M-Force.
Beast. Delta. The words alone make you think of a mighty dive watch. Now think
49mm diameter. In your imagination, this already takes shape of something worn
by a Viking, or by Arnold Schwarzenegger. Well… you're not far from the truth.
We've
covered the M-Force
lineage here on the blog before. M-Force watches, first introduced
in 1997, were named after three "M" words – Mechanical force;
Maverick design; and, Massive. Since their re-introduction in 2011 they were
also built to meet three important standards in watchmaking: ISO 6425 for
diving, ISO 764 for anti-magnetic watches, and ISO 1413 for shock resistance.
The
model we're looking at today is the 2014 model also known as the Delta version,
or the Beast II (Beast "I" being the left-hand crown M-Force released
in 2012). Specifically, the red dial model reference EL07002H, or JDM reference
WV0161EL.
The
Delta was, and to this date is, the biggest of all M-Force watches. Measuring
49.1mm across and 54.1mm long, it leaves behind models like the first Beast and
the current M-Force, measuring 47mm.
The
numbers could be a bit misleading though. Like many M-Force models, this watch
has a somewhat irregular design. The crown guard is mirrored by a similar shape
on the left side of the watch case, adding to the width; and it does not really
have lugs, instead having an integrated bracelet dipping from the edge of the
case, making it a lot more wearable than what 54mm might have you think.
Still,
it's big.
Big,
and tough. Taking photos of this piece with a toolbox wasn't so much a
stylistic decision as much as being mandated by the watch (I swear, it demanded
to be photographed this way!)
But,
okay, enough with dimensions already. What else does this watch have to offer?
The first thing you'll note is the gorgeous deep red dial, shining below the sapphire
crystal. Look at it closely, and you'll appreciate the intricate paint job. It
has a non-industrial feel, which even reminds me of some "Urushi"
lacquer-painted dials I have seen. That, along with the grooves and other marks
and textures, makes the dial stand out – particularly, but not just, under
direct sunlight.
It's
not just the color, but the dial really works well. The applied markers are big
and bold, and align perfectly with the minute track. The power reserve
indicator is nicely designed, clear but not too intrusive, as is the date window.
Other markings include the Orient and M-Force logos, "automatic" and
"200m".
Legibility
is aided by generous lume (as one would expect from a proper dive watch). Here,
Orient even went the extra mile and added lume to the power-reserve needle.
The
case is quite thoughtfully designed. As mentioned, its symmetry, other than
mirroring the crown guard, adds character, and makes room for Orient to play
with different finishing styles. So, while the top of the case, as well as the
crown-guard surface and its left-side sibling are lightly brushed, the diagonal
sides of the case are polished. This combination leaves the impression of
quality and attention to detail.
The
crown too is really nicely designed. It's big and super grippy, and fairly easy
to screw and unscrew. The red ring is both aesthetically pleasing, and serves
as a reminder for the wearer to keep the crown locked in. Note the slight
wobble of the crown: it's not freely moving as in cheaper dive watches, instead
requiring some minimal force to push around, but it's definitely noticeable.
This feature is intended to prevent a knock on the crown from damaging the
stem. Some people find this an unwanted behavior. Personally, I don't mind the
wobble, and it has no effect while the crown is locked.
The
black IP bezel is also worth mentioning, as it's among the better I've
encountered – certainly at this price range – as good as Orient's legendary Saturation
Diver. It provides a good grip and requires just the right amount of
force to turn. It clicks into position securely, and stays there with
practically zero back play.
The
bracelet is solid, comfortable and well made. The clasp allows for
micro-adjustment but does not include a diver's extension; and it is stamped,
rather than milled, thereby becoming the only part of the watch which appears
to have been compromised to meet a budget, with most other parts really
punching way above its price point.
Overall,
the Delta on its bracelet provides a well-balanced wearing experience, if you
can pull it off. I'm not sure of its weight – clearly well over 200g – so other
than size, this watch is intended for those who appreciate heft in a sports
watch. But on my 7.25" wrist it felt good, the 14.6mm thickness is
noticeable but proportional, and the case shape helps it sit nicely on the
wrist. You never forget the watch is there – but you don't mind it either. In
fact, you should very well like it!
The
M-Force Delta is powered by Orient's automatic caliber 40N5A. It provides
automatic winding and second-hand hacking, and well deserves to be called
"workhorse movement". Its specs state +25/-15 seconds per day
accuracy – mine does about +6 seconds.
The
case-back, in case you're wondering, is solid and does not offer any view of
the movement, nor does it offer any decoration. It simply bears the Orient and
M-Force logos, and the usual technical info.
The
M-Force Delta has been discontinued since 2016. You can find pre-owned ones,
either with the red dial or other variants (black and blue) at around 450-600
USD, and once in a while a NOS/NIB one might pop up as well (not necessarily at a higher price). The
rarer "Subaru STI" limited edition of the Delta is hard to find and
likely to cost much more.
If
you do buy a pre-owned watch, make sure you get enough bracelet links to match
your wrist, as the integrated bracelet cannot be replaced with after-market
substitutes.
If
you like your watches big and tough, and got a wrist to match, you would very
likely love this version of the M-Force. The combination of good looks, high
quality, and durability, are hard to beat. And even if you do beat it, the
M-Force can take the punch, easily.
