ORIENT STAR
Orient Star's signature models are the Mechanical Moon Phase, Slim Skeleton, and Slim Date. To expand the lineup of these three models, the brand has diversified the exterior expressions, such as coloring and dial patterns. Each of them is not just a color variation, but is created with a clear purpose. This time, limited edition models of the Mechanical Moon Phase and Slim Date have been released.
Text by Yuto Hosoda (Chronos-Japan)
The RKAM0006L is a stark departure from the RK-AM0007S, showcasing a modern aesthetic. The OS mark is only inside the inner circle, as before, but what makes it unique is that the color tone changes between the outer and inner parts, with the inner circle as the dividing line. According to a public relations representative, this navy color model is highly popular among young people. Limited to 500 pieces. Priced at 17 yen.
(Right) Mechanical Moon Phase RK-AM0007S
The OS mark embossed across the entire dial is a symbol of Orient Star, which has been in use since 1951, and is a perfect match for this watch, which emphasizes its classic style. The strap has a glazing finish that gives it a glossy finish. Automatic movement (Cal. F7X62). 22 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve of approximately 40 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 41mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. Limited to 500 pieces. Price: 170,000 yen.
In June 2017, Orient Star released the Mechanical Moon Phase. In June 2018, they introduced the Slim Skeleton and Slim Date models, and in just under a year they have been actively developing new models that have the potential to become the core collection of the new Orient Star.
If 17 and 18 were the period for creating a collection that would symbolize the new Orient Star, then 19 can be imagined as a period for these new products to mature into "standard models." However, the brand has already taken the next step towards becoming a standard in 18.
Two new mechanical moon phase models with distinct personalities have been released: the RK-AM0007S, featuring an ivory dial, and the RK-AM0006L, featuring a navy blue dial. The former features a charcoal gray strap, successfully emphasizing a classic design that complements the dial color. This model also features the traditional OS mark, previously only embossed within the inner circle of the dial, across the entire dial. As a mark beloved by the brand for over 60 years, this also contributes to a nostalgic feel. The latter, on the other hand, offers a more modern impression, featuring brighter, more saturated colors than the existing navy dial model. To prevent the hands from being lost in the dial, all hands are coated in pink gold PVD. The hour and minute hands are shaped like peaks, with a groove on one side for a three-dimensional effect. The power reserve indicator and date display are also dark gray for improved legibility.
Three new models have been released in the Slim Skeleton series, which makes the case appear thinner by inserting the movement from the dial side and tapering the back cover and case sides. The deep red model in particular excels in its gradation change, with the tone becoming higher as you move towards the center of the dial. Gradient dials are best suited to expressing richer tones, so a larger dial surface area is preferable. This model, which maximizes the dial surface area by narrowing the bezel, is a perfect match for the gradation color expression, which makes sense.
Orient Star offers a wide range of options to buyers by offering a wide variety of exterior finishes. Their watchmaking has benefited many watch enthusiasts, both beginners and collectors.
The Slim Skeleton features a slim bezel and a spacious dial design, and this model features a beautiful gradient. The movement is a new version of the renowned 46 series movement, with an extended power reserve of approximately 10 hours. Automatic (Cal. F7F62). 24 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve of approximately 50 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 41mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. Priced at 155,000 yen.
The Slim Skeleton also comes in a Prestige Shop exclusive model. In addition to the bracelet, it comes with a genuine crocodile leather strap. This model is the only one in which all the indexes are finished in pink gold PVD. It is priced at 155,000 yen. As can be seen in the RK-HJ0001S below, the Slim Skeleton and Slim Date use a casing called the FLA (Front Loaded Assembly) method, which makes the case itself appear thinner. As a result, when actually worn, the tapered sides give the watch a sleek look and make it feel even slimmer. Orient Star also uses Zaratsu polishing to create a luxurious feel for the case.
A limited edition of 300 pieces has also been released for the Slim Date. The 12 o'clock index, OS logo, and all hands are colored in pink gold. Automatic (Cal. F7G62). 24 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve of approximately 50 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 40mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. Limited to 300 pieces. Price: 120,000 yen.
Contact info: Orient Customer Service Center ☎042-847-3380
