Cities and their development have been central to horology history for some time now. For example, we’ve discussed Coventry’s rise and fall and the demographic shift in Geneva due to the Reformation, two cases of cities that have had outsized impacts on the world of watches. Others around Europe, like Glashütte and Paris, are also of note. Over in Japan, Tokyo has emerged as the leading city for the watch industry in the country, but that wasn’t without fearsome competition from cities like Osaka and Nagoya; Nagoya being the leading watch-city until the 20th century. Within Tokyo, there is one neighbourhood in particular that has led the way in regards to the luxury goods sector as a whole: Ginza. Ginza, today, is a vibrant neighbourhood and an internationally recognized shopping district – but in a city of tens of millions of people, how did Ginza come to be the ‘go to’?
The town of Shin-ryogae-cho came to be known by locals as ‘Ginza’ during the Edo period in Japan (specifically in the early 17th century). The name Ginza came from a silver mint that was established in the town. The business of minting silver coins was very lucrative and the name Ginza remained even after the mint was moved. At the time, the area was also inhabited by other artisans specialized in gold and other crafts, Shuza (cinnabar) and Obanza (gold coin minting) were particularly popular.
The area fell somewhat into decay throughout the following century, only regaining its prominence after the great fire of 1872. After the fire wrecked the area, the Meiji government rebuilt the district following Western-inspired design. This marked the beginning of the modern Ginza that would see specialist stores line the streets.
Ginza Wako Clock Tower
After the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, however, prospects looked bleak for the once bustling area; it was completely destroyed this time. Once again, the government stepped in and financed the reconstruction of the area. An area that is today home to the most expensive real estate in Japan.
Apart from being the traditional upscale shopping district of Tokyo, which includes having several renowned jewelers and watch boutiques. Ginza is specifically known for being home to Kintaro Hattori’s first store, in 1881. This store would go on to become Seiko as we know it today. Other watch companies and dealers were also stationed in the area since the late 20th century. Another, perhaps less popular connection to watch history, is the Ginza Wako Clock Tower. Wako is a department store housed inside the K. Hattori building, including a clock tower, completed in 1932. Previously, the site was home to the Hattori Clock Tower, which was demolished in 1921. Today the Ginza Wako clock tower is both a symbol of the district and of its past connection to horology.
Ultimately, although not on the same wave length as Geneva and Paris in terms of watchmaking history, Tokyo – Ginza in particular – certainly has its own story to tell as far as watchmaking and general craftsmanship and luxury goes.