Orient Star's first "Sakigake" (Pioneer) model boasts a straightforward and high-quality finish! A deep dive into the new "Three Hand" model.

Orient Star, which will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2026, has launched a new design project called "Sakigake" (Pioneering) under the brand statement "Joy of Discovery." The focus of this article is the "Three Hand," which will be added to the contemporary collection as the first product of this project. The design concept is "flexible and strong." It features an exterior that makes extensive use of polishing, a side line on the bracelet that tightens it up, and powerful indices on a simple dial.

Highlights of the "Three Hand" that appeared as part of Orient Star's "Sakigake" project.

　Orient Star, which will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2026, has launched a new design project called "Sakigake" (Pioneering) under the brand statement "Joy of Discovery," which updates its designs while reflecting modernity.

　The focus of this article is the "Three Hand," the first model to join the contemporary collection. Based on the concept of "supple yet strong," it achieves a harmony of softness and strength through its heavily polished exterior, the side lines of the bracelet that tighten it, and the powerful indices on the simple dial. A major feature of the dial is the omission of the brand's signature power reserve indicator and the absence of a calendar display. To mark its debut, it will be available in three regular models: silver, light blue, and gold (all priced at 132,000 yen including tax), and a limited edition of 900 copper pieces worldwide (143,000 yen including tax).

The design clearly embodies the concept of "flexible yet strong."

　Holding the three-hand watch in your hand, you can see that its "supple yet strong" concept is clearly reflected in its finish. The outlines of the case and bracelet are composed of curves, giving the light reflection a rounded quality. On the other hand, the dial features a combination of hands and indices with striking straight lines, giving it a powerful presence.

　To further explore this "supple yet strong" aspect, let's focus on the exterior. This model features a polished finish. While a high proportion of polished areas can sometimes result in a shiny, unrefined appearance, this model boasts well-defined surfaces and sharp edges, resulting in a striking and well-balanced design.

　One of the unique design features is the matte finish line that connects the lugs to the bracelet. The bracelet has a polished section in the center, with a matte line running down the sides, connected by finely textured satin-finished links. The polished section has a plump, rounded shape in the center, while the sides have a sharp, edgy silhouette, giving the whole piece a refined look.

　What I found particularly well done was the end link section. The boundary between the end link and the lug is at the corner of a groove in the lug. In other words, the boundary between the parts is also the boundary of the finish, making it less noticeable. Furthermore, this groove makes the lug appear thinner, creating a unified silhouette that connects from the case side to the strap. This is a major characteristic of the three-hand design.

　Considering that the regular model of this watch costs 132,000 yen (including tax), when we look back at the exterior design, we can say that the cost has been invested in finishes such as polish and satin, and that the design has been combined with solutions that enhance the sense of unity between the case and bracelet, resulting in a level of perfection that provides a high level of satisfaction when held in the hand.

Comfortable fit for a wide range of users

　The Three Hand has a case diameter of 38.7mm and a thickness of 11.8mm. Compared to modern standards for informal watches, this model's diameter and thickness are moderate to slightly compact. When I tried it on, it had a noticeable presence on my wrist (circumference approximately 18cm) while still fitting well. Perhaps because the lugs are curved to follow the contours of the wrist, it felt thinner than its actual size suggested. The thin bracelet also had a wide range of motion and felt comfortable. Furthermore, because the lugs are cut short, it is less likely to lift up, so it should fit even users with thinner wrists than mine.

A simple yet powerful dial design

　In the Orient Star line, with the exception of the sports collection, most designs feature Roman numerals in one or more places. In contrast, the three-hand model does not use Roman numerals. While there is a possibility that variations with Roman numerals will be added in the future, the basic design of the three-hand model can be said to be the bar indices of this model. Another significant difference from previous models is the absence of both a power reserve indicator and a date display.

　When simplifying the dial by reducing its constituent elements, the quality of each element becomes crucial. According to Orient, the cut surfaces of the indices were inspired by flower petals, and the design is sharp and edgy, particularly at the 12 o'clock position, which is thick and gives a sense of strength. The top surface has notches, which change the way light reflects. The hour and minute hands also have a sharp design that complements the shape of the indices.

　The dial features a sunray brushed finish base with a thick clear coat. The regular models come in three color variations: silver, the most conservative and versatile choice; a refreshing yet understated light blue; and a gold that balances elegance and sophistication. A limited edition copper model, with its reddish hue, also appears salmon pink. The copper model features black indices and hands for a more refined look.

　All variations feature simple, understated, and gentle color schemes. These are then given a sharp contrast with the indices and hands, resulting in a well-balanced design.

Creating new beauty and value while maintaining honest and high-quality finishes.

　This model differs significantly from previous Orient Star designs, incorporating the Sakigake concept of "updating the design while reflecting modernity." On the other hand, despite the challenging project name Sakigake (pioneer), the three-hand design is not eccentric but simple, approachable, and appealing, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions.

　The grooves on the lugs, which are rare even among other brands, and the side lines that connect them to the bracelet, tighten the overall look and enhance the sense of unity between the case and bracelet, which I felt were good details.

　Furthermore, I felt that the concept behind this model was reflected in its slightly more compact size compared to standard sizes. This was likely intended to fit both users with slender and thicker wrists. The lug design and bracelet, which enhance the fit, also contribute to improved wearability for a wide range of users. In addition, the extremely simple and highly legible dial is combined with a high-quality exterior, enhancing the satisfaction of holding the watch.

　Combining these approaches, I believe Orient Star designed the three-hand watch as a straightforward, high-quality timepiece for a wider range of users. If you're looking for a reliable watch for any occasion, check it out in stores.