Japan's two major timepiece makers, Citizen Watch Co. and Seiko Watch Corp., are zeroing in on the high end of the North American market where Swiss firms have built solid brand recognition.

Citizen is resurrecting the time-honored Wittnauer brand, a marque dating back to the late 19th century, with a new lineup to be released in the United States and Canada in early October, an official said.

Seiko, meanwhile, is aiming to double its U.S. sales of the Astron series of GPS-mounted wristwatches that switch to local time anywhere in the world. An assortment of new offerings will be introduced with top tennis star Novak Djokovic enlisted as a Seiko brand promoter.