Orient Star Somes WZ0221EL Review

There's been at least 4 iterations of the Orient Star Somes model and this one having a center seconds hand and a traditional dial layout is by far my favorite.  The Somes models characteristically have a retro styled cushion case with a fantastic leather strap manufactured by Somes.  Once again, the Orient Star line impresses me with its incredible value for the money.

Orient Star Standard Date Video

Watch Tanaka has posted a nice video of the new Orient Star model Standard Date.  Read more about this model here.  At first glance, I think this model looks pretty good and is competitively priced.  I also received some word that this line will also be available through the US distributors.




Thanks Hiro!

Orient Watch Virtual Museum

It is commonly held that the Japanese watch manufacturers do not promote their products and history to the levels they deserve, especially to the international market.  While surfing the Orient Japan website, I noticed they have a nice virtual museum showcasing Orient's legacy of models, caliber innovations and advertizing.  Unfortunately it is only in Japanese, but provides some nice viewing.  Maybe an English translation is something the US distributor can work on delivering.

To check out the site, click HERE.  Hopefully Orient won't break the link like the other Japanese companies have done to me in the past with some other cool stuff I've found.

Orient Star Classic Retrograde

Orient doesn't seem to get the attention that it used to a few years ago.  Its a shame really because most models deliver excellent value.

The Orient Star line is positioned as a mid range level of quality, construction and price.  I have an old model Orient Star Classic and it is a excellent piece.  Long over due for a review.  Easily at the level of a Seiko SARB.  Without question.

The Retrograde models were released a couple of years ago.  I never owned one, but I wanted to.  Based on pictures alone, I would say these are at the top of the line for the Stars.  Excellent casework and bracelet.  Ornate dial.  Sophisticated movement.  To be able to buy this for under $900 US is incredible.  Swiss made would easily cost double.

Click through to see more pictures and fantastic videos from Watch Tanaka and Orient USA.

Select Orient Star Models to be Released Internationally

Orient has announced the release of selected Orient Star models to the international market.  The Orient Star line is Orient's mid tier offering which prior to this was exclusive to the Japan market.  The Orient Star line has a nice mix of sporty and classic Japanese dress styles and Orient has selected three main models for the international market.

Orient Delivers a New Look to an Old Favorite

Orient has redesigned their venerable Mako line of dive styled watches.

Orient Celebrates 40 years of Caliber 469

Orient is celebrating 40 years of caliber 469 with a limited edition reissue of its King Diver. With its characteristic stick hands and internal bezel, the reissue King Diver will come in stainless steel as well as IP/PVD finish. The models will be released September 23, 2011 at a price of 42,000 to 47,250 yen with 3,000 available to the international market and 500 available for Japan only. More information below.

New Orient Star Models Spotted

New Orient Star models have been posted on the Orient Japan website.  The Orient Star line is a Japan only product comparable to the Seiko SARB models.  These new Orient Star models are similar to the existing Orient Star Classic line although the new models are more traditionally styled with a 3 o'clock crown and date window and no power reserve indicator.  I know it makes no sense that the Classic line is actually less classic designed than these new models, but follow Orient long enough and you get used to these little quirky things.

WZ0011DV

Orient CER1A002D -- You Don’t Have to Spend a Fortune for a Nice Watch

You Don’t Have to Spend a Fortune for a Nice Watch.

That’s right. You shouldn’t and you don’t have to. Sure there is a LOT of junk at the $100 price, but look a little harder and you can find some gems.

I’ve had this Orient Diver model number CER1A002D for many years now. By my records I spent $140 new from an AD and was easily found on eBay for $100 at the time. Everytime I wear it I think to myself, How can Orient manage to put such a nice package together for about $100? I have no idea, but I’m not about to complain.

New Orient GMT Highlighted on Yeoman Watch Review

Yeoman has some real life pictures of the newly released Orient GMT.  The newly designed 40P51 caliber features hacking and handwinding and an independently set GMT hand.

Yeoman showcases the model DJ02003W which features a beautiful guilloche dial with Roman numerals, a power reserve indicator, decorated movement, and vintage looking dagger style hands.  Although this model is not to my style, I look forward to Orient using this caliber in some more sporty looking designs.  I think they will do quite well.

Check out Yeoman's post here with many more pictures.

New Orient M-Force Now Available

I noticed that Seiya now lists the new Orient M-Force for sale on his website listed here.  Model number is WV0011EL. Picture below is his and check out his site for some more.  Orient incorporates the power reserve meter well by giving it more of a tool look and the construction of the bezel looks unique interesting something Orient excels at.

What do you think?

Orient Watch USA Promotion to Benefit Japan

Orient Watch USA is launching three new ladies models and all proceeds from the sales of these three models will be donated to the Red Cross to benefit the relief efforts in Japan.  Use the code HELPJAPAN for a 50% discount from the MSRP.  Click here for more information.

Some videos after the jump.

Orient Announces New M-Force 200M Professional Diver

Orient has announced the international release of a new model 200M professional diver under the M-Force line. Have not seen much of anything new from Orient under the M-Force line so perhaps this will mark a resurgence of new models.  I think this model looks good and I look forward to seeing more pictures and new models in the M-Force line up.

This particular model is characterized as having 200M water resistance, improved shock absorption, three dimensional bezel, anti-reflective sapphire crystal, and a power reserve indicator among many other features.  It uses the EL caliber which is capable of both hacking and handwinding.

Dial color options will be black, blue and orange.  The case measures 47.8mm wide, 51.5mm including the crown and is 13.3mm thick.

MSRP is 56,700 Yen which converts to about $690 US at today's exchange rate.

Full release notice can be found here.