Orient Automatic Watch RA-AK0403N10B

Product Information

This particular model is a tribute to the brand’s 1957 Railmaster timepieces and is based on the original antimagnetic watch designed for those working near electric fields. This watch has a couple of updates, however: the addition of caliber 8806 movement that is extra anti-magnetic, plus a reinforced bracelet for strength. In terms of the styling of the Orient Defender II I'd say it's a field watch inspired timepiece. It has a utilitarian, even military appearance, particularly when putting it on a Nato strap. But the best field watches retain the reliability and robustness of those first wartime timepieces, making them a great choice for anyone seeking a durable and long-lasting timekeeping accessory.

I am not an expert but to me the dial color is close to the RAL 8001 (ochre brown). Whatever color it is - it's nice. The case is made from a striking pure Grade 2 Titanium, making it both exceptionally corrosion-resistant and lightweight. It uses scratch-resistant sapphire-coated crystal glass to protect its gorgeous dial with Swiss-made Lume on the hands, hour markers, and the inner bezel. The Titanium Field Watch was built to tell time accurately, whatever the circumstances might be. The watch runs on a caliber 2824 and has a 38-hour power reserve—which should be able to keep up with you, wherever your adventures take you. This modern take on the classic Explorer was released in 2016 and features an Oystersteel finish. Oystersteel is a steel superalloy made by Rolex, and is exceptionally durable and corrosion-resistant. Meanwhile, the crystal is scratch-resistant sapphire and is hermetically sealed—totally airtight.I primarily use this watch as the one I switch to when I am entering the workshop or about to do some hands on work. I’ve also tested wearing it for downhill mountain biking and it never once felt out of its depth. The Orient Defender stands out as a remarkably affordable field watch, made from high-quality materials and equipped with many of the essential features an outdoor watch should possess. That said, let us not assume that the Orient Defender is for everyone. Maybe, you do not like its overly modern style, or you want something a little more lavish and luxurious. For those who feel this way, we have also curated a list of 5 of the best alternative field watches to the Orient Defender that you should definitely consider adding to your collection. 1. Hamilton Khaki Field Ref. H69529913 Photo from TWC Orient is a Japanese watch brand well-known for its expertise in crafting reasonably-priced, functional timepieces. While the brand is best known for designing outstanding dive watches, it also has a selection of top-notch, affordable field watches in its catalogue. In particular, the Orient Defender is one of the best field watches in the market, going head-to-head with iconic models such as Timex’s Expedition Scout and Seiko’s famous Alpinist. Priority number 1 of a field watch is warranted, reading the time is no issue. Hands and markers are broad, visually present and contrasting against the dial. The sub-dials are unobtrusive, they do not hinder the reading of time.

This field watch from Nodus ( reviewed here) blows tradition out of the water yet retains a high level of water resistance. While it’s clear that the Sector Field shares some design DNA with vintage field watches, the design is much more modern. An angular case with brushed and polished surfaces houses a regular NH38 movement inside. The dial has a lot going on, featuring several different levels that comprise the sectors that the watch is named after. While it sounds busy, the Sector maintains top-notch legibility and the care placed into the design really shows. With 150m of water resistance, the Sector Field also isn’t afraid of water. Nodus Sector Field Tudor is the sister brand to Rolex. As a result, the Heritage Ranger is created with the same attention to detail and technical skill as a Rolex—but all for a lower price point. Water-resistant up to 100 meters, this Filson field watch is the perfect companion for any high-octane missions or wilderness trips, able to withstand the most arduous of conditions without flinching.Simplicity is the name of the game with the LMM-01 Field, designed and made by lifestyle brand Merci. There’s something quintessentially French about its restrained aesthetic and it comes as no surprise to learn that Merci hails from the hub of artistic creativity that is the Marais district of Paris. When shopping for a modern field watch, there are a couple of important features to pay attention to. Most field watches don’t contain as many complications as tactical watches but there are still some things to consider:

If you are into military-inspired field watches, this Hamilton Khaki Field Ref. H69529913 is a great option. This is a 42mm field watch powered by Hamilton’s in-house calibre H-50 movement. It possesses an 80-hour power reserve, so it is more than capable of dealing with any long outdoor adventures. This Hamilton watch is housed in a case and bezel that are made of solid stainless steel, perfectly complementing its striking white dial and navy green textile strap. Highly respected watch manufacturing brand Marathon makes watches for military servicemen and has been supplying watches to the Allied Forces since 1941. That’s some serious military pedigree, and all this experience and expertise has gone into creating the GPM Field Watch.Straps– these can be made from canvas, leather, rubber, stainless steel, or nylon. What’s important is that it doesn’t irritate your wrist and that it’s hard-wearing and long-lasting. It’s hard to think of a more evocative and catchy name for a field watch than Heritage Ranger. If there’s anything that screams adventure, agility, and pedigree, it’s that combination of words. In terms of materials, you want something water-resistant as you’ll be likely wearing your field watch outside in diverse weather conditions. Beyond that, your options are: For those interested in more Orient watches (contemporary as well as historical) I highly recommend Mr. Orient's blog „Orient Place - The Place for Orient Watch Collectors and Fans".