Japan's Newest Attainable Watch Brand

Shop Some Of The Best Japanese Watches Under $1,000 Here: teddybaldassarre.com/collecti...
Shop Watches: teddybaldassarre.com/
Written Content: www.teddybaldassarre.com/blog
Subscribe To Our Newsletter For The Latest Watch Releases, & Special Offers In Our Shop: teddybaldassarre.com/?email=s...
In this video, we take an in-depth look at a newer brand from Japan, Kuoe. Founded just a few years ago, Kuoe has quickly grown into a legitimate brand offering entry-level pricing on well-made watches carrying a vintage aesthetic and classic wearing dimensions. Focusing on its two pillar collection, we discuss just what the brand has to offer!
Instagram: teddybaldas...
Top Articles On TeddyBaldassarre.com:
50 Luxury Watch Brands You Should Know: teddybaldassarre.com/blogs/wa...
10 Affordable Watch Brands And Their Best Watches: teddybaldassarre.com/blogs/wa...
Best Watches Under $5,000 Complete Guide: teddybaldassarre.com/blogs/wa...
Timestamps
0:00 Intro
0:40 Brand History
2:45 Case & Wearing
4:20 Dial Design
6:00 Movement
7:15 Final Thoughts

[@_abradley_6344]

I stumbled into their Kyoto offices by accident a couple years ago while looking through watch stores for a gift. I had never heard of them and when I walked in just before closing, they asked if I had a reservation. I told them no, but they went ahead and let me into the workshop/showroom. The attendant was extremely helpful and super knowledgeable about the products. It felt like the kind of workspace you'd want to spend your life in if you were a craftsman. I was really blown away by the fit and finish of the watches as I had been shopping for vintage Seiko's and Grand Seiko's while in Japan. For the price you pay, I think they're well worth the price and you get to support a smaller brand in the process! When I get back to Kyoto, I'll think I'll gift one to myself next time haha

[@condoreo37]

Been seeing Kuoe's ads online for a bit, good to see a proper look at what they're all about

[@Nintendomasterw]

Was seeing Teddy B. liking those same posts. The watches looked classy and classic

[@Ent13111]

I bought the OLD SMITH 90-009 recently. I love it!

[@myboyt]

Same

[@electricburning]

same

[@user-mh9zx9mk7o]

This is why I like this channel, always looking out and introducing new brands that I can't seem to find otherwise.

[@johnp3971]

I love when you highlight small brands because I don't have the time to research and find them. So, your videos help put them on my radar!

[@WatchesCanBeFun]

Whoever is responsible for getting the photography, it looks like the quality has gotten even better(which I didn’t even think was possible) Congrats on 1 million subs.

[@saptarishipandey4012]

agreed! The hand focused macro shots are so pleasing to watch

[@midgedork]

Picked up a kuoe as well as a GS this past winter while in kyoto and tokyo respectively. I love wearing my kuoe as much as my GS! Stop by the boutique if you are in kyoto.

[@rafficrashid867]

More of these kinds of reviews please Teddy. We learn more this way. Thank you.

[@techpassion4126]

Omg Im so glad you're covering this! Been a fan of Kuoe ever since I saw their Royal Smith pop up in my Yotube feed a while back, looking forward to seeing your take on it!

[@nicsamazingpinballchannel7688]

Ahhhhh Kuoe! Finally. I've cycled through 100+ watches in my collection, but the 90-002 Old Smith 36mm green field watch is still here and still among the favorites. It wears perfectly on my 7.1" wrist, is wonderfully legible, and is even better on an old classic beads style bracelet.

[@shirishpanwalkar]

Thanks for covering this unique and niche brand! Loved their designs.

[@StandAloneState]

Thank you for covering KUOE Teddy! I asked you to do this for future content and feel like you personally heard my request. Also congratulations on 1 million subs!!

[@chrislyall6251]

Well done Teddy, kuoe is one of many Japanese watches i really think will be massive in the coming years if not already. Thank you for the exposure its well overdue.

[@Tractorman-xj4gt]

Kuoe caught my eye as well a while back - thanks for shining the spotlight on them !!

[@user-fd1kk4cr8m]

Love this kind of content and delighted to see someone of your stature and reach covering brands like Kuoe. Thanks.

[@kinslowrainer3982]

I've been looking for a more modestly sized dress watch for a while, and Kuoe had caught my eye. Glad to see a little bit of information on them. Keep it up!

[@stephengassner4478]

Teddy! Thanks for this video, was hoping you’d drop an overview of Kuoe. I always learn so much from you. As always, so appreciative of everything you do!

[@mvseaurchin7455]

The Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 with date uses a Seiko NH35. We missed visiting the Kuoe workshop when in Kyoto, but I bought one when in Osaka during our trip. It's a nice momento for my wife and me to share.

[@yasouss]

I learned about this brand from your channel! thank you for bringing attention to it. More videos like this are really appreciated .

[@antonioraffa123]

Well done, Teddy. A nice generous review.

[@SinnerAndSaint]

Thanks for showing, Teddy! Yes please, anytime. If you hear something fresh and new and are able to get your hands on, keep it coming!

[@shinokuchiki7761]

I've been waiting for this for ages!

[@Marshell99]

They exist for 4 years and startet in the same Age as We live in but i get the Point 😂😂

[@jamesbyrontaduran3738]

Thank you for featuring KUOE! My next dress piece ❤

[@rangorango7545]

i like this, classy looks, a reminder that mainstream brands are not always on or have to be on your radar, thanks teddy

[@danielsimon8735]

I genuinely thought my Kuoe would be too small on my 7.5" wrist but could not resist ordering one. As it turns out, it looks great, fits great and IS great. Cannot recommend these watches highly enough!

[@johnstyron6543]

Ditto that! My Royal Smith is a perfect fit!!

[@user-og5xj6hj9s]

Can any of you kuoe owners with larger wrists show pictures of the watch on your wrist? I’m curious to see how that looks. Thanks.

[@Marshell99]

@@user-og5xj6hj9sjust buy the 38mm version then

[@Tikkaspecial]

Too small for 7" wrist IMO

[@danielsimon8735]

@@Tikkaspecial I would have agreed with you until I actually tried it on.

[@syedrehanfida]

Love to see new watch makers from Japan! Thank you Teddy for shining the light on this brand!

[@Mixt8pe]

Back when I first laid my eyes upon this brand I really fell in love with their watches. I particulary fell in love with their Royal Smith 90-006 model containing the silver bezel and the white waffle-dial. This particular model could be ordered as a backorder, since the watch itself was out of stock and the more I went on KUOE's website, staring at the same model over and over I finally came to the realization that it wasn't worth waiting for the watch to get back in stock in mid April just for the watch get be sold out once again and not purchasing one. So, I put my order in about nearly 2 months ago while also adding the saphire glas and a nice extra leather strap made out of Italian leather. I'm super happy about my purchase before even recieving the watch and I'm hoping that this microbrand really gets the recognition they truely deserve 😊

[@whorolledthis1567]

ive been looking heavily at Kuoe! glad to see some more info on them

[@Steve-vm1fi]

Favorite new brand and stoked to see Teddy cover them

[@allanbergsma3256]

Congrats on 1M Teddy!

[@oxocube5000]

OH MY GOD I am so happy to see this video. I have a Kuoe that I bought in late 2022 in Kyoto at their office. It was genuinely the best watch buying experience I've ever had and the story of the brand is so amazing. Thoroughly recommend this brand to anyone, I wear it all the time. So glad to see one of my favourite brands getting attention from one of my favourite creators.

[@Eayala17]

I was in Japan this week, and saw some of their ads in the subway. I never heard of it till the subway. Glad you made a video talking about them. I'm going to put in an order for a watch

[@pipeninja1578]

Thanks for the review. These watches look great. Love your channel, Teddy.

[@VMIyanks04]

Thank you for looking out for the little guys! Fantastic designs!

[@nedflanders3769]

Congrats on 1M subs, Teddy !!! Well deserved! ❤😊

[@timcheeseman2956]

I've been eyeing off that bronze case for a while now, I am sure it'll be joining my collection at some point

[@robbbbery]

Fantastic video! I'd absolutely love to see you do videos exploring the story and perspectives of other lesser-known brands, especially in that affordable price bracket.

[@chriswatchreviews4752]

This brand consistently shows up in my FB feed, and I have checked their website and really like their design language. Great review as always Teddy

[@jwilson1744]

I’ve been seeing ads for these recently, so good to hear your take. Also from Kyoto, there is KNIS too.

[@wesleywright1493]

Been looking forward to a review of this brand! Been following Kuoe for a while now!

[@Dario_Daniele]

Lovely watches indeed, will bear Kuoe in mind for the future! Thanks for sharing Teddy!

[@jimiemaley4512]

I have been waiting for a Kuoe video from you for a while! I love this type of content! I’m always looking for new brands to look at in the affordable range! Thanks for the great video and I’d love to see more content like this! (Don’t get me wrong. I love all of your content!)

[@randylaw3368]

Kyoto is a beautiful, historic city and Kuoe catures its character. Nice watches.

[@bcosVic]

Thank you for giving the brand a spotlight.

[@calvinhuynh4723]

I bought 2 last week after watching your previous video regarding Kuoe. One mechanic and one quart. Both arrived shipping quite fast. Beautiful watches in person, very good pricing.

[@ajay-xjs]

Nice designs, I like them. I've seen their ads recently so this review is timely.

[@pinefreshguy]

congrats on hitting 1 mil subs!!!

[@fjls69]

I was there less than two weeks ago. I fell for one of the bronze models, pulled the trigger and they asked me to wait as they assembled my watch. A very special retail experience!

[@davidcooper8390]

1M subscribers.....congrats Teddy!!!

[@RudyVisuals]

Thanks for giving this brand the attention it deserves!

[@dangermandave67]

Thanks very much for covering this brand. I'd love to see more videos about the more obscure yet established brands.

[@youSupaflyy]

Wait, just noticed this...1 million subs!! Congrats! Hoping to run into you at Watches and Wonders next weekend

[@deedsdecastro974]

Congratulations on reaching 1m subscribers 🎉

[@rhorto01]

I've seen their ads on Facebook for a while now, and I like the look. For dress watches I mostly wear vintage, but these are tempting.

[@chickenporkadob0]

happy to see this brand being recognized.

[@TheChilu90]

Happy to see more brands like this on the channel..

[@riknos3289]

I just got my first Kuoe last week, a ROYAL SMITH 90-008 in Silver / Silver. Very happy with my decision! The bracelet is very well finished and comfortable as well.

[@KalvinPatel]

did you get the bracelet adjusted?

[@richardnedbalek1968]

Thanks, Teddy! Love seeing quality alternatives. Nice pieces, nice prices. More on Kurono, Naoya Hida, Minase, Hajime Asaoka, and other small Japanese watch brands, please! 😁

[@BrianHolden-ix6hc]

Congrats on 1 Million!

[@BMW-wt4xs]

Please make more videos showing good smaller brands, it's good to know you don't take money from the watch companies

[@SH4D0W2011]

Thanks for covering this brand! I still can't decide between the bronze and the steel Old Smith.

[@JRudd]

Great find Teddy

[@alexcruzpr]

We want to see stuff like this. Thank you

[@jakegoulas1314]

Amazing video! The bronze case is so cool

[@maxinahunt8652]

I have the 90-002 in navy with no date. I love it. It’s my daily work watch.

[@martinw8635]

I know someone with one if these watches and it catches my eye. I enjoyed learning more about the brand!

[@tucsontim8841]

Beautiful! Well placed for success. I like the grainy dial.

[@oppositeofh8]

thanks for the education on kuoe, hadn't heard of them before -- but now i'm a fan.

[@ifesta1]

Congrats on hitting 1 Million subscribers Teddy.

[@shonen84]

Kuoe is great - thanks for the deep dive! Minase is another Japanese brand that’s an interesting one!

[@jonkeogh3160]

Been seeing these all over my Instagram feed lately. Nice looking watches but wasn't sure whether they were any good, so this video was really helpful!

[@user-hj5lw6jp9j]

Good video Teddy the best.💯👍

[@reezey-.-]

Love these kinds of videos

[@gunnystew7404]

I’d love to see more on the Mido watch brand. It seems to run under the radar. ❤ your content.

[@stephanweiskorn6760]

Excellent video 😊!

[@FWIWDept]

The Smith 002 was my first mechanical watch! I’ve branched out to the Seiko Alpinist line, but it still gets lots of wear and I’m planning to purchase a green dial version later this year.

[@AbdulRWatches]

Looks very cool, definitely love how it looks with that white dial and crown at 4.

[@jefespielrojas]

always good to know about new brands, if you can keep an eye we will appreciate it

[@mecha1383]

Thanks for the recommendation! I found my next watch

[@manuelfebri7443]

congrats on your 1M subs!🍻

[@zedsfed1619]

This time next week I will be picking up my first kuoe in kyoto!

[@nikkolomakaveli8295]

I really want to purchase a Kuoe so badly!!! Their annual calander they just dropped looks so nice to me and the dimensions are just perfect. I hope to see this brand grow and expand.

[@enginaksu1045]

Great one Teddy, many thanks. Could you also please cover kurono tokyo?

[@makototaniuchi1134]

I'm Japanese and I read sevaral articles （written in Japanese）about the founder, Uchimura Kenji. As a fact, he made this brand just for a DtoC business with using the name value of "Made in Japan." He understand how to sell watch for foreigners and what is intriguing for them. He made a store in "Kyoto" to sell the watches to foreigners who visit Japan. To me, as a Japanese, It's just sad that they use the name ,Kyoto, to sell "business-oriented" watches. Several (？) years ago, a name of a cheap watch brand, Daniel Wellington, spreads in Japan. Inside of the DW was Miyota caliber therefore it's not bad as cheap watches for daily use. But they are selling the watches with advertising that "the design is inspired from "Northern Europe design" or a fabricated "English man's vintage watch" (they change their story so I don't know what is true). It seems not to be worth buying at all. I feel the same scent from KUOE. To all of watch lovers, please be careful for Japanese microbrands. Please forgive my poor English.

[@AdAce21]

never heard of this brand, but that Old Smith Small Seconds is gorgeous! Thanks for bringing this brand to my attention

[@WriterandPhotographer]

Really like this brand. I have always complained that most brands offered only cases sizes that were too large. Then, many years ago, when my wedding was in Tokyo, my in-laws (former in-laws) bought me a very expensive Japanese watch. It was the first time that I ever wore a watch that was too small, although it was such a good watch, that I wore it daily. Now, this brand is producing what I see as the sweet spot for watch case size. Perfect compromise. Great looking dials also. Thanks for the introduction Teddy.

[@Yoshikaable]

Love it! 36 is probably my minimum but i understand they probably know their market. I like the royal Smith

[@joolski]

I bought an old smith 90-002 in green, and I was a little concerned when I got it out the box the 35mm case would be swamped on my wrist, but after a few days I realised that it fits perfectly and I kept just looking at the deep green dial. Just because.

[@jamesbyles7070]

Bought a Kuoe Holborn with the mesh bracelet for my wife early last year. I was very impressed with the quality of the watch.

[@miclucs]

I've had one for a few years now and I very happy with it. Looks great and I like the smaller size.

[@noegarcia5246]

I love Kuoe, I have their Old Smith 90-001 and its awesome.

[@zwzlife7394]

I just bought a ROYAL SMITH 90-008 from them few weeks ago. Good product.

[@lucasl.righetto8853]

Beautiful. Think i saw it before on Watchfinder .

[@delonteeast7955]

The new 90-010 needs a review!!!

[@RobinsWatchJourney]

I see them a lot on social media and every new release looks better than the one before. Definitely going to pick one up.

[@curtbrown7718]

Nice pieces! It will be interesting to watch this company and its models as it matures.

[@theshadowman1398]

Looking to purchase the Royal Smith later this year

[@TimRobertsen]

Sweet watches! Please make more content like this:)

[@gregbauman9710]

Hey Teddy, thanks for the great vid on Kuoe. It reminded me to check them out as they are only a 10 block walk from where I live in Kyoto part of the year (the other part 40 minutes to the west of your new store). Anyhow, I took a walk over there, met Kenji and his super ace assistant watchmaker Hinako and ended up buying a mega cool navy blue dial Old Smith with a beads of rice bracelet and totally digging it. I think Kenji would love to discuss representation with you. I'm back in US end of next week and will drop his card off at your store next time I get by there. BTW, I totally enjoyed the GS vid!

[@mdunawaym]

I watched this on my girlfriend's iPad, but couldn't wait to get home to say how much I love mine! I got the Old Smith field automatic! I got the black dial, bronze, with that same strap. Gorgeous! Definitely not my last Kuoe.

[@108u9]

7:29 @Teddy Baldassarre which Orient model is this? Thank you