About Us
Welcome to The Makoto Watch Company, where timekeeping transcends mere functionality to become an art form.
Our Story
Makoto Watch Company is the culmination of a lifelong dream realized by Ryan LeClair, a devoted watch enthusiast and collector with decades of experience. After years of delving into the world of horology and exploring the intricate details of fine timepieces, Ryan embarked on a new journey: creating his own watch brand.
His global travels led him to Japan, where he was captivated by the country’s profound culture, artistry, and dedication to perfection. This admiration for Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship deeply influenced Ryan, inspiring him to bring a piece of that magic to the world through Makoto Watch Company.
Our Philosophy
At Makoto Watch Company, we are committed to delivering the highest quality timepieces at an accessible price. Our philosophy revolves around offering unique and limited-run watches that represent both exceptional value and distinctive design. We believe that luxury should be both attainable and enduring, and our mission is to create timepieces that you can treasure for years and pass down through generations.
Join the Makoto Watch Company Ambassador Program: Help Us Spread the Word!
At Makoto Watch Company, we believe that every great watch has a story—and we'd love your help in telling ours. As a new and passionate watch brand, we're on a mission to build a community of watch enthusiasts who appreciate quality, style, and the craftsmanship behind every timepiece we create. And we know the best way to do that is with your help! We're looking for 10 select individuals to become Makoto Brand Ambassadors, helping us spread the word about our brand to watch lovers around the world. What’s in it for you? As a brand ambassador, you’ll receive: - One free Makoto watch of your choice** after completing 12 months of ambassadorship - Exclusive access to new releases, updates, and special offers - A chance to be part of the early Makoto community, shaping the future of our brand What’s expected? As a brand ambassador, your role will include: - Placing a couple of small Makoto decals on your vehicle (think of it as a stylish way to rep the brand every day!) - Posting **at least 1 time per week** on your social media channels (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc.) featuring our products, your experience with the brand, or anything Makoto-related. We love authentic, creative content! How to apply: If this sounds like a perfect fit for you, we’d love to hear from you! Reach out to us at [email protected] to express your interest. What are we looking for? With only 10 spots available, we're searching for ambassadors who are passionate about watches and social media, and who have a genuine love for sharing new brands with their community. We’ll be reviewing applications carefully based on your engagement, enthusiasm, and creative vision. If you're a good fit, we’ll discuss next steps with you directly. This is your chance to join the Makoto family, help us grow, and get rewarded with one of our signature timepieces in return for your dedication! **Don’t wait—apply today and be part of something exciting with Makoto!**
Why Makoto?
The name “Makoto” holds a special significance. In Japanese, Makoto represents Genuine Honesty, Authenticity, and Integrity. These values resonate deeply with our mission and ethos. We strive to embody these principles in every aspect of our brand—from the quality of our timepieces to the way we connect with our customers.
Our Commitment
At Makoto Watch Company, we are dedicated to creating timepieces that reflect our core values and exceed your expectations. Each watch is crafted with the intention of being more than just a functional accessory; it is designed to be a timeless treasure, cherished and passed down through the generations. We are excited to share this journey with you and invite you to explore our collection. Thank you for being a part of the Makoto Watch Company story. We look forward to the opportunity to accompany you on your own journey through time.
The Legend of Makoto Watch Company
The company’s emblem features a distinct, stylized “M” that appears to float gracefully above the watch’s face. To the casual observer, it might have seemed like a simple, elegant letter. But to those familiar with Japanese culture and symbolism, it was much more profound. The “M” was inspired by the Torii gates that are found throughout Japan. These iconic structures, with their bold orange pillars mark the entrance to sacred spaces. As one passes through a Torii gate, they transition from the mundane to the divine, leaving behind the everyday world to enter a realm of tranquility and reverence.
Mr. LeClair, the founder of the company, was deeply moved by this symbolism. He is a man who believes that a watch is more than a tool for telling time—it's a gateway to moments of personal significance and reflection. Just as a Torii gate signifies the entrance to something greater, the watch itself, in his view, represents a journey into the essence of one’s life and moments.
The story of how the logo came to be was almost as remarkable as the watches themselves. Legend has it that Ryan, during a journey to the sacred Fushimi Inari Shrine, found himself mesmerized by the thousands of Torii gates that lined the mountain paths. The gates created a tunnel of vibrant red and deep shadow, leading the way through a forest of spiritual significance.
Returning to his workshop, he sketched out the "M" that would become the company’s logo. The design was carefully crafted to echo the form of the Torii gates, with its strong vertical lines and the sweeping, almost transcendent curve that evoked the entrance to sacred space. It was a reminder that every moment, when captured and cherished, could be a transition to something profound.
The logo quickly became a beloved symbol among customers. It isn’t just a mark of quality—it is a reminder of the beauty and sanctity of moments that many of us rush past in our busy lives. Each watch bearing the emblem is not only a testament to fine craftsmanship but also an invitation to pause, reflect, and appreciate the passing moments that define our lives.
And so, every time a Makoto watch graced the wrist of a new owner, it carried with it a whisper of that sacred journey, a gentle nudge to remember the transition from the everyday to the extraordinary, marking each moment with grace and significance.
About the Founder
Meet Ryan LeClair, the visionary behind Makoto Watch Company. Ryan’s journey into the world of horology began over two decades ago, fueled by a passion for watches that saw him collect more than 200 timepieces. From rare microbrands to esteemed major labels, his extensive collection provided him with a unique perspective on watchmaking, allowing him to discern the finest qualities across all price points.
Before diving into the world of watches, Ryan spent 15 years owning and operating a renowned furniture store in London, Ontario. This experience honed his skills in design and customer service, focusing on delivering both exceptional quality and a personalized customer experience. These values—quality craftsmanship and attentive service—would later become the cornerstone of his watch brand philosophy.
Ryan’s love for travel took him to Japan, a country that profoundly influenced his brand identity. It was during this trip, amidst Japan’s stunning landscapes and its deep-seated appreciation for precision, that the concept for Makoto Watch Company began to take shape. The beauty of Japan’s simplicity and its meticulous craftsmanship resonated deeply with Ryan, further igniting his desire to create a brand that mirrored these qualities.
Tragically, during his time in Japan, Ryan received the heart-wrenching news of his father’s passing. The emotional weight of this news, combined with the serene surroundings of Japan, led Ryan to a profound realization about the significance of cherishing life’s simple moments. This experience crystallized his vision for Makoto—a brand dedicated to producing high-quality watches that offer both elegance and accessibility.
Today, Makoto Watch Company reflects Ryan’s commitment to excellence and his appreciation for life’s finer details. Each timepiece is crafted with the precision and care reminiscent of Japanese artistry, while remaining accessible to those who value quality without compromise. Ryan’s passion for watches, combined with his personal journey and dedication continues to inspire every aspect of Makoto Watch Company.
Discover more about Ryan’s vision and the essence of Makoto Watch Company, where every watch is a tribute to the beauty of Japan
