The Interview World

Miyota, a distinguished Japanese watch movement manufacturer, was founded in 1959 in Miyota, Nagano Prefecture. A subsidiary of Citizen Watch Manufacturing Co. Ltd., the company has been providing top-tier mechanical and quartz movements, including its innovative solar quartz movement, to global watch brands since the 1980s. Over the years, Miyota has earned a reputation for excellence, with its movements powering renowned brands such as Timex, Casio, Bulova, MVMT, and Skagen.

Miyota offers a broad array of watch movements tailored to meet diverse design and functionality needs. Their product range includes standard, slim, small, and multi-function movements, as well as chronograph and automatic models. The company also excels in crafting premium automatic movements, known for their exceptional precision and craftsmanship. Additionally, Miyota’s solar quartz movements harness light energy, underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainability. This extensive portfolio has positioned Miyota as a leading supplier of reliable and innovative movements for watch brands worldwide.

Through relentless innovation and a steadfast commitment to quality, Miyota continues to play a crucial role in the watchmaking industry, earning the trust of both brands and watch enthusiasts.

In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World, Darshan Vani, Tech Consultant at Miyota, delves into the company’s solar quartz movement technology and its ongoing advancements. He shares insights on product pricing, outlines strategies for manufacturing excellence, and discusses the company’s focus on continuous innovation and sustainability. Here are the key takeaways from his conversation.  

Q: What is Miyota’s solar quartz movement technology, and how does it function in watches?

A: Solar technology offers a sustainable solution to reducing the waste caused by coin batteries. Our technology converts not only sunlight but also dim indoor light into electrical energy, powering watches with eco-friendly efficiency. This eliminates the need for battery replacements, making it an environmentally conscious choice. Additionally, it is compatible with metal dials, offering greater design flexibility and freedom.

For instance, our 2170 Solar Quartz watch operates for up to four months on a full charge, with a movement accuracy of +/- 20 seconds. While the demand for solar quartz movements has yet to fully gain traction, we are actively working to promote their benefits and encourage adoption among our customers.

Q: What advancements can we expect in quartz movement technology, and how will it shape the future of timekeeping?

A: The future of quartz movement technology is defined by precision, sustainability, and intelligent integration. Solar-powered movements, such as Miyota’s solar quartz movement, eliminate the need for battery replacements, offering a sustainable alternative. Innovations in energy efficiency and the use of eco-friendly materials will further reduce the environmental footprint of quartz watches. As technology evolves, quartz movements will not only deliver enhanced accuracy and sustainability but also integrate seamlessly with smart features, redefining the role of quartz timepieces in modern horology.

In Japan, solar quartz watches have gained significant popularity. With growing awareness of their benefits, there is hope that this movement will gain global traction, following the trend set in Japan.

Q: What is the price of this product? How does it compare to similar products in terms of cost—is it more expensive, or is it priced within the usual range?

A: The cost of our products is determined by the pricing set by Miyota’s Indian distributor. Since we have a distributor in India, the final price depends on their rates. Naturally, the price of the solar quartz movement is slightly higher than that of a standard quartz movement, reflecting its advanced technology and sustainability features.

Q: What strategies and processes do you implement to achieve and maintain manufacturing excellence?

A: Miyota’s dedication to excellence permeates every aspect of its manufacturing processes. The company upholds stringent quality control standards, leveraging cutting-edge technology to guarantee precision and reliability. In 2016, Miyota bolstered its production capacity by inaugurating a state-of-the-art movement assembly factory in Saku, Nagano Prefecture, reinforcing its position as a dominant force in the watch movement industry.

Q: Can you share insights into Miyota’s approach to fostering continuous innovation and staying ahead in the industry?

A: Miyota’s success is driven by its unwavering commitment to technological innovation. The company has introduced groundbreaking advancements, such as the Power Engine series, which significantly boosts precision, energy efficiency, and design flexibility. Its cutting-edge solar technology enables watches to convert light into electrical energy, reducing reliance on conventional batteries. Furthermore, Miyota’s in-house Parashock system safeguards mechanical movements from impacts, ensuring enhanced durability. The company also employs proprietary AO-Oil and AO-Grease, which offer exceptional corrosion resistance and extended longevity, further amplifying the lifespan of its movements.

Q: How do you incorporate sustainability principles into your manufacturing process to ensure environmental efficiency?

A: Sustainability is central to Miyota’s ethos. The company actively incorporates eco-friendly practices into its manufacturing processes. Its adoption of solar technology stands as a clear testament to its dedication to minimizing environmental impact.

Q: Could you elaborate on some of Miyota’s most notable movements and what sets them apart in the industry?

A: Miyota’s portfolio boasts several standout movements, with the Miyota 8215 being among the most notable. This widely acclaimed 21-jewel automatic movement features a three-hand display with a date function. Operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz), it delivers a power reserve exceeding 40 hours. Another flagship offering is the Miyota 9015, a 24-jewel premium automatic movement renowned for its slim profile and exceptional accuracy. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), it includes a hacking feature and provides a power reserve of around 42 hours. This makes the 9015 a preferred choice for numerous high-end watch brands.

Miyota’s Solar Quartz Movement - Paving the Way for Sustainable, High-Performance Watches
Miyota’s Solar Quartz Movement – Paving the Way for Sustainable, High-Performance Watches

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