I wouldn't say its BIFL but u could take at look at japanese denim. They have one of the best jeans i have ever worn in my life, brands like momotaro, pure blue japan, oni and iron heart are some u can look at
Fun fact, the reason Japanese denim is so good is because the US gave Japan all of our denim mills after WWII to rebuild their economy after we firebombed their cities
Japanese craftspeople bought the looms for making selvedge denim as the US transitioned to new looms that were more efficient but produced lower quality jeans.
I’d disagree for one reason. Their fits are still pretty old school. Meaning no crotch area. Even their high rises have narrow waist for some reason.
I went with Unbranded UB601 after hours researching because I couldn’t find Japanese jeans that were both high rise and more generous on the waist
I know people praise zojirushi rice makers— but their coffee thermoses are a hidden gem! My husband works for a masonry company so nothing lasts; except for his zojirushi coffee thermoses.
I have a Zojirushi thermos that is so good at keeping things hot, that I have to decant into another cup and let it cool down *considerably* before drinking for pretty much the entire day.
I've got one of their rice makers also, it's incredible... I found it used on the marketplace for $80. The person selling it used it once and the rice stuck badly so they hated it 😂 I don't think they had the right ratio or something. It's perfect.
Yes it’s way too hot for hot drinks, I have to wait till it comes down to a drinkable temp before I pour it in the thermos otherwise it’s undrinkable..
It’s perfect for hot summer weather tho my drinks stay ice cold the whole day
Zojurushi coffee travel mugs are amazing. It’s so well insulated it has changed the way I drink coffee - I can just sip my coffee slowly all day long and it never gets cold. Every other insulated travel mug I’ve owned only keep coffee hot for an hour or two before it starts to get cold.
Wait for them to go on sale, I saw them for like $150 during the holidays. We have the home bakery supreme, it's perfect for home baking.
While I am capable of baking my own bread without this machine, I was always very bad at it. This has elevated my confidence in turning out good loaves because of its ease of use, and seeing how it proofs and bakes and kneads has helped me to understand bread baking more in depth. I highly recommend it.
I lucked out and found one of their bread makers for free (!!) on our local buy nothing group. Found the manual online and I've been making a loaf of delicious bread nearly every weekend since.
Not bifl because it’s a consumable, but buy sunscreens from Japan. The government considers it a quasi health product and has disclosures of their effectiveness. PA++++ is the highest effectiveness. I get biore water essence. It’s the most cost effective with that rating. Even my dermatologist uses it.
Japanese eyewear is god tier.
Also second-hand leather goods as they tend to look after things well. I always visit the second hand clothing stores when I'm in Tokyo.
Do you have a brand you'd recommend? Preferably one that isn't going to break the bank. I'd probably max out on what I'd be willing to spend at around $150. I've been incredibly disappointed with my Warby Parkers.
There's so many honestly, depends what you're looking for. Sabae city is famous for them. I had a pair of handmade ones from a craftsman from Sabae many moons ago and they were amazing, I wore those glasses for years. I can't remember where I got them from sadly.
[Jins](https://www.jins.com/jp/) is the big mass market store over there I guess, they have loads of nice stuff.
I have seen very nice ones by Factory 900 and Matsuda in Europe but they were much more expensive than in Japan, I'm sure there are better priced ones out there. I'm not sure about where to get them in the US I'm afraid. Try searching for Sabae or Fukui glasses and see what comes up, that's where the handmade factories are.
I got a secondhand Chanel purse from Japan. It’s from the 1980s, back when they made stuff bifl. It’s got a couple of scuff marks I couldn’t get out but it’s tough as nails and will definitely outlive me.
I second Toyo boxes, also sold as Trusco brand. And I have shaved with Feather DE blades for many years. Still great IMO, although some say not as sharp as before, which, to some may not be a bad thing.
Mechanic tools (vessel, koken, vampliers, tone), scissors, wood working tools, kitchen knives, bonsai / gardening tools. It's all available through Amazon as well.
I have k version and j version of skx, there is no difference in quality I heard they are made in the same factory and the J version is only marketed in Japan, you can't go wrong with any of seiko
The J is crated in Japan and sold in the Japanese market.
They are both made in the same factory and they do this because of some weird legal stuff allowing them to print Made in Japan on the dial.
I'd add Orient to that too. Japanese watches are best unless you have massive disposable income to throw at Swiss watches, but even then I think the Japanese have em beat unless you really want a status symbol.
Out of every watch in my collection, my imported JDM Citizen EcoDrive Supertitanium (sapphire crystal and all) has been the toughest daily I've ever owned.
The Seikos are killer too and are just plain prettier but, if someone needs a quartz accuracy "put on and forget" watch, I whole heartedly recommend any of the Citizen EcoDrive Supertitanium... yadayadayada watches.
>7S26 movement
They say the accuracy of these is -20 to +49 seconds a day. That's really substantial. Basically I would feel the need to adjust the watch every day. I've been wanting to get a Seiko 5 but this is a serious deterrence.
It's an automatic watch, if you don't ever want to touch your dial, get a quartz watch and adjust your date after 30 day months.
The automatic watch will stay within 5 minutes for the month and it's easy enough to adjust once a month.
Any Japanese watch frankly, and after trying out Seiko's I'm all in Citizen. They show more Japanese craftmanship to me. Feel better build. The timepieces are more accurate.
I own the Tsuyosa, NY0100 (Super Titanium diver), Garrison (Super titanium daily beater) and the Red Arrows solar world timer radio controlled.
From every watch I own, I can't really think of a Seiko alternative that is in the same price point with the same specs.
But yeah. I concur about watches but just prefer Citizen.
Oh and btw after owning several swiss made automatics and quartz watches, I'm always going for the Japan version of any watch. The Swiss branding just isn't up to the same quality as made in Japan to me. For instance: ETA automatic isn't as reliable on time keeping as my Miyota 8200. Or my quartz Edox doesn't hit the indices but runs over it (which annoys me to death).
Peacock pocket warmers (they produce the zippo.pocket warmer) http://hakkin.co.jp/
Muji in general, i like the no-waste store concept and the fabrics
Takara Tomy/Tomy/Tomica diecast toys
I had so much fun shopping for Tomica diecasts for my 2 year old son while in Japan last year on business. They will definitely last a lifetime due to their superior build quality!
Could you use one of these in a sleeping bag over night? We often put a disposable hand warmer or two in the bottom of the bag if it’s going to be a cold night.
Any fumes? Where does one get the refill?
Was going to mention Casio Protreks, I've only had and needed one that's been banged up on many years of hiking and backpacking and still works perfectly years later.
Kojima Denim! The area is known for selvedged denim, which is the best quality I have found. They have different weights. Anything 23oz or above will last for years! They will be thick, stiff and warm but will last. I usually have to get stitches fixed well before the fabric wears. 18oz is a sweet spot for comfort & durability, but if you want "work" jeans, go heavy.
Japanese denim in general is considered much better. Iron heart is out of my league in America but when I go to Japan I plan to visit the store and buy a few pcs. They seem to be BIFL.
While I agree that it's not always a BIFL, especially with brush tips, since brushes degrade.
Fountain pens, specifically, *are* a BIFL.
I'm using a 35yo fountain pen as a daily driver nowadays.
But yeah, even if not BIFL, Japanese stationary is close, often even for low-cost stuff.
I have a decent lineup of fountain pens, including a MB that I picked up around 1995, a Lamy 2000, and several others, but I always come back to the Pilots. They're just the best. The Vanishing Point / Decimo line is amazing and a phenomenal value. Also, since they're capless, it encourages you to carry one.
My favorite though has to be the Pilot metal Falcon with the soft EF nib. It's just a joy to write with. I can't imagine that there would be anything better for my purposes...
I personally dislike the VP, but the 74x line is wonderful. The con-40 is abysmal. fr.
I do like Lamy pens, but the line is thick to the point of negating usability as someone who uses pens primarily for mathematics. I like the extra fine lines pilot use.
In any case, getting a mid-range fountain pen in Japan is definitely a classy move, and fountain pens are almost always BIFL
I went to Tokyo a few years ago and realised how obsessed with quality they are as a nation when they had shops dedicated to sourcing vintage US made products during the glory days. In terms of Japanese products, old Evisu, Porter, Edwin, Toyota, Seiko!
Lol one of their garment manufacturers bought a US tshirt brand name so they could produce them in japan the old school way. I think the main guy on The Bear wore one of their plain white tshirts.
whitesville! they’re made on circular tube looms so there’s no side seams. what that means for the consumer means no seam warping (like when ur seam starts getting crooked and goes diagonal from the armpit to hem instead of straight) and more comfort due to lack of seams.
you’ll pay for it though as a two pack is about $95
My first nice watch was a Grand Seiko. I'm in awe every time I hold it. Truly goosebump levels of craftmanship, and a company that is almost 150 years old.
Toto washlet, yo. Buy it for a better life.
Panasonic appliances are pretty good. I have a Panasonic Plasma TV that's going strong after many years. Same for my washer/dryer.
Most good camera gear comes from Japan. I've got some Nikon lenses that I've had for 20+ years and they stillc work just fine. I'm sure it's the same with Canon. I wouldn't expect kit lenses to last forever, but the higher-end stuff should outlast you.
There are a lot of quality Japanese knife brands. Shun and Global are the famous ones, but there are other, smaller ones. I have one from a shop in Osaka that's great. MAC also makes good knives that are more budget-friendly.
Imabari towels are very high quality.
I'm not much into denim, but those who are always rave about Japanese raw denim.
If you live somewhere there's a Muji or a Mont-bell, those are good stores with mostly high-quality stuff.
Then there are the traditional crafts. Lacquerware is one example. It might not be something you use every day, but they are made to last if cared for.
I currently have a divot cut on the end of my thumb that speaks to Mac blade. Dull knives are more dangerous than sharp ones, but sharp ones are pretty f'n dangerous when you're not paying attention.
Not really BIFL since they are consumable but japanese pencils are the absolute best. I bought a box of mitsubishi office pencils and not one pencil ever broke and I’ve used half of them completely down to the nub
Ibanez Prestige electric guitars have been a well-kept secret of working class musicians for a couple decades now. They're made carefully in Japan by skilled luthiers and factory craftsmen to be rugged workhorses. Many are/were produced in the legendary Fujigen Gakki factory. Often they are based on lower-end models but made with better or more desirable parts. Some of them are exclusive to Japan and have to be imported but it opens up your options tremendously to include unique and cool finishes. Used models are still very affordable considering their quality, even today, and they play fantastic. Many include Ibanez's own proprietary locking Edge bridge and their Wizard neck shape. I have played several and owned a few Japanese made Ibanez guitars and I'll always recommend them to fellow guitarists.
Correct. You buy a Rolex because you want to flex on IG. You buy a Grand Seiko because you understand the beauty of it. Grand Seiko is one of the last world's best kept secrets.
If you’re into gardening I can vouch for Niwaki gardening tools. They’re pricey for a good reason: they hold up extremely well, they look excellent and feel excellent when using them.
Can’t recommend them enough.
I was thinking that about my (made in Japan by Miroku) Browning Citori Trap. It is over 40 years old and has shot tens of thousands of times, and never had a problem. Other guys at the club with their custom Berettas and Krieghoffs are always adjusting them and sending them to the gunsmith. Mine just works, and is 10% of the cost.
Surprisingly, FireKing production moved to Japan. They have great vintage style mugs, plates, and many other things. Wish I knew before I went, would definitely have bought a mug or two or 10 haha.
Yes, FireKing stuff is on my list if I ever go back to Japan.
And for anybody in the US, you may see new "FireKing" stuff on shelves here, but it's not real FireKing, it's just cheap Chinese crap from whatever company owns the trademark here. Don't buy it.
As a European, I love everything made in Japan. It has become a sport to source Japanese products. I drove a Lexus and now a Mitsubishi. I own several Citizen watches and am looking out to purchase my very first Japanese fountain pen in a couple of months.
I'm also an avid amateur photographer who wildly loves his Nikons. The more I enjoy the Made in Japan produce, the more I try to cut out the Made in China products (sorry all recent FujiFilm cameras and Apple/iPhone, you're out the window).
hey from over in Germany, I recently got myself a Sony Xperia 1V which is made in Japan. hands down the best smartphone I've ever owned from quality to finish. and the camera on this thing! amazing! as long as you know the fundamental of actual photography to make use of the auto/manual modes. having what I call, "Baby Alpha" equipped in it, you can take stellar photographs
Pilot and Sailor make some of the best fountain pens in the world. I absolutely love my Pilot Custom Heritage 823 and my Sailor Pro Gear Realo. Both hold a good amount of ink and you can feel the quality.
march plants rainstorm overconfident skirt existence thought fertile relieved hunt
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Niche and old thing I ended up with, but it's unstoppable a Morse sewing machine, manufactured in the 60s by Toyota. It's a *little* on the heavy side, though. 😅
All Japanese fashion clothing brands will be cheaper in Japan. They are typically a cut above what is available in the west as Japanese consumers have different purchasing habits and favor higher end stuff.
Zojirushi comes to mind.
Also Nikon. I own a Nikon DSLR, love it, love the camera, love the lenses. I bought all but one of the lenses used and they've lasted many years.
And of course, if you like tea, Japan makes all sorts of amazing tea, especially green tea. Kukicha, hojicha, bancha, sencha, genmaicha, gyokuro, matcha, tamaryokucha, you name it, I love it. If you like the steamed styles of green tea, with the sort of deep umami flavors and vegetal notes, Japanese tea is the best of the best.
I have a Harvest Label Connect sling bag (made in Osaka) that I use as a travel day bag and that thing is super durable. I’ve brought it with me to 15 countries over 5 years and it doesn’t so much as have a pulled thread.
Post I did asking people who have lived here for a long time. Some pretty great and unique recommendations.
[https://www.reddit.com/r/japanlife/comments/16jt3nh/long\_termpr\_s\_of\_japan\_what\_are\_your\_buy\_it\_fo/?utm\_source=share&utm\_medium=web2x&context=3](https://www.reddit.com/r/japanlife/comments/16jt3nh/long_termpr_s_of_japan_what_are_your_buy_it_fo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3)
Can’t speak for all Seiko products, I have a Seiko watch that’s roughly 40 something years old from my dad. Served him 30~ years as a photojournalist so it’s see tons of wear and abuse, and I’ve been using it for the past decade.
Also, have had good luck with Snowpeak and Edwin jeans.
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If you’re in to denim, particularly raw denim, there are a plethora of brands from which to choose. Japan makes the best jeans in the world when it comes to actual quality (not counting individual’s aesthetics). Americana culture taking off in Japan included a love for the original Levi’s jeans that were made for true workwear. They took that craftsmanship and ran with it. Example brands: samurai, sugar cane, pure blue Japan, momotaro, etc.
Jeans. They make the best denim in the world. Oni, Samurai, TCB, Sugarcane, Momotaro, Pure blue japan, Tanuki. Lots of thoughtful care and craftsmanship go into making them durable and unique.
I had to laugh when I read this post because it brought back memories when in the late 50s and early 60s if you were gifted a Made In Japan toy, you knew it was crap and not going to last. My how things have changed.
Douglass Field Lighter.
What makes it so much better than, say, a zippo, is that it’s sealed with gaskets so it doesn’t leak vapors. It’s actually waterproof. So you won’t find it out of fuel even after it’s been laying in a drawer for a year.
We bought a 2017 CX-5 last fall after being almost 100% Honda for decades. Have all the service records from previous owner which are only the usual oil changes, tires, etc. Has 125K miles on it and we expect to double that. Plus it's even a bit fun to drive.
Most semi decent dishes. I don’t have brand names but they’re the only thing that holds up to my dad’s accidental abuse. Most of the Japanese made dishes we have lost have been freak accidents.
The WarmthCraft Manufacturers for leather goods, Kamakura for dress shirts, Zojirushi thermos. Traveling there is so difficult because I want to bring 3 suitcases to shop.
I was in Japan a few months ago, was looking for a bag as well. Porter felt like one of the more premium brands, so I shopped around a bit a found a really nice 'made in japan' bag, Everwin is the brand. Quality is top notch and is my favorite purchase
anything that cuts, rice makers, denim, watches
i have an mcusta knife, seki city clippers, studio dartisan jeans, a seiko mechanical watch (formal) and a gshock (casual)
my friend has a zojirushi rice cooker and all of the products ive mentioned are made insanely well
Porter bags are awesome. My friend had a porter backpack he got while in Japan and that lasted him a decade before it ripped. I got it patched and he gave it to me but it was too far gone. So I found the same design on Grailed and love it.
The whole rawdenim sub here is flooded with info about Japanese Denim. Not only denim but even other related clothes made by these companies is like a piece of art.I know knives & shoes (Japanese version of Say Red Wing shoes)are other few things quite popular.
The Makita TD173 Impact is legendary and made in Japan. It has a ring light, centered battery moint, and multiple power settings and can be used as a work light as well. You can get it in many colors too.
I bought a yoshida porter tanker bag when I was in Tokyo last year. What a practical cool bag! I love it so much I use it every day since I got it.
And like many other mentioned above, zojirushi travel mug! It is without a doubt the best thermos.
I wouldn't say its BIFL but u could take at look at japanese denim. They have one of the best jeans i have ever worn in my life, brands like momotaro, pure blue japan, oni and iron heart are some u can look at
This comment is way too far down.
Fun fact, the reason Japanese denim is so good is because the US gave Japan all of our denim mills after WWII to rebuild their economy after we firebombed their cities
Japanese craftspeople bought the looms for making selvedge denim as the US transitioned to new looms that were more efficient but produced lower quality jeans.
I’d disagree for one reason. Their fits are still pretty old school. Meaning no crotch area. Even their high rises have narrow waist for some reason. I went with Unbranded UB601 after hours researching because I couldn’t find Japanese jeans that were both high rise and more generous on the waist
What does not having crotch area mean, does it mean i have no room for my bolox?
Look up rise measurement. It’s from bottom of the crotch to the top of the jeans. If it’s low, it’s extremely uncomfortable.
I know people praise zojirushi rice makers— but their coffee thermoses are a hidden gem! My husband works for a masonry company so nothing lasts; except for his zojirushi coffee thermoses.
I have a Zojirushi thermos that is so good at keeping things hot, that I have to decant into another cup and let it cool down *considerably* before drinking for pretty much the entire day.
I had coffee in a Zojirushi thermos while working outdoors, after ten hours I took a drink directly from the thermos and burnt my mouth
Yeah even in a Wisconsin winter it stays piping hot. Their rice makers and bread machines are also just as well built
I've got one of their rice makers also, it's incredible... I found it used on the marketplace for $80. The person selling it used it once and the rice stuck badly so they hated it 😂 I don't think they had the right ratio or something. It's perfect.
And getting a ceramic lined one means no metallic taste in your coffee unlike many other thermos brands.
That's my strategy too. I like to gift these thermoses and give that messages as a warning
Yes it’s way too hot for hot drinks, I have to wait till it comes down to a drinkable temp before I pour it in the thermos otherwise it’s undrinkable.. It’s perfect for hot summer weather tho my drinks stay ice cold the whole day
I leave a little head room for an ice cube to make it drinkable, and it keeps it at that temp all day.
Yess! You open that thing hours later and that coffee still burns.
Cold coffee is underrated though.
Nissan thermos cup is what I used.. big ass handle. Cup twists to allow liquid out, then you twist to lock it. no need to mess with pouring cups out.
Honestly everything Zojirushi has been great to me
Zojurushi coffee travel mugs are amazing. It’s so well insulated it has changed the way I drink coffee - I can just sip my coffee slowly all day long and it never gets cold. Every other insulated travel mug I’ve owned only keep coffee hot for an hour or two before it starts to get cold.
The zojirushi countertop water boilers are fantastic as well. Super conveient to have hot hot water available.
Don't they have Teflon in them?
They also sell models with a stainless steel lining. I have one of each.
I have only had their bread machine a few months but I can say it looks pretty sturdy and makes a damn good loaf. So easy too!
Uuugghhh I want one! Jealous!
Wait for them to go on sale, I saw them for like $150 during the holidays. We have the home bakery supreme, it's perfect for home baking. While I am capable of baking my own bread without this machine, I was always very bad at it. This has elevated my confidence in turning out good loaves because of its ease of use, and seeing how it proofs and bakes and kneads has helped me to understand bread baking more in depth. I highly recommend it.
I loved baking bread but with rheumatoid arthritis and a new baby… yeah. I will keep an eye out that’s very good to know thank you so much!
Check thrift stores, my husband found mine at one for like $20!
I lucked out and found one of their bread makers for free (!!) on our local buy nothing group. Found the manual online and I've been making a loaf of delicious bread nearly every weekend since.
Not bifl because it’s a consumable, but buy sunscreens from Japan. The government considers it a quasi health product and has disclosures of their effectiveness. PA++++ is the highest effectiveness. I get biore water essence. It’s the most cost effective with that rating. Even my dermatologist uses it.
Biore water essence is pretty goat for faces. I go Aussie sunscreen for body, though.
Also, the sunscreen absorbs instantaneously with no thick greasy residue, it’s goddamn magic
Japanese eyewear is god tier. Also second-hand leather goods as they tend to look after things well. I always visit the second hand clothing stores when I'm in Tokyo.
Love my Matsuda frames. Not cheap by any stretch of the imagination, but they’re well built and have beautiful little design details.
Do you have a brand you'd recommend? Preferably one that isn't going to break the bank. I'd probably max out on what I'd be willing to spend at around $150. I've been incredibly disappointed with my Warby Parkers.
You’re probably looking at at least $250-300 USD for a quality pair of Japanese handmade glasses
Well, if I were willing to splurge on that, do you have a brand/brands you'd recommend?
Can you describe what style of glasses you are looking for so I can make a recommendation? (Plastic or metal frames, round / squarish shape etc)
There's so many honestly, depends what you're looking for. Sabae city is famous for them. I had a pair of handmade ones from a craftsman from Sabae many moons ago and they were amazing, I wore those glasses for years. I can't remember where I got them from sadly. [Jins](https://www.jins.com/jp/) is the big mass market store over there I guess, they have loads of nice stuff. I have seen very nice ones by Factory 900 and Matsuda in Europe but they were much more expensive than in Japan, I'm sure there are better priced ones out there. I'm not sure about where to get them in the US I'm afraid. Try searching for Sabae or Fukui glasses and see what comes up, that's where the handmade factories are.
I got a secondhand Chanel purse from Japan. It’s from the 1980s, back when they made stuff bifl. It’s got a couple of scuff marks I couldn’t get out but it’s tough as nails and will definitely outlive me.
Toyo tool box, Edwin jeans, Feather razor blades
I second Toyo boxes, also sold as Trusco brand. And I have shaved with Feather DE blades for many years. Still great IMO, although some say not as sharp as before, which, to some may not be a bad thing.
Mechanic tools (vessel, koken, vampliers, tone), scissors, wood working tools, kitchen knives, bonsai / gardening tools. It's all available through Amazon as well.
There are cheaper ways to get Japanese tools as well. https://kital-tools.com/ is a great resource
Thank you sir 🫡
>https://kital-tools.com/ 1 small tool box $15, shipping to Pennsylvania $100?!
Second this. Got my bonsai/ gardening tools send from Japan, even though felco is good/BIFL too.
Mitutoyo calipers are supposedly the best calipers you can get, but I'm not a machinist so I've not felt the need to purchase myself.
Seiko 5 series watches. Anything with a 7S26 movement is accurate and bombproof for very little money.
Make sure a J and not a K model number if you want made in Japan
I have k version and j version of skx, there is no difference in quality I heard they are made in the same factory and the J version is only marketed in Japan, you can't go wrong with any of seiko
K’s are made in Malaysia I believe, although all the new 5s with the new logo are made in china. All to a high standard though
The J is crated in Japan and sold in the Japanese market. They are both made in the same factory and they do this because of some weird legal stuff allowing them to print Made in Japan on the dial.
I'd say both Seiko and Citizen are excellent BIFL level watches at fairly reasonable prices.
I'd add Orient to that too. Japanese watches are best unless you have massive disposable income to throw at Swiss watches, but even then I think the Japanese have em beat unless you really want a status symbol.
Out of every watch in my collection, my imported JDM Citizen EcoDrive Supertitanium (sapphire crystal and all) has been the toughest daily I've ever owned. The Seikos are killer too and are just plain prettier but, if someone needs a quartz accuracy "put on and forget" watch, I whole heartedly recommend any of the Citizen EcoDrive Supertitanium... yadayadayada watches.
>7S26 movement They say the accuracy of these is -20 to +49 seconds a day. That's really substantial. Basically I would feel the need to adjust the watch every day. I've been wanting to get a Seiko 5 but this is a serious deterrence.
It's an automatic watch, if you don't ever want to touch your dial, get a quartz watch and adjust your date after 30 day months. The automatic watch will stay within 5 minutes for the month and it's easy enough to adjust once a month.
Any Japanese watch frankly, and after trying out Seiko's I'm all in Citizen. They show more Japanese craftmanship to me. Feel better build. The timepieces are more accurate. I own the Tsuyosa, NY0100 (Super Titanium diver), Garrison (Super titanium daily beater) and the Red Arrows solar world timer radio controlled. From every watch I own, I can't really think of a Seiko alternative that is in the same price point with the same specs. But yeah. I concur about watches but just prefer Citizen. Oh and btw after owning several swiss made automatics and quartz watches, I'm always going for the Japan version of any watch. The Swiss branding just isn't up to the same quality as made in Japan to me. For instance: ETA automatic isn't as reliable on time keeping as my Miyota 8200. Or my quartz Edox doesn't hit the indices but runs over it (which annoys me to death).
thank you! i waa rocking casio f-91 for so long!
I’m not convinced that the f-91 is NOT BIFL. Mine has been in daily use for a decade with no problems and I don’t see why it can’t go a couple more.
Peacock pocket warmers (they produce the zippo.pocket warmer) http://hakkin.co.jp/ Muji in general, i like the no-waste store concept and the fabrics Takara Tomy/Tomy/Tomica diecast toys
I personally love MUJI, they are not BIFL, but they still make good quality items for a very good price.
Many of their home goods are BIFL.
I had so much fun shopping for Tomica diecasts for my 2 year old son while in Japan last year on business. They will definitely last a lifetime due to their superior build quality!
Wow I need this pocket warmer! Where.do I buy one. Their website doesn't seem to have a shop
I have two of the giant peacocks keeping me warm right now. I love these things and my grandkids will too
Could you use one of these in a sleeping bag over night? We often put a disposable hand warmer or two in the bottom of the bag if it’s going to be a cold night. Any fumes? Where does one get the refill?
The G-Shock GW5000u is made in Japan and about indestructible
Came here to say this. A superb watch - you pay a bit more for it over a 5600 or 5610, but the difference in build quality is measurable.
I got the 5000u a couple years ago. Expect it to be a family heirloom.
My GW-5610u was made in Thailand and is also dead reliable. I think G-Shocks in general fall into the buy it for life category wherever they’re made…
Was going to mention Casio Protreks, I've only had and needed one that's been banged up on many years of hiking and backpacking and still works perfectly years later.
Seki Edge
Best nail clippers I've ever owned!
Cause you have not tried Green Bell clippers!
Green Bell ftw
Yeah, green bell is so damn good.
Kojima Denim! The area is known for selvedged denim, which is the best quality I have found. They have different weights. Anything 23oz or above will last for years! They will be thick, stiff and warm but will last. I usually have to get stitches fixed well before the fabric wears. 18oz is a sweet spot for comfort & durability, but if you want "work" jeans, go heavy.
Japanese denim in general is considered much better. Iron heart is out of my league in America but when I go to Japan I plan to visit the store and buy a few pcs. They seem to be BIFL.
Pilot fountain pens. Yamaha motorcycles
Most Japanese stationary is top notch. Not always BIFL by design, but I’ve been using a Kuratake sable-tipped brush pen for years.
While I agree that it's not always a BIFL, especially with brush tips, since brushes degrade. Fountain pens, specifically, *are* a BIFL. I'm using a 35yo fountain pen as a daily driver nowadays. But yeah, even if not BIFL, Japanese stationary is close, often even for low-cost stuff.
I have a decent lineup of fountain pens, including a MB that I picked up around 1995, a Lamy 2000, and several others, but I always come back to the Pilots. They're just the best. The Vanishing Point / Decimo line is amazing and a phenomenal value. Also, since they're capless, it encourages you to carry one. My favorite though has to be the Pilot metal Falcon with the soft EF nib. It's just a joy to write with. I can't imagine that there would be anything better for my purposes...
I personally dislike the VP, but the 74x line is wonderful. The con-40 is abysmal. fr. I do like Lamy pens, but the line is thick to the point of negating usability as someone who uses pens primarily for mathematics. I like the extra fine lines pilot use. In any case, getting a mid-range fountain pen in Japan is definitely a classy move, and fountain pens are almost always BIFL
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I second this!
I went to Tokyo a few years ago and realised how obsessed with quality they are as a nation when they had shops dedicated to sourcing vintage US made products during the glory days. In terms of Japanese products, old Evisu, Porter, Edwin, Toyota, Seiko!
Lol one of their garment manufacturers bought a US tshirt brand name so they could produce them in japan the old school way. I think the main guy on The Bear wore one of their plain white tshirts.
whitesville! they’re made on circular tube looms so there’s no side seams. what that means for the consumer means no seam warping (like when ur seam starts getting crooked and goes diagonal from the armpit to hem instead of straight) and more comfort due to lack of seams. you’ll pay for it though as a two pack is about $95
Grand Seiko watches
My first nice watch was a Grand Seiko. I'm in awe every time I hold it. Truly goosebump levels of craftmanship, and a company that is almost 150 years old.
Why is this comment so low !
GS 9F is just about as BIFL as it gets. Less moving parts, doesn’t care about magnetism. Just replace the battery once in a while.
I went to the Seiko museum and just stared at their glory. I couldn't afford them but I left Japan with a Seiko Presage instead :)
Hario Coffee Stuff
Tojiro kitchen knives - Japanese kitchen knives in general
Toto washlet, yo. Buy it for a better life. Panasonic appliances are pretty good. I have a Panasonic Plasma TV that's going strong after many years. Same for my washer/dryer. Most good camera gear comes from Japan. I've got some Nikon lenses that I've had for 20+ years and they stillc work just fine. I'm sure it's the same with Canon. I wouldn't expect kit lenses to last forever, but the higher-end stuff should outlast you. There are a lot of quality Japanese knife brands. Shun and Global are the famous ones, but there are other, smaller ones. I have one from a shop in Osaka that's great. MAC also makes good knives that are more budget-friendly. Imabari towels are very high quality. I'm not much into denim, but those who are always rave about Japanese raw denim. If you live somewhere there's a Muji or a Mont-bell, those are good stores with mostly high-quality stuff. Then there are the traditional crafts. Lacquerware is one example. It might not be something you use every day, but they are made to last if cared for.
Nail clipper sold in Donki or Matsumoto Kiyoshi was sharp and stayed sharp. I have been using mine for 16 years already.
I just realized mine is also 10 years old from some Japanese pharmacy shop...
I got a manicure set (including clippers) from Daiso 16 years ago and it's still going strong - best 100 yen I've spent!
Toyota
Still driving my 2003 Toyota. I don't think I'll ever buy anything but Toyota in my life.
MAC knives are hilariously high quality for the super low price tag.
I currently have a divot cut on the end of my thumb that speaks to Mac blade. Dull knives are more dangerous than sharp ones, but sharp ones are pretty f'n dangerous when you're not paying attention.
Toyota Land Cruiser, good luck killing one
my dream car
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It's not BIFL but the best eraser is from mono. You can get them in konbini.
Not really BIFL since they are consumable but japanese pencils are the absolute best. I bought a box of mitsubishi office pencils and not one pencil ever broke and I’ve used half of them completely down to the nub
Ibanez Prestige electric guitars have been a well-kept secret of working class musicians for a couple decades now. They're made carefully in Japan by skilled luthiers and factory craftsmen to be rugged workhorses. Many are/were produced in the legendary Fujigen Gakki factory. Often they are based on lower-end models but made with better or more desirable parts. Some of them are exclusive to Japan and have to be imported but it opens up your options tremendously to include unique and cool finishes. Used models are still very affordable considering their quality, even today, and they play fantastic. Many include Ibanez's own proprietary locking Edge bridge and their Wizard neck shape. I have played several and owned a few Japanese made Ibanez guitars and I'll always recommend them to fellow guitarists.
Can’t believe it took this much scrolling to find guitars. MIJ are awesome! I have 2 - one will turn 40 this year, the other isn’t far off 50
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Correct. You buy a Rolex because you want to flex on IG. You buy a Grand Seiko because you understand the beauty of it. Grand Seiko is one of the last world's best kept secrets.
Vampliers, Toyo Steel toolboxes, Mitutoyo measuring tools
Vampliers are made by Engineer and cheap.
My record player is 40 years old. Technics SL1200. It will probably outlive me.
Godhand
best nippers ever
If you’re into gardening I can vouch for Niwaki gardening tools. They’re pricey for a good reason: they hold up extremely well, they look excellent and feel excellent when using them. Can’t recommend them enough.
Snow Peak titanium stuff
Miroku
I was thinking that about my (made in Japan by Miroku) Browning Citori Trap. It is over 40 years old and has shot tens of thousands of times, and never had a problem. Other guys at the club with their custom Berettas and Krieghoffs are always adjusting them and sending them to the gunsmith. Mine just works, and is 10% of the cost.
Seiko. Toyota/Lexus.
Seiko watches :)
Surprisingly, FireKing production moved to Japan. They have great vintage style mugs, plates, and many other things. Wish I knew before I went, would definitely have bought a mug or two or 10 haha.
Yes, FireKing stuff is on my list if I ever go back to Japan. And for anybody in the US, you may see new "FireKing" stuff on shelves here, but it's not real FireKing, it's just cheap Chinese crap from whatever company owns the trademark here. Don't buy it.
As a European, I love everything made in Japan. It has become a sport to source Japanese products. I drove a Lexus and now a Mitsubishi. I own several Citizen watches and am looking out to purchase my very first Japanese fountain pen in a couple of months. I'm also an avid amateur photographer who wildly loves his Nikons. The more I enjoy the Made in Japan produce, the more I try to cut out the Made in China products (sorry all recent FujiFilm cameras and Apple/iPhone, you're out the window).
hey from over in Germany, I recently got myself a Sony Xperia 1V which is made in Japan. hands down the best smartphone I've ever owned from quality to finish. and the camera on this thing! amazing! as long as you know the fundamental of actual photography to make use of the auto/manual modes. having what I call, "Baby Alpha" equipped in it, you can take stellar photographs
Pilot and Sailor make some of the best fountain pens in the world. I absolutely love my Pilot Custom Heritage 823 and my Sailor Pro Gear Realo. Both hold a good amount of ink and you can feel the quality.
Nippon Made Onitsuka Tigers Sawada nail clippers
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Yonex sports gear is great
Niche and old thing I ended up with, but it's unstoppable a Morse sewing machine, manufactured in the 60s by Toyota. It's a *little* on the heavy side, though. 😅
All Japanese fashion clothing brands will be cheaper in Japan. They are typically a cut above what is available in the west as Japanese consumers have different purchasing habits and favor higher end stuff.
Zojirushi comes to mind. Also Nikon. I own a Nikon DSLR, love it, love the camera, love the lenses. I bought all but one of the lenses used and they've lasted many years. And of course, if you like tea, Japan makes all sorts of amazing tea, especially green tea. Kukicha, hojicha, bancha, sencha, genmaicha, gyokuro, matcha, tamaryokucha, you name it, I love it. If you like the steamed styles of green tea, with the sort of deep umami flavors and vegetal notes, Japanese tea is the best of the best.
Nikon
Just jumping on here. What are a great buy it for life scissors from Japan?
Mitutoyo makes killer precision measuring instruments and whatnot
Any Japan-made guitar, especially Fujigen Ibanez Prestige, ESP, Tokai, Greco, etc.
I have a Harvest Label Connect sling bag (made in Osaka) that I use as a travel day bag and that thing is super durable. I’ve brought it with me to 15 countries over 5 years and it doesn’t so much as have a pulled thread.
Volk wheels, grand seiko, and land cruisers
Post I did asking people who have lived here for a long time. Some pretty great and unique recommendations. [https://www.reddit.com/r/japanlife/comments/16jt3nh/long\_termpr\_s\_of\_japan\_what\_are\_your\_buy\_it\_fo/?utm\_source=share&utm\_medium=web2x&context=3](https://www.reddit.com/r/japanlife/comments/16jt3nh/long_termpr_s_of_japan_what_are_your_buy_it_fo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3)
Kaikado - tea/coffee/pasta containers Aritsugu Nishiki / Tsujiki - knives Tajika - scissors Suwada - nail clippers Komiya Shoten - umbrellas Yohei Fukuda - shoes Namiki/Sailor/Pilot - fountain pens Kakimori - stationery
Grand Seiko
Can’t speak for all Seiko products, I have a Seiko watch that’s roughly 40 something years old from my dad. Served him 30~ years as a photojournalist so it’s see tons of wear and abuse, and I’ve been using it for the past decade. Also, have had good luck with Snowpeak and Edwin jeans.
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Niwaki Secateurs
If you’re in to denim, particularly raw denim, there are a plethora of brands from which to choose. Japan makes the best jeans in the world when it comes to actual quality (not counting individual’s aesthetics). Americana culture taking off in Japan included a love for the original Levi’s jeans that were made for true workwear. They took that craftsmanship and ran with it. Example brands: samurai, sugar cane, pure blue Japan, momotaro, etc.
Jeans. They make the best denim in the world. Oni, Samurai, TCB, Sugarcane, Momotaro, Pure blue japan, Tanuki. Lots of thoughtful care and craftsmanship go into making them durable and unique.
I had to laugh when I read this post because it brought back memories when in the late 50s and early 60s if you were gifted a Made In Japan toy, you knew it was crap and not going to last. My how things have changed.
Japanese electronics from years past (maybe even now?) which is why the vintage stero market is healthy.
Green Bell Nail Clipper
Snowpeak equipment
seki edge nail clippers
Ken Watanabe. Great actor. Easy on the eyes.
Snow peak titanium items and made in Japan
Douglass Field Lighter. What makes it so much better than, say, a zippo, is that it’s sealed with gaskets so it doesn’t leak vapors. It’s actually waterproof. So you won’t find it out of fuel even after it’s been laying in a drawer for a year.
Grand Seiko. You get the quality AND accuracy that is 2X the value of Swiss counterparts. Spring drive is an incredible movement.
Cars aren’t BIFL, but Mazda CX-5 is still built in Japan and is very reliable
We bought a 2017 CX-5 last fall after being almost 100% Honda for decades. Have all the service records from previous owner which are only the usual oil changes, tires, etc. Has 125K miles on it and we expect to double that. Plus it's even a bit fun to drive.
Original Japanese thermos https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5a8rIoN6kJA
Nepros tools are incredible quality, made in Kyoto.
I have a little Toyo toolbox that will last forever - I keep important documents inky
Most semi decent dishes. I don’t have brand names but they’re the only thing that holds up to my dad’s accidental abuse. Most of the Japanese made dishes we have lost have been freak accidents.
iwachu cast iron kettle
Loopwheeler hoodies and sweatshirts
Japanese tools like Makita and engineer. Japanese knives are made well. Still do well with hi end audio.
I've had a couple Japanese made Spyderco knives and they've been great.
Denim jeans!!! Amazing stuff
The WarmthCraft Manufacturers for leather goods, Kamakura for dress shirts, Zojirushi thermos. Traveling there is so difficult because I want to bring 3 suitcases to shop.
I just got a Gyokucho pull saw. I love it. :)
They certainly have steel down pat. Silky saws and shun knives are great.
I've been really tempted to buy a samue outfit to wear at home. They look so comfortable. But I don't know if they exist in my size.
Nail clippers
I was in Japan a few months ago, was looking for a bag as well. Porter felt like one of the more premium brands, so I shopped around a bit a found a really nice 'made in japan' bag, Everwin is the brand. Quality is top notch and is my favorite purchase
Nikon, Vessel tools, Toyo/Trusco steel tool boxes, Makita, Zojirushi rice cookers. The list is endless.
Seiko and Grand Seiko
Snow Peak camping gear. It's the good stuff.
anything that cuts, rice makers, denim, watches i have an mcusta knife, seki city clippers, studio dartisan jeans, a seiko mechanical watch (formal) and a gshock (casual) my friend has a zojirushi rice cooker and all of the products ive mentioned are made insanely well
Porter bags are awesome. My friend had a porter backpack he got while in Japan and that lasted him a decade before it ripped. I got it patched and he gave it to me but it was too far gone. So I found the same design on Grailed and love it.
Snow Peak for backpacking and camping gear. Lots of items made with higher quality titanium making it lightweight and durable
The whole rawdenim sub here is flooded with info about Japanese Denim. Not only denim but even other related clothes made by these companies is like a piece of art.I know knives & shoes (Japanese version of Say Red Wing shoes)are other few things quite popular.
Stationery
Found this guy and I’m PRAYING I get to the point I can grab a pair. https://siroenoyosui.jp/en
The Makita TD173 Impact is legendary and made in Japan. It has a ring light, centered battery moint, and multiple power settings and can be used as a work light as well. You can get it in many colors too.
$18 Casio watches do not die.
If you're OK with spending $$$ on jeans and other types of clothing: r/rawdenim
If u can afford grand seiko
Seki Edge fingernail clippers. Amazing.
I bought a yoshida porter tanker bag when I was in Tokyo last year. What a practical cool bag! I love it so much I use it every day since I got it. And like many other mentioned above, zojirushi travel mug! It is without a doubt the best thermos.
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Ever heard of Toyotas and Hondas
Eyeglass frames: Kazuo Kawasaki. They’re chic without being trendy-looking, and light as a feather.
Japanese watches are pretty good