Happy New Year, 2026!

It's that time of year when everyone does their recaps and "best of…" lists again, and the blog is no stranger to this old tradition. And in what has become my own little end-of-year ritual, the last post of the year would cover my completely subjective, 100% biased one-man vote for best Orient release of the year, as well as my favorite personal acquisitions.

While 2024 seemed to indicate a bit of a slowdown in creativity across the watchmaking industry, I felt 2025 did a little better. And as part of that slight upturn, Orient too introduced some nice new models. So, let's get these on the podium, shall we!

In 3^rd place – again, based on nothing more than my personal taste – the solar Mako. I find the combination of the latest 40mm Mako design with a light-powered quartz movement very sensible. It's practical, looks good, and should appeal to many consumers who aren't necessarily attracted to mechanical watches.

Second place had to go to some member of the Stretto family or another, simply for being a brand-new model family. And from that family, I chose the sun and moon version as my favorite. Because I like this very-Orient design, and I believe it fits the Stretto's line quite well.

However, the best new Orient of the year had to go to the M45 F8 Moon Phase Hand Winding watch. It is such a clean, elegant, and unique piece! Its price puts it in near direct competition with moon-phase models from the likes of Tudor, Longines, and a few other Swiss brands – and surprisingly – or not – it has nothing to be ashamed of. And at least in terms of looks and finishing, I do not think I'd trade it for any of them.

My personal collection also grew this year. The first addition to the set was actually a new 2025 release. The new Contemporary Standard could not get onto the podium, as it was not really a new model but rather new color options for the existing model, but that did not make it any less worthy! I loved the green dial, and it proved to be an excellent daily wear.

Another purchase was a vintage watch, but one that's almost as practical and wearable as a new timepiece. The 1964 Calendar Auto diver is a true classic, and finding a well-maintained one was very rewarding.

The last acquisition of 2025, which will probably be the topic of an upcoming blog post, is a "zodiac dial" Royal Orient from the late 1950s. Dressy, classy, but also a little bit funky, it's a perfect example of Orient's top-of-the-line releases from that glamorous era.

Together, these three represent some of the brand's archetypal facets: a beater, a diver, a dress watch; modern and vintage; bold and subtle.

And what about 2026? Well, I'm pretty sure the trend of increased creativity will continue, and I'm expecting some good stuff to come!

Until then, I wish all the blog readers and followers, friends, and loved ones a happy new year! See you in 2026.