Orient RA-AA0810N

This has been my daily watch for over a year now. I appreciate the 'fake' patina look that Orient opted for. The dial exhibits a gradient that transitions from a light brownish hue to a darker brown and eventually to black. The lume is satisfactory, complementing the dial nicely despite not being as luminous as the non-painted version. The hands are precise, and the date window integrates seamlessly into the watch's aesthetic. The unidirectional bezel provides a satisfying click and aligns well with the 12 o'clock marker. A noteworthy detail is the polished corners extending from one lug, along the case's side, to the opposite lug, adding a touch of elegance to the sporty design.

Specifications include a 41.8mm stainless steel case, an automatic in-house movement made in Japan (cal. F6922), 200 meters of water resistance, an aluminum bezel insert, and a sapphire crystal. The movement performs admirably, with an accuracy of around +5 seconds per day during wear. However, compared to the Seiko 4R, I find it slightly inferior; the rotor can be noisy, and the winding feels 'grindier.'

Some refer to this watch as the second generation Kamasu, while others call it Mako. Personally, I lean towards it being more similar to the Kamasu due to shared features like hands, movement, and packaging. However, it lacks the distinct markers that define the Kamasu. Orient's naming scheme adds confusion, leaving me unsure of what to call it.

Now, onto the drawbacks, which are not deal-breakers for me but worth mentioning. There are two aspects I'm not fond of: the bracelet and the crown. The bracelet feels subpar for the price point, but it's easily replaceable (I'm considering a jubilee). However, the crown is the weakest part of the watch. It's too small, making it a hassle to use, even for someone with slender fingers.

In conclusion, I have a fondness for this watch, as it has been my daily companion and continues to be so. Every component harmonizes with the design seamlessly, and I don't foresee switching to another daily watch anytime soon.