Are There Fake NH or VK Movements?

Understanding TMI, Seiko, and the Truth Behind Seiko Mods

If you’re researching Seiko mod watches or planning to buy a custom mod watch, you’ve likely seen movement names like NH35, NH36, NH34, or VK63 everywhere.

This often leads to a common — and important — question:

Are NH or VK movements fake? And are they really made by Seiko?

To answer this properly, we need to explain TMI (Time Module Inc.), how it relates to Seiko, and where these movements actually come from.

First, Who Makes NH and VK Movements?

The short, correct answer:

NH and VK movements are manufactured by TMI (Time Module Inc.), a Seiko Group company.

This distinction matters — especially for clarity and legal accuracy.

What Is TMI (Time Module Inc.)?

Time Module Inc. (TMI) is a subsidiary of the Seiko Group.

• TMI is responsible for producing movements supplied to third-party brands

• These movements are not branded “Seiko”

• They are designed, engineered, and manufactured using Seiko technology and standards

In simple terms:

TMI movements are Seiko-made movements, produced specifically for external use.

This is why NH and VK movements are widely used in:

• Microbrands

• Custom mod watches

• Independent watchmakers

Without using Seiko-branded components.

The Relationship Between Seiko, TMI, NH, and VK

Let’s break it down clearly:

🔹 Seiko-branded movements

Used in official Seiko watches only
(e.g. 4R, 6R series)

🔹 TMI movements (NH / VK series)

• Produced by TMI (Seiko Group)

• Mechanically equivalent to many Seiko calibres

• Supplied without Seiko branding

• Intended for third-party and custom watch use

Examples:

• NH35 ≈ Seiko 4R35

• NH36 ≈ Seiko 4R36

• VK63 ≈ Seiko Mecha-Quartz chronograph architecture

This is why NH and VK movements are legitimate, original movements, not copies or clones.

What About VK Movements (VK63, VK64)?

The VK series (such as VK63) is also produced by TMI.

These are mecha-quartz movements, combining:

• Quartz accuracy

• Mechanical chronograph feel (sweeping chronograph seconds, snap-back reset)

They are widely used in:

• Motorsport-style chronographs

• Panda dial custom mods

• Tool watches requiring reliability and low maintenance

Again, VK movements are not fake Seiko movements — they are official TMI products, designed for external brands.

So… Are There Fake NH or VK Movements?

The reality:

There is no large-scale counterfeit industry for NH or VK movements.

Here’s why:

1. They Are Already Affordable

NH and VK movements are cost-effective at wholesale level.
Producing a convincing mechanical or mecha-quartz clone would cost more than buying genuine TMI movements.

2. “Fake” Claims Usually Mean Something Else

When people talk about “fake NH” or “fake VK” movements, they are usually referring to:

• Used or refurbished movements

• Poor handling or storage

• Mislabelled listings

• Bad assembly practices

These are quality issues, not counterfeit movements.

The Real Risk: Assembly, Not Authenticity

In the custom mod watch world, the biggest variable is craftsmanship, not the movement origin.

Even a genuine TMI NH or VK movement can perform poorly if:

• Dust enters during assembly

• Hands are misaligned

• The movement is not properly secured

• The crown or gasket system is poorly installed

This is why who builds the watch matters more than the movement name.

Watchbrick’s Position on NH & VK Movements

At Watchbrick, we are very clear and transparent:

• We use genuine TMI-manufactured NH and VK movements

• No Seiko-branded parts are used

• Every watch is made to order

• Movements are inspected, installed, and tested individually

We do not claim our watches are “Seiko watches”.
They are custom mod watches built using TMI movements from the Seiko Group ecosystem.

This approach is honest, industry-accepted, and legally correct.

Should You Trust NH and VK Movements?

Absolutely — when they are:

• Sourced correctly

• Handled properly

• Assembled by experienced watchmakers

NH and VK movements are proven, reliable, and used by thousands of microbrands worldwide.

A well-built Watchbrick custom mod watch with a TMI NH or VK movement can easily outperform many entry-level factory watches in durability and serviceability.

Transparency Matters

The confusion around NH and VK movements usually comes from oversimplification.

So let’s be precise:

• NH and VK movements are made by TMI

• TMI is part of the Seiko Group

• These movements are original, legitimate, and designed for third-party use

• Quality depends far more on assembly and regulation than branding

That’s the truth behind Seiko mods — without marketing hype.

Explore Watchbrick Custom Mod Watches

Built with genuine TMI movements.
Hand-assembled. Made to order. Built to last.