Since the defeat in World War 2 in 1945, Japan has slowly begun to rise from adversity. Japan reorganized modern industrial buildings for the country's welfare and its people's prosperity. Until now, technology and industry have significantly influenced economic growth and development in Japan. With the combination of Research & Development (R&D), Japan has become one of the developed countries in science and technology.
In line with technological advances, the Land of Sakura also adheres to a philosophy called “Monozukuri”. This term literally means "Creating something ". However, “Monozukuri” means more than just creating things. “Monozukuri” intended to create pieces that are truly the best quality to satisfy users and the desires of the creator.
Since ancient times, Japan has had a proud tradition in which craftsmen care deeply about making the best quality products. For the craftsmen, this is called art. There is no endpoint. In fact, they continue to improve, perfected, and hone their abilities until death. This culture has been continuously passed down by various Japanese industries for generations.
Japan is not rich in natural resources. Because of this condition, Japan never exports natural resources. Instead, Japan builds industry, develops quality products appreciated by the world, and then ships them. From this sector, Japan becomes one of the countries with a high income.
“Monozukuri” became the backdrop for the progress of the Japanese manufacturing industry. In this sector, everyone works together to ensure the successful development of new products and technologies. The company also provides active attention and coaching for every employee and workforce. This strategy combined with the familial environment, creating a solid bond. A sense of brotherhood.
In addition to “Monozukuri”, ethics and discipline are crucial for Japanese people. They need to complete the work under the agreement where the work must be submitted. So they always say that the work must be completed on time. Thanks to that, the construction of large projects for community services can be completed ahead of the scheduled time.
Regarding the attitude of Japanese people towards work, perseverance and the importance of punctuality are the pillars of the high quality and level of trust in Japanese products. This Japanese culture and tradition have significantly contributed to the formation of its human character.
The punctuality and disciplined characters of Japanese people can also be seen in the high-quality watches they have crafted. Switzerland may be the original watchmaking powerhouse, but Japan has built an equally outstanding horological sector. Whilst the Swiss have perfected their traditional abilities to manufacture the world's most exquisite watches, the Japanese have embraced technological innovation to create the most practical ones. Citizen, Seiko, Orient, and G-Shock are at the vanguard of Japan's rapidly expanding watch industry. Out of Japan comes an extraordinary supply of highly efficient designs with quartz or mechanical movements and intelligent features.
The difference between Swiss and Japanese movements is, to a large extent, that Swiss movements are usually designed more aesthetically, whereas Japanese movements are built more with precision and accuracy in mind. Both are used to power all types of watches and are used by many watchmakers worldwide.
Japanese movement is produced a little differently, mainly in automated robotics, but this allows for a much lower error rate than by eye alone. While not much detail is put into most movements, the slightly more "raw" look of purely mechanical parts appeals to many. Due to the nature of the assembly, the price of the Japanese movement is often lower than in Switzerland. However, this is by no means a sign of inferior quality. Even many countries have looked to Japan when setting benchmarks for innovation, design, and craftsmanship for watches. Even the "Made in Japan" label only can become an assurance of a product's quality. That is possible due to Japan's long tradition of prioritizing craftsmanship to produce high-quality products that combine beauty and functionality.
REFERENCES
Brewer, T. Ten Best Japanese Watches for Men. Retrieved from https://www.thetrendspotter.net/best-japanese-watches/
Saito, K., Salazar, A.J., Kreafle, K.G., and Grulke, E.A. (2011). Hitozukuri and Monozukuri: Centuries’ Old Eastern Philosophy to Seek Harmony with Nature. Interdisciplinary Information Sciences, 17(1), 1-9.
Tan. A. (2018). Why “Made in Japan” Products are Synonymous with Good Design and Quality. Retrieved from https://www.buro247.my/lifestyle/technology/made-in-japan-products-good-design-quality.html
Photo by Alex Knight on Unsplash