Orient's August 2024 Releases

After a mostly quiet summer, Orient are now releasing a bunch of new models – a few Bambinos ("Classic and Simple" as they like to call it), and some solar chronographs. Let's see what's new.

 

Bambino 38 On a Bracelet

First, let's look at the new Bambinos. These are variants of the 38mm model, and for the first time – we're getting the Bambino 38 on a steel bracelet.

The new bracelet seems humble but nice enough – classic and simple indeed. It definitely adds a bit of sportiness to this generally dressy watch. Having a 20mm lug width, one can always swap the bracelet for any sort of leather strap, especially with such colorful dials, but having a properly fitted steel bracelet is a great option.

We're getting three new references in this series:

·         RA-AC0M09E with a dark, "grass green" dial;

·         RA-AC0M10L with a blue (but also a bit lavender-purple, from the pictures) dial;

·         RA-AC0M11Y with what Orient refer to as "copper" dial. They do try to avoid using the term "salmon"…

All dial versions are sunburst and quite pretty. These are not overly versatile shades, but given the entry-level pricing of Bambinos, it is not inconceivable that one might wish to add 2-3 of these watches, in different colors, to their collection.

Like the previously released Bambino 38, these are all 38.4mm wide cases, 44mm lug to lug, 12.5mm thick, and powered by Orient's automatic caliber F6724. The crystal is mineral and water resistance is 3 bar.

 

Solar Chronographs

Orient are expanding their range of solar chronograph watches with nine new references. Six of these are added the brand's "Contemporary" collection, characterized by the sharp case shape.

The new watches are all different variations of the "panda" theme, with black sub-dials over various main dial colors.

·         RA-TX0301G has a gold color plated case with a champagne dial;

·         RA-TX0302S is a two-tone style watch, and a white dial;

·         RA-TX0303L has a steel case with navy-blue dial;

·         RA-TX0304L has a light blue dial;

·         RA-TX0305S is classic panda, with a white dial;

·         RA-TX0306S is the only model coming on a leather strap, with golden bezel and hands over a white dial.

The solar chronographs are powered by an Orient quartz movement, with power reserve said to last up to 6 months on full charge. The watch have a 40mm wide case that is 48.2 mm long lug to lug, and 11.1mm thick. The crystal is sapphire, and water resistance is 5 bar.

In addition, Orient also introduce three new solar chronographs in its "Diver Style" collection (aka "Mako"). While technically similar to the Contemporary models, these look and wear quite differently.

·         RA-TX0206L has a light blue dial, and black diver's bezel;

·         RA-TX0207R has a red dial and black bezel;

·         RA-TX0208L is the limited (3000 pieces) edition, dedicated to the Mako's 20^th anniversary, with a dark blue gradation dial and a black-and-blue bezel.

The Mako-style chronographs are 42.8mm wide, 48.1mm lug to lug, and 13.1mm thick. With a sapphire crystal and a screw-down crown, they have a 20 bar (200m) water resistance.

Prices for all August releases have not yet been disclosed.