Brand file
A Japanese manufacture that makes its own automatic movements, at quartz-watch prices.
Case closed
Anyone who wants a serious first automatic at a contained price.
Anyone looking for a household name, or a sapphire crystal on every model.
Bracelets and crystals that lag behind the movements.
Investigation
Orient was founded in Japan in 1950 and is now part of the Seiko Epson group. What sets it apart at this price: the brand designs and produces its own calibres.
Most competitors buy an off-the-shelf movement. Orient’s recent models get automatic movements that can be wound by hand and whose seconds hand stops when you set the time, two features long missing from watches in this range.
The trade-off shows elsewhere. The crystal is often mineral, the original bracelets are light, and the water resistance of the dress models rules out swimming.
Selection
Photo: Tempus Shop
Automatic · 40.5 mm · 30 m · ref. AC00009N
The brand’s dress watch: domed dial, domed crystal, slim case.
Photo: Tempus Shop
Automatic · 38.4 mm · 30 m · ref. RA-BB0002S
The same watch in a smaller size, for slim wrists or lovers of classic proportions.
Photo: Tempus Shop
Automatic · 41.8 mm · 200 m · ref. RA-AA0001B
The best-equipped diver in the range, with a sapphire crystal.
Comparison
| Model | Movement | Diameter | Crystal | Water resistance | Best price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bambino | Automatic, designed by Orient | 40.5 mm | Domed mineral | 30 m | €295 |
| Bambino 38 | Automatic, designed by Orient | 38.4 mm | Domed mineral | 30 m | €310 |
| Kamasu | Automatic, designed by Orient | 41.8 mm | Sapphire | 200 m | €399 |
Catalogue
Every Orient in stock at Tempus, with today’s price.
Questions
Yes, in its price range. Orient designs and makes its own automatic movements, which is rare at this level.
Orient is a Japanese brand founded in 1950. It belongs to the Seiko Epson group.
Orient Star is the brand’s upper line: finer finishing, more sapphire crystals, higher prices.
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