Brands
Orient
Orient has been a Seiko Epson subsidiary since 2017, which means its movements are designed and built by the same engineering organisation that produces Seiko's. The prices have not followed.
- Founded
- 1950
- Country
- Japan
- Typical price range
- $120 – $700
- Watches covered
- 4 watches
Orient occupies a specific and valuable position: it fits specifications Seiko reserves for higher price brackets — sapphire crystals, solid end links, tighter accuracy windows — onto watches that cost less. The Bambino created the affordable automatic dress category and the Kamasu is the reference point for value in affordable divers. What Orient does not have is Seiko's brand recognition, service network or luminous technology.
Strengths
- In-house F6922 and F6722 calibers with a tighter published rate than Seiko's 4R family
- Sapphire crystals and solid bracelets at prices where Seiko fits mineral glass
- The Bambino and Kamasu are two of the most recommended watches in their categories
- Backed by Seiko Epson's manufacturing and quality control
Watch out for
- Thin service and parts network outside Japan
- Luminous material is noticeably weaker than Seiko's LumiBrite
- Model naming and version numbering is confusing — the caliber matters more than the version
- Lower resale interest than the equivalent Seiko
Orient
Top rated
Orient
Latest reviews
- 85/ 100
- 82/ 100
- 88/ 100
Orient
Comparisons
Orient Kamasu
Seiko 5 Sports SRPD55Orient Kamasu vs Seiko 5 Sports
The Orient Kamasu out-specifies the Seiko 5 Sports in almost every measurable way — sapphire, 200 m, solid end links and a tighter accuracy window — for around $40 more. The Seiko wins on luminous performance, service network and aftermarket support.
View comparison
Orient Bambino Version 2
Seiko Presage Cocktail Time SRPB43Orient Bambino vs Seiko Presage Cocktail Time
The Seiko Presage has the better dial, the better movement and the slimmer case. The Orient Bambino costs about $230 less. Both are good; only one of them is cheap.
View comparison
Orient KamasuOrient Mako IIIOrient Kamasu vs Mako III
Identical movement, identical water resistance, identical bracelet construction. The Kamasu adds a sapphire crystal and sharper dial furniture for around $40. For most buyers that is worth paying.
View comparison
