New Orient Star 75th Anniversary Watches Released

Orient has just unveiled three new watches to celebrate the 75^th anniversary of its Orient Star brand. These are new versions of familiar product lines.

 

M45 F8 Moon Phase

First up is this lovely new dial variant of the brilliant M45 F8 Mechanical Moonphase Hand Winding, a model reviewed on the blog last year.

The new watch, reference RE-BW0008B, looks just as fantastic as the one reviewed, while leaning less into clean simplicity and more into elaborate intricacy. In the words of Orient, the new dial captures the quiet beauty of “the moon drifting through clouds,” inspired by moonlight breaking through a clear autumn sky. Its richly layered dial combines nanoparticle metal multilayering, dimensional printing, and a three-layer moon phase display with mother-of-pearl, creating remarkable depth and the impression of moonlight naturally emerging through the clouds.

Mechanically, it is the same as last year's moonphase release: at its heart is the in-house caliber F8A62, a hand-wound movement with a 70-hour power reserve. The 39.5 mm stainless-steel case is paired with a black cordovan leather strap, while the caseback bears the Orient Star 75th Anniversary inscription and an individual limited-edition serial number.

The watch will be limited to just 140 pieces worldwide.

 

Open Heart Pair

In addition, a pair of matching open-heart Orient Star watches was introduced: a women's Classic Semi-Skeleton, and a Modern Skeleton. Both feature a similar dial finish, which appears bluish in the images but which Orient describes as a green-gradient dial inspired by the changing colors of the aurora, transitioning from a lighter center to darker tones around the edge.

The Modern Skeleton combines this gradation with expanded openwork, a larger small-seconds display, and a new sandblasted finish, revealing more of the mechanical movement beneath the dial. The more compact Classic Semi Skeleton uses the same aurora-inspired palette, complemented by rose gold-colored accents around the openwork, crown, Roman numeral markers, and Orient Star logo. Both models also feature the serial number and the 75th-anniversary mark on their case backs.

The Modern Skeleton, reference RE-AV0140E, features the cut-out design presented earlier this year. Mechanically, it is the same, 41mm case housing the brand's automatic caliber F6F44. It will be limited to 1,600 pieces worldwide.

The Classic Semi-Skeleton, ref. RE-ND0024E, uses the old (but apparently still fitting) small cal. 55C22. This automatic movement features a 40-hour power reserve. This one is limited to just 800 pieces.

 

Orient Announces a New Model: Stretto

August is a good month for new watch announcements, and this year is no exception: Orient just announced a new model name, complete with its own new family of automatic and solar versions.

The Stretto joins the "contemporary" branch of the brand's portfolio, and as such it features  a modern design, with sharp lines and very "technical" dials, despite the use of Orient's vintage font on the limited editions.

 

Stretto Date

The "Stretto Date" will probably be the core of the family. This model uses Orient's familiar F6722 automatic movement to present the time and date, wrapped in a 38.5mm wide case. With the 45.5mm lug-to-lug dimension, 11.2mm thickness and 20mm lug width, it's a very practical size that should work for a majority of potential buyers.

The model also features sapphire as the front crystal, and mineral for the exhibition caseback. All versions are water resistant to 50m, or 5 bar.

Four references are on offer at launch:

·         RA-AC0R01S with a silver dial and gold elements (bezel, markers, crowns and more), bundled with a steel bracelet.

·         RA-AC0R02L with a blue dial, and a steel bracelet.

·         RA-AC0R03Y with a brown dial, golden bezel, and a brown leather strap.

·         RA-AC0R04N is a limited edition of 2900 units, featuring a sunburst grey dial, an orange second hand, and Orient's cursive logo.

Semi-Skeleton and Day & Night

Orient further announced two more elaborate versions of the Stretto, each presented as a single "75^th anniversary" limited edition reference. Both feature the increasingly popular cursive logo.

The Day and Night model, ref. RA-AK0311N, is limited to 2,500 units. It uses caliber F6B24, similar to Orient's older Sun and Moon watches. Case dimensions are 48mm length, 41.5mm width and 13mm thickness, and it's attached to a 22mm wide steel bracelet. And yes, it is interesting that Orient calls it "Day and Night" rather than "Sun and Moon" – possibly, to avoid confusion with the brand's Moonphase watches.

The Semi-Skeleton model, ref. RA-AR0012N, is limited to 2,800 unit. This ones uses caliber F6S22, another familiar movement, and its case is 40.8mm wide, 48mm long and only 10.9mm thick.

 

Stretto Solar

In addition to the automatic models, Orient also announced a line of Solar-powered references, clearly designed as women's watches. They are 32.1mm wide, 39mm lug-to-lug and 7.1mm thick. Lug width is 16mm and the crystal is sapphire.

Five references are presented, none limited:

·         RA-WG0601S is a two-tone model, combining steel/silver and gold throughout the case, dial and bracelet.               

·         RA-WG0602L features a blue dial and steel bracelet.

·         RA-WG0603R features a brown dial and steel bracelet.

·         RA-WG0604S with a more glitzy dial, featuring sparkling markers and elements, golden bezel, and a brown leather strap.

·         RA-WG0605L with similarly sparkling elements on a blue dial, and a (non-matching…) black strap.

Notes [August 25 Update]

First, a word on pricing. While Orient did not include pricing in the original press release, we can see that the Stretto Date is listed on Orient UK's online shop, having the same price as the Mako 40mm. The UK price for both is £350.

There is also something curious about the open-heart model. The watch listed as Stretto Semi-Skeleton looked familiar, and indeed, it is actually the same structure as the current contemporary semi-skeleton models, as you can see below; interestingly, the Peanuts version has been retro-fitted with the Stretto name and currently appears as such on Orient UK's website. The standard versions, such as the green dial shown below, were not. 

We're looking forward to seeing these Stretto watches in real life, so we can judge their quality and value for money.

Exploring Orient iO – A Tale of Two Watch Lines?

Orient is known for making fine watches, yet often having a bit of confusion surrounding their history, design choices, or even naming conventions. But every now and then, they outdo themselves by creating two entirely different watch lines under the same name – which seems to be the case with "iO".

Yes, iO is one collection, but depending on where you look, you may get a very different idea of what that means.

 

The Website iO – A Women’s Collection of Petite Solar Watches

First, let’s take a look at the Orient website, where iO is positioned as a women’s brand. The name comes from the Italian word for “I,” (says the website) reinforcing a theme of personal style and treasured things. The watches in this version of the collection are all solar-powered quartz models with sapphire crystal, designed for everyday elegance with a bit of “adult cuteness” (as Orient describes it).

The lineup consists of:

• 12 watches with round, 28mm cases
• 1 smaller round model at 25mm
• 3 watches with tonneau-shaped 24mm cases

They vary in dial colors, bracelets, and overall styling, but all stick to the same delicate sizing and refined design. These are very much in the vein of what one might expect from a classic ladies’ watch collection.

That all seems simple enough. Until we visit Orient’s online store…

 

The Online Store iO – A Customizable, Gender-Neutral Line

Click over to Orient’s official online store, and suddenly, iO becomes a completely different animal.  Even the unique "iO" logo from the ladies' collection page disappears.

The description now tells us that iO is about self-expression and inclusivity, a watch line that encourages individuality, allowing customers to mix and match cases and bands freely, targeting both male and female consumers.

Even the watch selection changes:

• Four 36mm time-and-date models
• Two 38mm chronographs
• A selection of nine different strap colors

The focus shifts to customization, with quick-release straps that let wearers swap styles on the go. The dials also take on a more conceptual aesthetic, inspired by the changing colors of the sky throughout the day, from warm sunrise tones to cool twilight shades.

And if that wasn’t enough variation, the Epson corporate website (remember, Orient is part of Epson) echoes this newer, all-gender, customizable version of iO, even emphasizing its environmentally friendly aspects, like recycled packaging.

 

So… Which iO is It?

Now, this isn’t the first time Orient’s branding and marketing have sent us on a mystery-solving adventure (is it "Classic and Simple" or Bambino…?). But in this case, it seems like we are witnessing a transition in progress.

Most likely, iO started as a women’s collection and later evolved into a modern, gender-neutral customizable series. The issue is that the old branding still lingers on the website, while the store and Epson’s corporate messaging have moved on.

This isn’t a huge deal – after all, the watches speak for themselves and easy to tell apart. Whether you prefer petite, elegant designs or versatile, mix-and-match options, there’s an iO model to suit different tastes. But a little more consistency in the messaging wouldn’t hurt!

Roundup of Orient Brazil Releases

Many Orient fans are fond of the brand's Latin offspring, Orient Brazil, despite (or maybe because of) how difficult its models are to obtain outside its home market. It has been a while since I last covered the Brazilian products, so – let's do a little roundup of what is currently on offer from that watchmaker.

Following are just a few standout items, that caught my attention, out of the brand's many watches.

First, a recent release in the Flytech line, a family of pilot watches and flight-inspired designs. Much of the Flytech line-up is quartz, but this – reference F49PP033 – is an automatic, a limited edition of 500 pieces.

Like many Orient Brazil watches, this one is fairly large, measuring 44mm in diameter. However, having a lugless titanium case and rubber band, it should be quite comfortable. There's also an inner rotating bezel, sapphire crystal, and 100m of water resistance, making it a pretty robust and functional watch. Costing the equivalent of roughly $400 USD, this is excellent value for money.

I noticed this quartz chronograph in one of the brand's ads, and I thought it was kind of funny: if you want a reasonably sized man's watch in Orient Brazil's range, go for a women's model. However, this one is still fairly large at 43mm, and with the steel case it's probably heavier than that flytech piece. In fact, on the website it is classified as a man's watch. So why did the ad present it differently?

Well, honestly it doesn't matter. You can call it a unisex model. Some of the colors (like the blue-grey ref. FTSPM004) are perfectly fitting for either gender. It looks good, fashionable, and costs only about $150 USD.

The brand has got many unmistakably feminine models too. One of these is this stylish 34mm model featuring a simple dial that's enhanced by the faceted mineral glass. I think the designer has done a good job here.

50m water resistance is considered pretty decent for this type of watch, compared with the more common 30m rating, price is in the $100 USD range, so that is a compelling package.

It appears as though Orient Brazil are also putting more effort into its solar-charged watch range, compared to the fairly minimal solar range by the Japanese parent company. Take, for instance, this really nice-looking diver, ref. MBSS1471 (same for both colors, curiously).

It's big and bulky with a 47mm wide steel case, features a nicely textured dial and 200m water resistance. At around $180, it is an interesting option for anyone looking for a quartz diver-style watch, and is quite unlike anything on the Japanese range.

A different type of solar watch is this family of elegant chronographs. They are more reasonably sized at 42mm, feature a nicely curved mineral crystal, and are very different from the brand's more masculine sports watches.

Once again Orient Brazil is making references a rather obscure thing, as both blue and grey models on the bracelet are ref. MBSSC265 while the one on leather is different (MTSCC050). Anyway the all cost about the same, around $220 USD.

Another solar model that I really liked is this digital-analog watch. Orient Japan used to have these, but do not produce any at the moment. Orient Brazil have numerous ana-digi options, but this one I think stands out with its sleek design.

At around $220 you're getting a 42mm case, and very retro look somewhat reminiscent of Seiko's "recraft" range. I particularly like this green-dial reference GTSPA001.

Here's a nice quartz (regular, not solar) model that caught my attention. Like some of the other quartz pieces in the brand's catalog, it walks a fine line between "fashion watch" design and true brand DNA, but at least in the brand's advertising pictures, the end result seems quite attractive.

The watch case is 44mm of steel, it's rated to 100m water resistance, and at under $100, it presents a cool offering with its chunky design and interesting dial/hands combination. You get reference MBSS1486 with the dark grey dial, ref. MBSS1473 with a blue dial, and – if you really want to go overboard with this – the gold-plated MGSS1272 for an additional $40 or so.

Still not impressed? Well, maybe this will do it: Orient Brazil also has an XL line, for those who find 47mm watches puny. For instance, check out this 52mm beast featuring a chronograph and three time-zone displays. If you get stranded in the jungle and need rescue, this watch can also serve as a helicopter pad.

Why do I like this? Maybe because it reminds me of Orient's classic Mechatrenics. Anyway, you can choose your helipad colors, with such options as the all-white ref. MBSCT005, all-black MPSCT004, or others. At a little over $270, this is a great price per m².

The Tristar range has, for decades, been a go-to product line for customer seeking a simple yet reliable watch at decent price. While unfortunately, it is now gone from Orient Japan's catalog, Orient Brazil still has a range of tristar-badged watches.

The one Tristar model I liked in particular was this barrel-cased series, a shape sadly also missing in Japanese production nowadays, and I have to admit to particularly eyeing the golden one (ref. F49GG030). The watch has a modest 40mm wide case and a cool retro look (not unlike that ana-digi model discussed above). Costing between $200 (steel) - $220 (gold plated), this is a lovely design and, assuming the brand's usually good build quality, value for money worthy of the Tristar moniker.

Wrapping up this review is the skeleton watch. While Orient Japan now only offers skeleton watches under the Orient Star brand, starting at over $1,500 USD for any of the new models, this here will set you back a mere 300 – 350 USD.

Indeed it's not as impressive as any of the Orient Star watches, but still: a 42mm case with a Japanese automatic movement from the Epson group, visible from the front in raw metal color (reference NH7SS004), gold toned (ref. NH7SS005 or NH7SS006) or black IP plated (NH7YY001).

 

All pictures are taken from the Orient Brazil website and advertisements 

Orient's Direct-Read Watches

When one looks for unconventional watch designs, one usually need look no further than Orient. Historically, "Jump Hour" watches provided a cool alternative to the standard hour-hand, minute-hand setup – and Direct Read provided a simpler substitute to Jump Hour movements.

Before continuing, it might be worthwhile to clarify the distinction: while both types of display show the hours and minutes using rotating discs with digits printed on them, Jump Hour keeps the hour indication more or less immobile until the minute disc returns to zero and pushes the hour forward. With Direct Read, the hour wheel just keeps turning, in the same way as the hour hand would normally.

While a Jump Hour mechanism is easier to read, as the hour is steady, and more akin to digital displays, Direct Read watches are simpler to build, since they just use regular movements and replace hands with discs. Orient typically leans toward simpler movements, at least in non-Star models – so when looking to provide a "mechanical digital" design, sometime in the mid-2000s, it adopted the Direct Read approach.

Reading this display is, well, fairly direct and simple – though it requires some getting used to. In the picture above, for instance, the time is about 10:08:36. You can see the thin red horizontal line pointing between 5 and 10 on the inner circle; look more closely and it's just past the 8. Those are the minutes. The thicker red line you see is actually the second hand.

It's funny as this would be the time you'd normally see a watch in Orient catalogs – with the hands arranged in the "smiley" configuration. Of course it's quite meaningless when no hands are involved…

The date wheel is standard, appearing here as the outermost disc. The date is read as usual through the small window at the bottom.

During the roughly ten years of producing direct read watches, Orient made three main models, each having numerous versions differing mainly in colors and choice of strap/bracelet. All of them have been discontinued a few years ago.

The most familiar model, and the one that's easier to find online nowadays, is the lugless design also known as the "Orbit" (a nickname given to it by Orient USA I believe).

The Orbit's case was 35mm wide and 40mm long, and 12mm thick. Fairly modest dimensions that were given enhanced wrist presence by its 28mm lug width, fitted out of the box with a double-hole strap that did not taper too much.

Inside the Orbit was Orient's caliber 48743, a reliable and robust movement that had no problem turning those discs around. Cal. 487 variants are typically identified in Orient's references as "ER". When searching the web for this model, you could look for codes including "ERAM" or "ERAK", as well as "Orbit".

The same movement was placed in a more conventional case to produce the "Masquerade". It had considerably larger dimensions – 35.5mm width, 47mm lug to lug, and 13.5mm thickness. The strap was narrower than the Orbit's though, at 25mm, enabling a single-hole structure.

When searching the web for this model, you could look for codes including "ERAP" or "Masquerade". Note that some sellers incorrectly refer to all Direct Read models by this name, so you might find some Orbits that pop up when looking for the Masquerade.

Another important note (that is, if you care about these things…) concerns the movement. Apparently, at some point, this model was mistakenly advertised as utilizing Orient's 46S50 movement, and this mistake was repeatedly copied onto various articles and publications. That is not true – 46S50, recognizable by having "FH" in the reference, was a completely different, no-date, small seconds caliber, used solely in semi-skeleton watches.

Orient also produced a smaller version of the lugless model, a "mini-Orbit" if you will, designated as a women's watch. This model looked almost identical to the larger Orbit, having similar proportions and dial layout. It was, however, only 28mm wide and 31mm long.

This model had a lug width of only 20mm – narrow enough to allow for wearing it on a bracelet. The watch was indeed offered having both a steel bracelet and a leather strap, similar to its bigger sibling.

Orient fitted the watch with its caliber 557, a smaller movement typically reserved for ladies' watches (and which, despite its age, is still being used in some current models). Cal. 557 has the same 40 hour power reserve as the larger caliber 487, however its accuracy is not so impressive at +40 / -30 seconds per day, compared to the 487's +25/-15.

Caliber 557 is identified by the letter "NR", and this model's reference would typically include NRAK. When searching or shopping for an Orbit, make sure you're looking at the right model – so you don't end up ordering a watch that's too small, or too big.

Prices for pre-owned Orient direct-read models typically range between USD 100-250. Personally I think paying up to USD 200 would be sensible, for a watch in mint condition.

 

Photos in this post were taken from various old Orient publications and sale ads.

 

Orient "Stylish and Smart" Disk

A few years ago I was reminiscing about how it started, "it" being my deep dive into the history of Orient. I can add one more detail to the story now…

As I mentioned in that post I linked above, I was already collecting watches for a while before my interest in Orient got reignited. The trigger for this renewed interest was, of all models – no other than the humble Disk.

The Disk was introduced as part of Orient's early 2010s "Stylish and Smart" collection, which consisted of fun, mostly colorful and unconventionally designed watches. 

At the time I was hoping to add this sort of unassuming, inexpensive watch to my collection, so I hurried (well, not hurried. But eventually went) to the local Orient AD, just to find out they actually had no Orients on display, and the salesperson – of a shop belonging to the official brand importer mind you! – tried to talk me out of this watchmaker's products altogether.

Well, me being me, and that salesperson being as obnoxious as he was, the result of the brief conversation was the exact opposite of what he'd pushed for. I decided I was going to get an Orient, and that it was time to dive a little deeper into the Japanese brand's line-up and see what they've been up to.

Anyway, back to the Disk watch. The first batch of Disks was released in late 2011. Six references were presented, all sharing one key feature: the hour hand was replaced with a rotating disk that had an arrow-shaped cutout. That cut-out actually served as the "hand", pointing toward the hour markers, which were similarly cut out instead of applied on top.

Technically, this was very simple, but quite innovative. The color under the cut-outs added some style, thus fitting the "Stylish and Smart" tagline. The six versions presented differed in their dial color schemes, as well as the case and bracelet or strap colors.

Another notable feature shared by the different models was the tinted case-back crystal, which revealed the movement – in this case, as in all later men's Disk models, Orient's automatic caliber 48743. This movement did not feature hand-winding and hacking.

In 2012, Orient released a couple more versions aiming to be even more playful in their use of color. The "Rainbow" Disk had a multi-color plate under the dial, so that the hour markers were in all the colors of the rainbow, and the hour "hand" would change its color to match, as it rotated. The "Tricolor" Disk was a bit more restrained: its hour hand would simply switch from a red rectangle and blue triangle to a blue rectangle and red triangle, gradually as it moved around.

The overall construction of the watch was similar to the first models. All of these versions featured the same 41.4mm wide case, stretching 47.4mm lug to lug, and having 11.3mm of thickness. The lug width of all these models is 22mm.

In 2012 Orient did the sensible thing and presented the women's model of the Disk. Five references were released, featuring different color schemes. Some of the designs were unique to the new references, and some were made to match the men's watches, as "pairs". A new men's reference, WV0821ER, was introduced as a white-dial version of the Rainbow, creating an additional pair.

Technically similar to the original model, the women's Disk watch was smaller in size (measuring 29mm across, and 35mm lug to lug), and used the smaller, no-date automatic caliber 55542.

The final batch of Disks arrived in 2014. This time, the twist was in the shape of the hour markers. These were cut out as numbers, instead of simple sticks. The hour hand was also changed, now made of three squares.

Four references were presented under the new "Typography" Disk line-up, three men's and one women's.

All these models were originally sold as fairly inexpensive models, generally under 200 USD. However, as the Disk model was discontinued, and is gradually becoming harder to purchase, online prices are going up, and I'm seeing both NOS and pre-owned ones asking for much higher prices. I think a new or "as new" Disk at no more than 200-250 USD, can still make a nice addition to one's collection.

 

Pictures that appear in this post were taken from Orient website and catalogs.

Orient Presenting a Trio of Models Inspired by The Sea and Sky

In recent years Orient has adopted the habit of releasing a bunch of limited edition Orient Star models under the motto of "Emotional Colors", inspired by blue shades of the sea and sky. They did it around this time of year in 2019, in 2020, and in 2021. And now autumn is back and so is the seasonal blossom of blue(ish) watches.

This time round, three models are presented: Modern Skeleton and Semi Skeleton from the Contemporary Collection, and Semi Skeleton for her from the Classic Collection. This year, Orient chose a color scheme closer to teal, in fact featuring gradient colored dials with an emerald green center and navy blue outer edge. Rose gold colored bezels complement the dials nicely.

The pictures below, of previous years' equivalent releases, show how the tone of blue is different every year.

Interestingly, just like in other announcements of recent days, Orient offers a different packaging for some of its JDM releases: Having both a leather strap and steel bracelet, while the global market gets either one or the other.

The references included in the new release are:

·         RK-AV0120L: Modern skeleton, with a steel bracelet, limited to 300 numbered units for the Japanese market.

·         RE-AV0120L: Modern skeleton, with a steel bracelet, limited to 600 numbered units for global distribution.

·         RK-AV0121L: Modern skeleton, with a steel bracelet and leather strap, limited to 250 units exclusively on the brand's Prestige Shops.

·         RK-AT0015L: Semi skeleton, with a leather band, limited to 250 numbered units for the Japanese market.

·         RE-AT0015L: Semi skeleton, with a leather band, limited to 350 numbered units for global distribution.

·         RK-AT0016L: Semi skeleton, with both steel bracelet and leather strap, limited to 200 units exclusively on Prestige Shops.

·         RK-ND0017L: Ladies' Semi Skeleton, with a steel bracelet, limited to 150 units for the Japanese market.

·         RE-ND0017L: Ladies' Semi Skeleton, with a steel bracelet, limited to 150 units for the global market.

·         RK-ND0018L: Ladies' Semi Skeleton, with a steel bracelet and leather strap, limited to 100 units and exclusive to Prestige Shops.

Many options then, but they all boil down to three basic designs.

The technical specs of each release is essentially the same as their base models. Prices, at the current rate of the Japanese Yen, are roughly 700 USD for the Modern Skeleton, 550 USD for the Semi Skeleton, and 450 USD for the ladies model. The Prestige Shop versions would sell at only slightly higher prices.

 

Orient Star Ladies' Classic Semi Skeleton Hands On Review

Yes, that’s right. After almost four years of activity of Orient Place Blog, and having often posted updates of new women's model releases by Orient, we're finally going hands-on with a ladies watch.

The watch at hand is the Orient Star "Classic Semi Skeleton", reference RE-ND0004S (or, RK-ND0004S in Japan). Note there is a new line of Classic Semi Skeletons, that we've mentioned before; the model we're looking at now is the older version – the classic classic semi skeleton, if you will – which of course is still relevant and on sale.

The Classic Semi Skeleton is immediately recognizable as an Orient Star, and not just because of the logo. The case shape, curved silvery dial with roman numerals, and of course that "open heart" aperture, are obvious giveaways. It essentially an Orient design in a smaller package, which makes sense as Orient often likes to have its ladies' models function within his-and-hers watch pairs.

The smaller package, in this case, is 30.5mm wide, and 36.6mm long lug to lug – same as the newer Classic Semi Skeletons. This is indeed a very "classic" size for women's watches, whereas many brands nowadays offer larger diameters, which are considered as more modern or sportier.

While small, the watch retains the familiar Orient Star attention to details. The small crown is signed, as is the folding clasp. The leather strap is supple, and very similar in style to straps provided with the larger watches – though probably a little less padded, to keep in proportion with the 14mm lug width.

Diving into the finer details does not disappoint either. The dial features a well made pearlescent texture and fine black print. The parts of the movement visible through the open heart are nicely polished. Nothing seems too coarse or neglected.

The exhibition case-back reveals the tiny automatic movement, caliber 55C40. The movement itself is not particularly decorated, and I doubt any decoration would be visible to the naked eye anyway – and at this price point, it is absolutely fine. The golden rotor is lovely though, and is probably what makes checking the backside of this watch worthwhile at all.

Speaking of movement, this is where the biggest difference between "his" and "hers" models lies. Orient usually boasts very decent accuracy, with most Orient Star models testing to do around 6-7 seconds per day (and an official +25/-15 range). Caliber 55C settles for a stated +40/-30 seconds per day, and since there's no second hand – its actual accuracy does not matter much.

On one hand, this could make sense considering many women would view their watch as jewelry more than a time-telling device; on the other hand, the same can be said for many male watch-owners. I suppose women who are true watch aficionados will see this as a downside. Of course, this can simply be attributed to constraints resulting from the smaller size of the watch.

Okay then, technically it's all fine, the quality is there. But what do potential buyers think about the watch? I turned to my wife for some answers. It was interesting to learn how different her view of the matter is.

While she appreciated certain design elements, and took my word for the watch being of high quality and very reliable, she takes a more holistic approach. Viewing the watch as a whole, what the missed most was a bracelet; it then occurred to me that of the different watches I got her over the years, as well as ones she got for herself, she only keeps using the ones with a bracelet. Preferably a shiny one.

I wonder now, if women who view the watch more as jewelry, tend to prefer a bracelet over a leather strap; and if those who prefer a leather strap, are more likely to tend to the functional side of the watch, and may care more for the lack of a second hand?

Another point she made was, if she wears a watch she wants to be able to keep it on, everywhere – including the swimming pool, for instance. Clearly a leather strap limits the "go anywhere" option.

This OS Classic Semi Skeleton is officially priced at around $450 USD, and can usually be found at around 350. That is a good price for a well-made automatic watch from a reputable brand.

If you are looking to get yourself a classically styled mechanical watch, then this Orient Star makes a very compelling proposition.

If you are buying this watch for your significant other, you may well be in the right direction, just make sure she will be fine with the strap option, and that she does not mind reading the time to within the nearest minute only. Otherwise, your best option would be the Orient Star "Standard" ladies' watch, a sportier line of models ranging between 33.5-34.5 mm wide cases, all of which equipped with steel bracelets and featuring a date wheel and a second hand.

The blog would like to thank Orient – Epson Europe for providing us this Orient Star Classic Semi-Skeleton watch for review.