The term “Wadokei” is the generic name given to all types of indigenous Japanese clocks of the Edo Period.  However, there are at least 15 recognised type forms that for the convenience of this website can be considered into four basic categories.  All Wadokei measure Temporal Time.

Category 1 – Early European-Style Lantern Clocks

This first category are Wadokei based on the early-European “Lantern Style” clocks brought to Japan – mainly produced by the Dutch.   The construction of these Wadokei are all basically the same, and their style type describes the way in which they were mounted:

• Yagura-dokei – Lantern Wadokei on wooden pyramid stands.
• Dai-dokei – Lantern Wadokei on four legged wooden stands.
• Hashira-dokei – Lantern Wadokei on wooden wall brackets.
• Kake-dokei – Lantern Wadokei with wall loops for hanging on wall nail.

Category 2 – Uniquely Japanese Style Clocks

The second category are Wadokei that relate to the uniquely Japanese method of indicating time based on the descent of the weight of the Wadokei’s going train.  A very logical principle, but one never adopted in the rest of the world.

• Shaku-dokei – Pillar clocks of which there were various versions.

Category 3 – Japanese Adaptations of other Clocks

The third category are Japanese manufactured Wadokei based on the principles of late-European styles, or Japanese conversion of European pocket watches to meet specific Japanese requirements.  (Edo Period Japanese never made Pocket Watches). They include:

• Makura-dokei – Mantle clocks with mainspring.
• Kane-dokei – Bell mounted clocks with mainspring.
• Inro-dokei – Belt worn re-cased Pocket Watches utilising mainly English (or French, or Swiss) movements or complete watches brought to Japan by English or Dutch traders.
• Pocket Watch – Direct adaptations of complete Pocket Watches utilising mainly English (or French, or Swiss) brought to Japan by English or Dutch traders.

Category 4 – Special Japanese Clocks

In addition to the three main categories above, and as might be expected, there were several special Japanese clocks.  Two significant examples which are:

• Mannen-dokei or “Thousand-Year Clock” – a one off masterpiece
• Suiyokyugi-dokei – Astronomers’ clocks based on shaku-dokei