KUOE KYOTO — Local services in Kyoto

Very disappointing, both product and customer service. I was really looking forward to buying this watch after all the positive reviews online. I bought the Old Smith 90-002 model with the navy Italian leather strap and to be fair; it looks quite stunning (although I knew it is a bit overpriced compared to more mainstream brands like Seiko). Almost instantly I experienced problems with the timing, as it was 10 minutes ahead of the actual time after more or less ten days. Also the navy leather strap pretty much changed the color within the first week to a much darker, almost black, color. They would'nt replace the leather strap as this could happen to them according to 'aging'. I left my watch there to be repaired with regards to the timing and got it back within 2 weeks in my own country where they said it was 'regulated', whilst adding an invoice in the attachment. I would have just accepted it, if only the watch was actually working. Although the timing was less bad, it is still running way too fast. After contacting them again they e-mailed me: 'The watch has a specified range of -20~+40 seconds per day. It may exceed this range if it suffers a strong impact or shock, or if exposed to high amounts of magnetism. Extreme exposure can even magnetize parts of the movement itself, compromising its accuracy. (...) Since you previously had issues with this movement, if you cover shipping to us, we can regulate your movement for you at no charge, but we can not guarantee our regulation will still hold after being returned to you due to the above factors.' I have been very careful with the watch and was very careful where I put it. I live in the Netherlands so weather conditions were definitely not extreme in the past months. I completely lost faith in them actually repairing it, so I will just accept my loss. So in summary: maybe you are more lucky then me with this brand but definitely gonna avoid it...

Just stopped by the Kuoe boutique yesterday while on vacation in Kyoto, and have to say I was pleasantly surprised. For context, I have a pretty extensive collection of high end and vintage watches, so a sub-$500 piece isn’t something I’d normally be on the hunt for… however, I keep hearing about this brand, and felt like I had to at least check out their shop while I was in town. Really glad I did!

Although small, the shop has the look and feel of a high end boutique, and the service reps were all very accommodating. I tried on several models, including a number of different strap combinations on each.

For me, the 90-002 field watch is the model they really nailed. I initially gravitated towards the larger, 38mm case, but ended up walking out with two (2) of the more period correct 35mm pieces (both no-date variations). I got a black dial, as it most closely resembles the original RAF watches the model is patterned after, but I also got a blue dial, because it just looks fantastic, and is an awesome modern spin on the historic design.

Again, I wouldn’t normally buy a watch like this, but it just felt like such a good value for money that I couldn’t pass it up. When you factor in tax free, plus the two (2) straps and watch roll that are included in the base purchase price, it just felt like a no brainer. I know I would’ve regretted walking out without making a purchase, so I’m really glad I did. Definitely check out this store if you’re in the area—you...

I wanted to share with you all an exceptional experience I recently had in Kyoto. While exploring the heart of this incredible city, nestled on a small second floor office and workshop, it's a place where time seems to stand still (no pun intended!).

I had my eyes on the "Old Smith 90-001" model - a timepiece that effortlessly marries the old-world charm with modern sophistication. The first thing that caught my attention were the stunning blue hands of the watch, contrasting beautifully against the backdrop of italic numbers. It came with a black band, and I purchased an additional brown band as well.

What stood out about Kuoe was not just the exquisite craftsmanship of their watches, but the exceptional service from their staff. They were very kind, polite, and attentive, adding a personal touch to the whole experience. I felt more like an esteemed guest rather than a customer, which is a rare and wonderful feeling.

From the moment I walked up the narrow staircase to the moment I left, holding my new possession, I was enveloped in the warm, personal, and professional atmosphere that Kuoe embodies. I left not just with a watch, but with a unique memento of Kyoto and a story to tell.

If you ever find yourself in Kyoto, I highly recommend...