Watch OEM MOQ Explained: A Pro’s Guide to Minimum Order Quantities
“I want to launch my own watch brand—one that reflects my unique vision!”
When you’re driven by that kind of passion, one of the first and most daunting obstacles you’ll face is the wall of “Minimum Order Quantity,” or MOQ.
Perhaps these thoughts sound familiar:
“Do I have to order hundreds or thousands of watches just to get started?”
“I’m just starting out. I can’t afford the risk of holding that much inventory.”
“I just want to start with a small test batch. Is that even a conversation I can have?”
If so, you’re not alone. These are the exact concerns that can stop a dream in its tracks.
In this article, we at Tokiji—as professionals in watch OEM—are here to shed some light on a topic crucial for small brands and startups: the reality of small-batch watch production.
What Exactly is an MOQ?
MOQ stands for “Minimum Order Quantity.” Think of it as the baseline quantity a manufacturer needs to produce in a single run. It’s not an arbitrary number; it’s a practical necessity. To secure competitive pricing on high-quality components and cover the costs of setting up a production line, manufacturers need to guarantee a certain volume. This is why an MOQ is a standard part of the OEM process.
A Look at Typical MOQs for Key Watch Components
| Component | MOQ | Notes |
| Case | 300+ pcs | Includes bezel, case back, crystal, and crown. |
| Dial | 50+ pcs | Per color |
| Hands | 100+ sets | Per shape and color |
| Strap & Buckle | 100+ sets | Per color. MOQs can vary depending on the material |
Navigating the MOQ: Your Questions Answered
- “I understand the 300-unit MOQ, but holding that much inventory at once is a challenge for my cash flow and storage space. Is it possible to split the order, like receiving 100 units first and the rest later?”
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That’s a very common and understandable concern. The 300-unit quantity is the minimum for a single production order, which allows us to secure all the necessary components and optimize the manufacturing process efficiently. This means we do need to proceed with procuring and producing the full 300 units.
However, we offer flexible solutions for delivery. For instance, we can store your completed watches in our secure facility and ship them to you in batches—say, 100 units at a time—according to your sales schedule. This service is called “split delivery.”
Please note that extended storage or multiple shipments may involve additional fees. The best first step is to share your ideal sales plan with us so we can create the most cost-effective and supportive plan together.
- “My budget is tight, so I need to keep costs as low as possible for a 300-unit order. But I don’t want to compromise on design. What are my options for adjusting specs to lower the price?”
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Balancing budget and design is at the heart of launching a successful brand, and we specialize in helping our clients achieve exactly that. We excel at finding creative solutions that honor your design vision while respecting your budget.
The three main factors that impact cost are: 1) the movement, 2) the case and dial materials and finishing, and 3) the strap.
For example, we can explore options such as:
- Switching from a Swiss mechanical movement to a highly reliable Japanese quartz movement.
- Refining a complex case design into a more streamlined, but equally elegant, shape that requires less machine time.
- Choosing a high-quality stainless steel or nylon strap instead of a genuine leather one.
These adjustments allow us to optimize the cost while maintaining exceptional quality.
Tell us what’s non-negotiable for your brand, and where you might have flexibility. We’ll leverage the advantages of a 300-unit production run to deliver the best possible value.
- “If I successfully sell all 300 watches and want to reorder the same design, are there any benefits? Will the price or delivery time be different?”
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That’s a great question, and yes, there are significant advantages when you place a repeat order.
First, because the molds and technical designs from the initial run are already created, the one-time initial setup costs are eliminated. This directly translates to a lower unit price on your second order.
Second, the entire process is much faster. Since the design and specifications are already approved, we can move directly to component procurement and production. This dramatically shortens the lead time compared to your first order.
Think of your initial 300-unit order as a strategic investment in your brand’s future. It establishes a foundation that makes growing your business faster and more efficient down the line. We are here to be your long-term partner, supporting your brand’s growth every step of the way.
Conclusion
An MOQ is the cornerstone of a stable, high-quality production line; inconsistent, very small batches can compromise both the manufacturing environment and the final product. But it doesn’t have to be a rigid barrier. We promise to work with you to establish a production schedule that aligns with your goals, ensuring a smooth and successful launch.
Contact Us
If you’re considering OEM watch manufacturing or need design guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professional team at Tokiji, your specialists in Japanese watchmaking.
Through a personal consultation, we’ll help you determine the best manufacturing approach and quantity for your unique brand.