ORIENT KING DIVER DOUBLE CORONA, AUTOMATIC

The history of Orient dates back to 1901, when Shogoro Yoshida established a wholesale watch store in Ueno, a thriving district of Tokyo, Japan. Initially focused on selling imported watches, the business eventually transitioned to in-house production, marking the emergence of a brand that would become synonymous with quality and affordability in the world of watchmaking.

In 1950, after several commercial changes, the company adopted the name Orient Watch Company and the following year launched its first automatic watch, the Orient Star. This model quickly gained recognition for its precision and innovative design, setting a standard within the brand.

Global Expansion and Consolidation

Between the 1950s and 1960s, Orient positioned itself as one of the leading manufacturers of mechanical watches in Japan. In a market driven by innovation, the brand managed to compete with giants like Seiko and Citizen by offering affordable and high-performance automatic movements. Iconic models such as the Orient Royal and the Fineness – one of the thinnest automatic watches of its time – reflected its commitment to precision and sophisticated design.

Despite the rise of quartz technology in the 1970s that transformed the watch industry, Orient chose to maintain its focus on mechanical movements, setting itself apart from many brands that shifted to this new technology. This decision allowed it to build a loyal following appreciative of craftsmanship and watchmaking tradition.

Innovation and Legacy in Watchmaking

In 2009, Orient became a subsidiary of Seiko Epson Corporation, granting it access to advanced technology and a broader global reach. Despite this integration, the brand has managed to preserve its identity, staying true to its essence of automatic and mechanical watches.

Some of its most iconic collections include the Orient Bambino, renowned for its classic and refined style, and the Orient Mako, a diving watch known for its durability and reliability. These timepieces have solidified Orient’s presence in the international market, striking a balance between elegance, precision, and affordability.

Currently, Orient is a well-regarded brand in over 70 countries, recognized by both collectors and users seeking sophisticated and durable timepieces.

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