but aren’t required to buy. It’s your chance to try your grail watch on, and decide whether it is just infatuation, or if it truly does feel like the right next purchase.
