Top 11 Best Orient Watches [List & Guide]

When it comes to affordable watches, Orient watches are one of the most popular options. There is a huge difference between cheap and affordable watches, and Orient is certainly the latter.

There are plenty of cheap watches on the market, but Orient is not just cheap, they are most known for making watches at affordable prices that are high-quality, well-built, and overall just offer great value for money.

Before we dig into our top picks for the best and most popular Orient watches, let’s have a look at some background and details about Orient.

Orient watches history & background

Orient is a Japanese watch brand that was founded in 1950. Seiko, which probably is the most popular Japanese watch brand in the world, is often compared with Orient for a number of reasons.

Both brands make watches in a similar price category, and the quality and finish of their product are rather similar. Today, orient is most known for affordable watches that offer quality, price, and accuracy, and today, they have established themselves as one of the largest mechanical watchmakers in the world. In fact, Orient is a brand that is known and appreciated all around the world, and also has gotten more recognition and appreciation in the last couple of years.

If there is one thing that the Japanese are known for, it is their pride and strives for making high-quality products, and this is something that is noticeable in many Japanese watchmakers, including Orient.

Many Orient watches are powered by mechanical movements, which is a great thing for watch enthusiasts, as it means you get a watch with fine mechanical Japanese craftsmanship. What you will also notice when looking closer at Orient watches is that they are extremely competitive in terms of price. And it is particularly when you look at their quality and everything that they offer, in relation to their price, that you’ll understand just how great of a value they are, and in turn also why they are so popular.

The bottom line is, it’s easy to see why the Orient watches are so immensely popular, and in this article, we will take a look at the most popular watches from this Japanese brand. Orient really has a lot to offer when it comes to its models, so you can be sure to find one that suits your style, taste, and preference. Dive watches, dress watches, sports watches, and everything in between.

Best Orient watches

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Orient AC08 Version 4 FAC08002F0

The Orient FAC08002F0 is a stylish and elegant dress watch that is truly mesmerizing and that will truly catch the attention of anyone who looks at it.

What obviously stands out about the watch is its graded ”fumé” dial which shifts from light green at the center and black at the very edges. This creates a very vibrant dial that reflects the light beautifully, which is also contributed by its metallic finish.

The case is colored yellow gold and as you may know, the combination of yellow gold and green goes very well together.

The watch has a very simple and minimalistic design, which is complemented by a striking dial. Its sleek case design and also simple dial with only a date window at 3 o’clock make it perfect for formal occasions. The watch is powered by an automatic movement and has a water resistance of 30m, which in practice essentially means that it is splash-resistant. It has a diameter of 42mm.

Specifications

Movement: Automatic Movement, caliber F6724
Crystal: Mineral Crystal
Water resistance: 30m
Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 11.8mm

Orient Mako II Automatic Diving Watch

The Orient Mako II comes in several different versions and is one of the most popular watches from Orient, and in turn also one of the most popular affordable dive watches on the market.

And really, it’s easy to see why. The Orient Mako II is a well-built and solid timepiece that offers exceptional value for money. First off, it has a classic dive watch design with all of the design traits that you can expect from a traditional diver’s watch. A sporty case, a legible dial, and a unidirectional rotating bezel.

The case has a diameter of 41.5mm and is made of stainless steel. It is presented on a sporty stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp.

Positioned at 3 o’clock, it has a day and date window which is convenient for everyday wear.

The watch is powered by Orient’s automatic F6922 caliber which is robust, durable, and long-lasting. This watch is available in different versions and iterations so you can choose the version which suits your taste and preference the most.

Specifications

Crystal: mineral crystal
Movement: Japanese automatic
Water resistance: 200m/660 feet
Movement: Automatic F6922 caliber
Lug to lug: 47mm
Thickness: 13mm
Diameter: 41.5mm

Orient Kamasu Mako III RA-AA0001B19B Automatic

The Orient Kamasu Mako III RA-AA0001B19B is a popular watch with a classic dive-watch-inspired design. It has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 42mm and a thickness of 13mm.

It offers everything you would expect from a dive watch meaning a unidirectional 60-minute rotating bezel, a sporty and iconic design, and a durable and robust build quality. It is powered by Orient’s durable automatic movement and offers a water resistance of 200m/660 feet. The movement has a power reserve of 40 hours.

As a dive watch should, it puts emphasis on legibility through large hour markers and hands applied with luminescent material for improved legibility in Lowe-lit conditions.

This is one of Orient’s most popular dive watches, and one of the primary reasons is their price. For just over 100 dollars, you get a well-built, robust, and good-looking automatic timepiece that will continue to tick for years. In this price range, there are few watches that can match the impression of quality and finish that the RA-AA0001B19B does.

Specifications

Lug width: 22mm
Crystal: Sapphire
Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 13mm
Water resistance: 200m/660 feet
Movement: automatic movement
Jewels: 22
Power reserve: 40 hours

Orient Sun and Moon Version 3 Automatic

Another popular watch from Orient is the Sun and Moon Version 3. With its slim design and classy look, it is suitable for formal occasions and when you want to be a bit dressed up.

The best part is that the watch is available in a number of different versions with different dial colors and in either gold or steel.

The watch has a case with a diameter of 41.5mm, and since it isn’t a sports watch, its water resistance of 50 meters means that it is splash-proof but shouldn’t be submerged underwater. But that should be fine for a dress watch since you probably won’t be in contact with water anyways.

What stands out about this watch and takes it from being just a regular and boring dress watch is its moon phase indicator. In addition to this, it also has a day and date indicator. Inside sits the automatic F6B24 caliber which has hacking seconds and manual winding functions. Another nice feature is that it has a quickset function that makes it easier to adjust the day and date.

Apart from just the functions presented on the dial, looking closer will reveal a number of beautiful details. The black dial is more traditional and the blue dial version has a striking sunburst finish. The white and beige dials, however, have a circular striped pattern around the outer edge of the dial, and in the center, it has a texture that provides great depth.

On top of the case sits a sapphire crystal which is a nice detail that we mostly find in more expensive watches.

Specifications

Diameter: 41.5mm
Water resistance: 50m/165 feet
Crystal: Sapphire
Day & Date Calendar
Movement: Automatic caliber F6B24 with hacking seconds and manual winding functions

Orient Bambino Version IV Automatic

The Orient Bambino Version IV is an elegant watch that is designed to work great for everyday wear. However, with its more dressy appearance, it is most suitable for people who prefer watches that are less sporty.

Just like many of Orient’s watches, it is available in a few different iterations. It has a diameter of 41mm and a water resistance of 30m/100 feet which means it can withstand splashes or brief immersion in water, but it is not suitable for swimming or bathing.

Inside, you’ll find an automatic Japanese movement that is sure to continue to tick for many years to come.

A signature trait of this watch is that it has a domed crystal which looks gives it a unique and classy look.

Orient hasn’t forgotten about the details of the dial with this watch. The dial has applied diamond-shaped hour markers made of metal which provides depth but is also beautifully finished. The hands have a very elegant design too.

At 3 o’clock, it has a date window which is a convenient feature.

Specifications

Diameter: 41mm
Movement: Japanese Automatic
Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
Crystal: domed mineral glass
Movement: automatic hand-winding and hacking seconds

Orient 2nd Gen Bambino Version III Automatic

The Orient Bambino 2nd generation Version III is a stylish and elegant watch that offers great value for money. With its simple case design and minimalistic dial, it is the perfect everyday watch for those who prefer something a little more dressy.

The watch has a 40.5mm case which should work for most wrists together with its thickness of 11.8mm. Because the bezel is thin and the lugs small, it puts all the focus on the dial which is the star of the show.

And whilst the dial is relatively simple and minimalistic, it is beautifully executed with just enough details to make it beautiful and interesting. And in traditional fashion, you’ll find a date window positioned at 3 o’clock. On top of the case sits a domed mineral crystal which gives it a unique visual effect. The domed dial also adds some depth. The watch has simple and refined rectangular metal hands and thin rectangular hour markers.

A dressy watch doesn’t really need a water-resistance, and this watch is water resistant to 30m/100 feet, meaning it is splash-resistant, but not suitable for swimming or diving.

All in all, the watch has a very contemporary look to it, whilst combining classic design language and modern build technology and quality.

Specifications

Diameter: 40.5mm
Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
Crystal: domed mineral crystal
Movement: Japanese automatic movement caliber F6724
Diameter: 40.5mm
Thickness: 11.8mm

Orient Mako XL Automatic Diving Watch

The Orient Mako XL is the perfect watch for those who enjoy dive watches but prefer larger watches that have a bigger size and greater wrist presence.

The watch has all of the classic dive watch elements but is presented in a larger format with a diameter of 44.5mm. This is a dive watch on steroids, making it even sportier and more aggressive.

As a true diver’s watch, it has serious water resistance, 200m/600 feet, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and an emphasis on legibility.

It really is easy to see why this watch is so popular, and since it is available with different dial and bezel colors, you can be sure to find one you like.

The watch has large hour markers applied to the dial with luminescent applied to it. The hands are large too and also have luminescence on them. At 3 o’clock, you have a day and date window, and inside the watch ticks an automatic movement.

To go with the sporty theme, it is presented on a sporty stainless steel bracelet with a fold-over clasp double push-button safety clasp.

Its larger size makes it a watch that is not for everyone, but if you enjoy sporty and large watches with a wrist presence, then this is a great option. Do we have to mention the fact that it offers exceptional value for money?

Specifications

Diameter: 44.5mm
Crystal: Mineral glass
Water resistance: 200m/660 feet
Movement: Automatic
Thickness 13.3mm

Orient 2nd Gen Bambino Ver. 2 Automatic Dress Watch

Orient Bambino 2nd generation version 2 is another dressy watch that works great for everyday wear. In particular, its elegant design makes it great for more formal occasions.

The watch has a diameter of 40.5mm and pays utmost attention to the details of its dial. Its domed mineral crystal contributes to its elegant and refined look.

Speaking of the dial, it has beautiful applied metal Roman hour markers which are discreet yet thoughtfully integrated into the dial. At 3 o’clock, we find a date window that is convenient for everyday wear. The thin, beautifully shaped hands match the hour markers perfectly and also look really classy. The dial has a metallic sunburst finish which is discreet yet really beautiful. It also reflects the light beautifully.

Inside is the automatic Orient caliber F6722 which is sturdy and durable. This movement has both a hacking and manual winding function. The movement has proven to be robust and durable, able to continue to tick for years.

The watch has a water resistance of 30m(100ft) which isn’t great, but we don’t expect a dress watch to have good water resistance either.

Specifications

Movement: Automatic caliber F6724, hand-winding, and hacking function
Movement: Automatic caliber F6724
Crystal: Domed Mineral Crystal
Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
Diameter: 40.5mm
Thickness: 11.8mm

Orient Ray II Automatic Diving Watch

Orient Ray II is a popular dive watch from Orient that offers exceptional value for money. At a price of just over 100 dollars, you get a robust, well-built, and well-finished automatic watch with a durable movement and a finish that punches well above its own weight and what you usually see in watches at this price point.

Inside the watch beats the automatic Orient caliber F6922 which incorporates both hand-winding and hacking movement functions. The movement has a power reserve of 40 hours.

The watch has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 41.55 which is more or less a standard size for sporty dive watches. As a dive watch, it has a water resistance of 200m/660 feet, a screw-down crown, great legibility, and a unidirectional rotating bezel.

The dial has large applied hour markers and hands with applied luminescent material for improved legibility in low-lit conditions.

This is a timeless and sporty timepiece that will work great for everyday wear if you are looking for something durable that will be a trusted companion through all of life’s events.

Specifications

Movement: Automatic, caliber F6922. Hand-winding, hacking feature
Power reserve: 40 hours
Water resistance: 200m/660 feet
Thickness: 13mm
Diameter: 41.5mm
Crystal: Mineral Crystal

Orient Bambino small seconds RA-AP0003S10B

This minimalistic dressy timepiece is perfect if you want a high-quality affordable and simple watch for everyday wear.

What stands out about this Bambino is its small seconds sub-dial positioned just above 6 o’clock.

The case has a diameter of 40mm and a thickness of 12mm which will fit most people’s wrists. Not too small for everyday wear, and not too big to work as a dress watch.

On top of the case sits a domed mineral crystal.

Another nice feature that watch enthusiasts will appreciate is the fact that it has a see-through case back that allows you to see the movement beating inside. The movement inside is the automatic Orient caliber F6222 which has both hacking seconds and manual-winding functions.

Since this is a dressy watch and not a sports watch, its water resistance is only 30m/100.

Specifications

Movement: Automatic Orient caliber F6222
Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
Crystal: Domed Mineral Crystal
Jewels: 24
Thickness: 12mm
Diameter: 40mm

Orient ‘Bambino Open Heart’ Automatic

Last but not least, we have the Bambino Open heart, which is a spiced-up version of the minimalistic and classic Bambino.

The watch has a domed dial and domed mineral glass sitting on top. The dial has a cutout in the dial which allows you to see the movement inside and appreciate a mechanical piece of craftsmanship of the Orient caliber F6T22. This is the only Bambino to not feature a date display. The watch has applied diamond-shaped metal hour markers and diamond-shaped hands.

The case measures 40.5mm in diameter and has a thickness of 12mm, making it perfect for everyday wear, and both formal and casual occasions.

This is a great timepiece for watch enthusiasts who appreciate mechanical timepieces and fine mechanics, but at the same time want an elegant and classy timepiece.

Specifications

Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
Diameter: 40.5mm
Movement: automatic Orient caliber F6T22
Thickness: 12mm

Orient watches buyer’s guide

Orient has a large collection of all kinds of different timepieces, from elegant dress watches to functional tool watches. There are quartz watches (although the brand is most known for primarily making mechanical watches), chronograph watches, and everything in between. There really is an Orient watch for everyone. The best part is that when you buy an Orient watch, you know that you are getting a high-quality timepiece that offers exceptional value for money. And this is one of the most important reasons why Orient has come to become so popular today.

Because the selection of Orient watches is so large, it can be quite difficult to decide which one you are going to opt for. To help you with your decision, some of the most important factors to consider are:

Size
Functions
Movement
Color
Strap/bracelet
Purpose
Usage areas
Style and design
Water-resistance

Let’s look closer at these factors.

Size

The size is of course also something that needs to be taken into account when buying a watch. Orient makes small, dressy watches, but also large and bulky watches. Oftentimes, the size of the watch correlates with the style and purpose of the watch, but certainly not always (more on that later). Therefore, think about your wrist and which size you are comfortable with on your watch so you can narrow down your choices.

Functions

As you have seen, Orient watches are available with all kinds of different functions. Some display nothing more than the time, but others have a chronograph, moon phase, date function, etc. Consider if there is a particular function you simply must have in your watch. A lot of people have a date function on their list of criteria so they can quickly know what date it is by glancing at their wrist.

Movement

Orient focuses on making mechanical, automatic movements, but they also make hand-wound and quartz movements. Since Orient is highly popular amongst watch enthusiasts, a lot of people gravitate towards an automatic watch, but it all depends on your taste and preferences. In addition, Orient is Japan’s largest producer of mechanical watches, so when buying a watch from Orient, it makes the most sense to buy a mechanical watch. This is the craft and skill that Orient has perfected, and it is also thanks to its large production that the company can keep the costs down whilst maintaining high quality. The company is today in the same family as Seiko and puts great effort into research and development, and in improving their movements. Orient only makes in-house movements, which is yet another testimony of their strive for perfection.

The benefit of making them in-house is that each part is built by a single manufacturer, allowing them to keep consistently high quality with great quality controls.

Color

As you have seen in the list above, Orient watches come in all kinds of different colors. The best part is that Orient watches are often available in a number of iterations, so if you like a particular style, you can often find color variations of it, making it easier to find the one you like the most. If you want to keep it simple and traditional, black or dark blue are popular choices. But if you want to be bolder and like watches that stand out from the ordinary, you can easily find, for example, green or bright blue timepieces.

Strap/bracelet

Usually, it is a question of metal bracelet or leather strap. Ultimately, it comes down to preference, but also how you plan to wear it. For example, if you are looking for an elegant dress watch, a leather strap makes more sense. On the contrary, if you want a robust and durable sports watch, a metal bracelet will be the go-to option. In general, leather straps are more classic and formal than metal bracelets.

Purpose and usage areas

The purpose of the watch and the way you intend to use it are one of the most important factors. Obviously, if you want a watch for formal occasions, a dress watch will be the better alternative. But if you want a watch that is versatile and that you can wear to the beach and on other casual occasions, you want something more sporty that is appropriate for these occasions. Deciding on the type of watch you are looking for will help you decide whether you need something elegant or sporty, and in turn, narrow down your alternatives.

Water-resistance

This touches a little on what we discussed above, but depending on how you intend to use the watch, the water resistance may or may not be important. In an elegant dress watch, the water resistance isn’t that important. However, if you plan to go swimming or even diving, you need a watch that can handle water properly.

Is Orient a good watch?

Whilst price is often a reflection of quality, it doesn’t mean you cannot get high-quality products at affordable prices. And this is exactly what Orient proves, and it is also one of the key reasons why the brand is so immensely popular.

Orient is a popular brand for affordable mechanical timepieces. They’re also known for manufacturing their movements in-house, which is super impressive

As mentioned, Orient primarily focuses on mechanical watches and is the largest Japanese manufacturer of mechanical watches. As a result, Orient is considered one of the best brands for affordable mechanical timepieces today. They are known for quality and impressive complications for a surprisingly low price. A lot of people even compare Orient with Swiss watch brands due to the finish and quality they offer, and you get all of this at a low price. This is hard to beat and to the question of whether or not Orient is a good watch, we can definitely say yes.

Apart from quality, finish, and performance, Orient makes some really stylish timepieces. With a focus on classic and traditional designs, often leaning towards the dressier side, you have a nice selection of strikingly beautiful timepieces that will complement any formal outfit beautifully and look much more luxurious than their prices suggest.

How much is an Orient watch?

With so many different watches to choose from, Orient watches vary in price. In general, we can say that Orient watches cost between 100 and around 700 dollars. It is very rare to have watches from Oris priced higher than this. With this price point, it’s safe to say that Orient watches are extremely affordable, but price without quality is nothing, and that’s really where Orient sets itself apart from many other competitors. You’re getting serious quality from seriously attractive prices.

Is Orient a luxury watch brand?

Due to their affordable prices, Orient cannot really be called a luxury watch brand. But with many of Orient’s watches, you’re essentially getting entry-level luxury quality and finish, but at an affordable price. They offer great performance, finish, and quality, but due to their affordable prices, they cannot really establish a luxurious reputation, although they very well could if they tweaked a few things and increased their prices 10x or so.

Which is the best Orient watch?

With so many great Orient watches to choose from, the answer to that question is really about what you are looking for. Regardless of what model you choose, you’re getting a great watch, so just follow the criteria discussed above and you’ll be able to find the best Orient watch for you.