ŌTSUKA LŌTEC

ŌTSUKA LŌTEC is an independent Japanese watch brand founded by Jiro Katayama, an industrial and automotive designer who taught himself watchmaking after purchasing a small lathe. Based in Tokyo, the brand is known for its unconventional mechanical displays, industrial aesthetic, and extremely limited production.

Katayama began experimenting with watch cases around 2008 and started selling his watches publicly in 2012. His designs draw inspiration from vintage film cameras, industrial instruments, gauges, machinery, and automotive design rather than traditional Swiss watchmaking.

The name Ōtsuka Lōtec combines Ōtsuka, the Tokyo neighborhood where Katayama's workshop is located, with “Lōtec,” inspired by his appreciation for low-tech, mechanical objects.

Founder – Jiro Katayama

Jiro Katayama is the founder, designer, and independent watchmaker behind Ōtsuka Lōtec. He originally worked in automotive design before becoming a freelance product designer. His work included automobiles, helmets, and household products.

His transition into watchmaking began when he purchased a bench lathe through an online auction. Fascinated by machining, he initially experimented with producing watch cases and gradually taught himself the fundamentals of watchmaking through books and online resources.

Katayama's self-taught background is central to Ōtsuka Lōtec's identity. His watches often look more like industrial instruments or precision machinery than conventional wristwatches.