Malaysia Watch Forum
Main Forums => Watch Reviews => Topic started by: danny on January 15, 2009, 09:46:39 AM
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Orient (http://www.orient-watch.com/global/index.html) is a Japanese watch company with a history dating back to 1901. Orient offer excellent quality watches at very reasonable price points. In September 2008 Seiko Epson announced (http://www.japancorp.net/Article.asp?Art_ID=19955) its intention to take full ownership control of Orient. Prior to that it had a 52% equity stake in Orient.
The Orient 300m Professional diver watch is one of the larger watches in my collection. It is a real saturation diver rated to a depth of 300m. It differs from the usual Swiss design for saturation dive watches in that the Helium escape valve is omitted.
The watch measures 45.7mm in diameter without crown and the lug to lug distance is approximately 55mm. At the side the watch measures 16.6mm thick. As can be expected from its dimensions the watch weights a hefty 233 grams with the steel bracelet. In case you haven't noticed this is not a watch to be worn to the office unless you wish to risk denting the expensive office furniture or ripping your shirt cuffs off.
The crown is signed and is located at the 4 o'clock position, which helps to alleviate the problem of excessive wrist contact as is commonly experienced with 3 o'clock crown positions, especially with large sized watches. Crown guards curve out gently from the watch casing to protect the crown.
The orange colored dial is protected by a 5.3mm thick AR coated sapphire glass. On the dial the hour, minute and second hands, together with the hour markers are coated with a generous amount of luminous paint which provide excellent luminosity in the dark. The date window is located at the nine o'clock position instead of the more conventional 3 o'clock position. As this watch is obviously not meant to be elegantly concealed by shirt cuffs, the date window position does not represent a problem. The thick and wide bezel rotates in only the anti-clockwise direction in 60 solid clicks.
Between the 12 o'clock and 2 o'clock positions is the power reserve indicator. This is not a common feature on dive watches. The indicator swings in a 120 degree arc to indicate the amount of energy reserve in the barrel spring in 10 hour increments.
In addition to the stainless steel bracelet Orient has supplied an additional polyurethane strap. For those who find the watch a bit on the heavy side can always strap on urethane strap for an instantaneous weight loss. As a nice touch, Orient has also provided a strap changing tool to simply the task of switching straps. The bracelet is equipped with a cleverly designed gliding diver's extension which can be operated without having to take the watch off the wrist. A push button release is provided to unlock the bracelet and a safety clasp prevents accidental unlocking of the bracelet.
Orient is known to utilize the "magic lever" automatic winding system in their movements. As such this self winds very efficiently. From a dead stop the watch can be easily restarted with a few swings of the arm, and once on the wrist the power reserve builds up with quickly and effortlessly.
Below are some pictures of my Orient 300m Professional Diver:
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3026/2644815679_9d03d6d25f.jpg)
Frontal view of the watch face.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3210/2649163569_513852ec0d.jpg)
Laser etched Orient logo on the crown. Notice the traditional lug hole design which simplify the task of strap changing.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3070/2650018232_deaaced791.jpg)
Small date window at the 9 o'clock position.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3019/2649185399_b0ffd9bdeb.jpg)
Laser etched Orient logo on the clasp.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3236/2650021616_ec0c856f3a.jpg)
Power reserve indicator has 10 hour increments.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3239/2649194889_fd5067a104.jpg)
The triangle marker on the bezel has a luminous pearl.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3048/2650062964_26755908e6.jpg)
Cleverly designed gliding diver's extension.
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2384/2650067922_faee7c08e8.jpg)
Details of the clasp locking mechanism.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3197/2649248505_d0b888c283.jpg)
Details of the clasp locking mechanism. Push lever for unlocking clasp.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3165/2650083972_11764ce30c.jpg)
Details of stainless steel bracelet with solid links.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3059/2649257297_3c0909b5a6.jpg)
Nicely engraved case back.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3229/2649294101_bf02106f33.jpg)
Detail of knurled screw down crown.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3190/2645700142_0c9b063f2c.jpg)
Close up of bezel and crown. Notice the knurls on the crown and coin edge on the bezel which provide firm grip.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3053/2649208809_1ec98540c7.jpg)
Close up of dial. Notice the quality dial print work and the beautiful metallic borders on the markers.
As the pictures above testify the Orient Diver is a well designed watch with excellent quality build and finish. Orient could have put a much higher price tag on this watch but by not doing so have provided one of the best value for money dive watches available in the market today.
Technical specifications taken from Orient web site:
i) Mechanical Movement : ORIENT caliber 46N4A Made in Japan
ii) Self-winding movement (Does not hack nor hand wind)
iii) Enhanced shock proof
iv) 21 jewels
v) 21600/hour vibrations
vi) Power reserve indicator
vii) Stainless steel case and bracelet
viii) One-way rotating bezel
ix) Sapphire crystal with anti-reflection coating
x) Screw caseback, screwed-down crown
xi) Special extensible buckle for metal bracelet
xii) Water resistant to 300m
xiii) Diameter 45.7mm
xiv) Thickness 16.6mm</p>
Additional specifications:
Reference no - CFD0C001M
Power reserve - 40 hours
Links and resources:
Reviews:
i) Review by Kew on Orientalwatchsite (http://www.orientalwatchsite.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=3652&start=0&st=0&sk=t&sd=a)
ii) Review by Oldecrow on Orientalwatchsite (http://www.orientalwatchsite.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=3998)
iii) Information Orient web site (http://www.orient-watch.com/global/product/pro_diver/cfd0c001mo.html#)
Information on the Magic Lever winding system:
i) Post on Orientalwatchsite by Knightwatchman (http://www.orientalwatchsite.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=2233)
ii) Article on Timezone by Rob Berkavicius (http://people.timezone.com/msandler/Articles/Workbench/Seiko/Seiko7005.html)
iii) Article on PuristsPro by Al (http://home.watchprosite.com/?show=forumpostf&fi=17&pi=2853546&ti=476741&s=0)
iv) Summary table describing Orient movements (http://watches.zsebehazy.com/orient_movements.htm)
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Very cool review :) I don't call it "brief" ;)
Like the orange dial and Power reserve indicator!
Thanks for sharing!
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Thanks Scott.
My original intent was to keep the review brief, but I guess I got carried away a little.
Orient also offers a black dialed version, but I have yet to see it locally.
For those considering the new Rolex Deep Sea, this watch gives the Rollie a serious run for the money.
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Wow Danny, this is the 1st time I notice such watch. Pls bring one for next GTG. ;D
BTW, did u take those pics? They are real nice, man.
Thx for a good effort in providing the review.
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Hi Alvin,
I'll be glad to bring the watch to our next meet up. I forgot to mention that the watch was purchased locally and not in Japan. It's an export model. The domestic model is similar in design but is labelled as Orientstar, the premium line in Japan.
I did take these pictures but they were enhanced with computer software, in my case I use Gimp.
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great review with sharp photo....
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This is a very nice watch.. i wish i can have one too..
where can i find in malaysia? How much u buy this watch? below RM2000.00??
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This is a very nice watch.. i wish i can have one too..
where can i find in malaysia? How much u buy this watch? below RM2000.00??
Hi Jeff,
Just sent you a PM with the info that you require.
:Cheers:
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Hi Danny..
Thanks for your information. i will going to have a look for it when i am free..
orient watch got less than RM2000??
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Hi Danny..
Thanks for your information. i will going to have a look for it when i am free..
orient watch got less than RM2000??
Orient is known for the value for money timepieces. Many models are available at below the price range that you're looking at.
:Cheers:
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very cool watch..... any sifus here can compare this watch with seiko MM300.. btw danny can pm me where did u buy this and how much??.
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I think the MM300 is a step higher in terms of overall finishing.
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:thumbsup:
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can pm me as i want to know how much you bought this watch and from where? thanks in advance. love the power reserve :thumbsup:
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can pm me as i want to know how much you bought this watch and from where? thanks in advance. love the power reserve :thumbsup:
Hi Gmac88,
Sent you a PM.
:Cheers:
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hi bro,very nice watch .where can i find in malaysia? How much u buy this watch?can u pm me thanks
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hi bro,very nice watch .where can i find in malaysia? How much u buy this watch?can u pm me thanks
PM sent.
:Cheers:
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thanks for ur infomation & have a nice day ;D
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today i had went to shop to asking ,this model is out of stock :'(,need to order & waiting :'(
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I actually tried on this watch when I was browsing for watches to buy for my dad (father's day). I would have to say its build quality is TOP NOTCH, feels freakin solid because it IS freakin solid.
I also tried and compared both Seiko and Orient watches in their respective price brackets. Outcome is, Orient always had better quality and bang for buck. I ended up buying an Orient automatic watch with sapphire crystal, display back, solid links and clasp, date, power reserve at quite an unbelieveable price IMO.
The model is FD0F001W on this link (non-selling orient website) http://www.orient-watch.com/products/category/item/?category_id=19
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I actually tried on this watch when I was browsing for watches to buy for my dad (father's day). I would have to say its build quality is TOP NOTCH, feels freakin solid because it IS freakin solid.
I also tried and compared both Seiko and Orient watches in their respective price brackets. Outcome is, Orient always had better quality and bang for buck. I ended up buying an Orient automatic watch with sapphire crystal, display back, solid links and clasp, date, power reserve at quite an unbelieveable price IMO.
The model is FD0F001W on this link (non-selling orient website) http://www.orient-watch.com/products/category/item/?category_id=19
Congrats on your latest acquisition. I have the black dialed model on strap. It's fantastic value for money.
I do agree that Orient watches provide a lot of bang for the buck. There's no way you can get an Swiss automatic watch with PR function at a price level even close to what you paid for the Orient.
Compared to Seiko, Orient watches are better value because they are not charging you for Daniel Wu's endorsement fees. ;D
Do post some wrist shots of your new watch.
:Cheers:
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Very detailed review with great shots! :thumbsup:
very unique divers with power reserve too! what a great find...
Orient should have given you the watch FOC and pay you for the review ;D :Cheers:
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Orient should have given you the watch FOC and pay you for the review ;D :Cheers:
Thanks Sherwyn. How I wish they would do that.
:Cheers:
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hi bro,very nice watch .where can i find in malaysia? How much u buy this watch?can u pm me thanks
PM sent.
:Cheers:
Hi Danny,
What an great review and that a nice watch from Orient. Never thought they come out such a nice one...
Can you PM me the price and location where can I get one too?
Thks!!
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I do agree that Orient watches provide a lot of bang for the buck. There's no way you can get an Swiss automatic watch with PR function at a price level even close to what you paid for the Orient.
Compared to Seiko, Orient watches are better value because they are not charging you for Daniel Wu's endorsement fees. ;D
[/quote]
:thumbsup:After reading some forums, I pulled the trigger and got an Orient Mako with the Pepsi bezel. After using it my verdict is same as yours- affordable,excellent price to value ratio, good looks and performance. It probably costs 20% of the LOWEST value swiss automatic diver.
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After reading some forums, I pulled the trigger and got an Orient Mako with the Pepsi bezel. After using it my verdict is same as yours- affordable,excellent price to value ratio, good looks and performance. It probably costs 20% of the LOWEST value swiss automatic diver.
That's great news. Congratulations and welcome to the Orient club. Do post some pictures of your Mako.
:Cheers:
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Nice review, Danny. The bezel is more complicated from the one in Sub. Can u describe bit more about the bezel. It looks like Sub-C bezel :)
Can u PM the price and place to get a good deal? Thanks
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Nice review, Danny. The bezel is more complicated from the one in Sub. Can u describe bit more about the bezel. It looks like Sub-C bezel :)
Can u PM the price and place to get a good deal? Thanks
Hi sshark,
The bezel on this watch is solidly built with 60 clicks. The bezel is very nicely finished, looks almost like ceramic, but it's not. Can't tell what material was used.
PM sent.
:Cheers:
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I was hooked by its bezel :) Not creamic and yet solid. Y can't rolex does the same for the old sub or the new sub? Is using ceramic a more elegant solution and hence pricier :)
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I was hooked by its bezel :) Not creamic and yet solid. Y can't rolex does the same for the old sub or the new sub? Is using ceramic a more elegant solution and hence pricier :)
It's all smoke and mirrors to justify the annual price increase ;D.
:Cheers:
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Do post some wrist shots of your new watch.
:Cheers:
Some shots of my Orient Mako Pepsi. !st time posting photos...
(http://i757.photobucket.com/albums/xx212/nikmz/orientmakopepsi3.jpg)
(http://i757.photobucket.com/albums/xx212/nikmz/orientmakopepsi2.jpg)
(http://i757.photobucket.com/albums/xx212/nikmz/orientmakopepsi.jpg)
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The Pro-Diver is real solid. Very good quality & very well build. :thumbsup:
BTW, nice pepsi man :thumbsup: :Cheers:
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TQ bro-IMO,this is the best dial/bezel combo for the mako. The combo and color looks understated but classy.
Most shops carry the black or the orange only.
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Yup. Hard to find these days the pepsi Mako. Most are black.
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Great review, makes me want one. Could you please let me know the shop and price where you got yours? Thanks.
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Great review, makes me want one. Could you please let me know the shop and price where you got yours? Thanks.
Hi klchew,
First of all, welcome to Malaysia Watch Forum. Glad you like the review and the watch.
I got this piece from Solar Time, Sg Wang Plaza. PM you the additional details.
:Cheers:
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May I know where can i get the Orient watch in KL or Selangor area ? If best have the specific shop name too. Thanks.
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May I know where can i get the Orient watch in KL or Selangor area ? If best have the specific shop name too. Thanks.
You been asking the same questions in different threads.
Please do some legs work in Sg Wang, a lot of shops carry it.
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Hi Ong,
Don't be so mean-la
BTW need a raincheck on the KLCC visit, had a substential outlay on impulse during the week-end.
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May I know where can i get the Orient watch in KL or Selangor area ? If best have the specific shop name too. Thanks.
PM sent.
:Cheers:
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How bout a review on the orient star 300m
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How bout a review on the orient star 300m
I'll gladly do one if you're willing to sponsor the watch. ;D
:Cheers:
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Very Nice Review.
Just found this site and just registered to post! :)
Hi Danny do you mind PM the price you got the watch for?
I am so keen on this watch and may just go get it tomorrow. :D Sadly I can't seem to find the Yellow or the Orange version in Malaysia.
Anybody seen?
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Hi Danny,
I know this post is quite some time. But I really want to know where to shop for a good Orient watch. May I know where is the shop that you get this watch? Thanks
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Hi Danny,
I know this post is quite some time. But I really want to know where to shop for a good Orient watch. May I know where is the shop that you get this watch? Thanks
Try Tokyo Street at 6th Floor Pavillion.
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Thanks CK77