Orient Place

Orient Place

Tuesday 16 February 2021

Orient Re-issues The "World Dial" Watch

Sometimes Orient really catches us by surprise and does something unexpected. Today it does one such thing, announcing the release of four new versions of its famed 1969 "Map Dial" World Diver model.


The new World Map is very similar to the original watch. You get the time, date and day, as well as an inner rotating 24-hour bezel. The crown at three sets the time, while the crown at four turns the bezel. Four variations would be available:

·         Reference RN-AA0E04Y is a faithful reproduction of the original map dial design in full color, limited to 1200 units (300 in Japan, 900 for export).

·         References RN-AA0E01S, RN-AA0E02E, and RN-AA0E03L feature the world map etched on an ivory, green or blue dial, respectively. The ivory version also features gold plated bezel and crowns.


All references feature a 20mm solid steel bracelet, reminiscent of the vintage bracelet style. The case measures 43.5mm wide, 46mm long, and 13.9mm thick – so, slightly larger than the original, but maintaining very similar proportions.

The front crystal is mineral, while the case-back is solid. The watch features a useful water resistance of 20 bar (200 meters). Inside is Orient's caliber F6922.

The different models are priced around 500 USD, with the colorful and ivory versions being a little higher than the green and the blue.


The blog's verdict: Orient has definitely pulled an ace here. In fact, they set a benchmark for other watchmakers on how to do a reissue. The watch, all versions of it, looks amazing and should sell like hot cakes.

8 comments:

  1. This one i can get behind it! This one i am getting...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. They absolutely hit the nail on its head with this one! It's beautiful.

      Delete
  2. Wow. This is quite hot indeed! Too bad about the size increase, but I'm still getting it! :) any idea on where to get it in Europe?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Not sure about European distribution but I'm sure it will be available. I'll try to post when EU references are provided.

      Delete
  3. Really a very nice reedition. A smaller case would have been more suitable, but whatever they are very pretty anyway. My heart balances between the blue and the colored limited edition...Too much Orient watches to buy ; the end (of my wallet)is near. LoL

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Indeed Orient are not showing any mercy on our wallets lately!

      Delete
  4. are the new editions worth it ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I've not seen the new ones in person yet. But from pictures and specs, they seem very true to the original, and should be well made like modern Orients, so I'd say they are probably worth it!

      Delete