Orient Mako III

Following the success of the Orient Mako II, the Orient Mako III (ref RA-AA0001B) is a fantastic diver. It is a great entry-level diving watch that retails at a price of around $250. It has a 42mm diameter and a thickness of 13mm.

This diver has its own identity, meaning it is not an homage and that it has an authentic, timeless and well-executed design. However, some might regret that the Mako III lost the numerals that were present on the dial of the Mako II. The hour markers and hands contrast well with the black dial, they are covered with some LumiBrite to ensure a high level of readability in the dark. The water resistance is 200m and the lug width of this watch is conveniently 22mm.

Ref: RA-AA0001B, RA-AA0002L, RA-AA0003R, RA-AA0004E
Diameter: 42.00 mm
Thickness: 13.00 mm
Lug width: 22.00 mm
Caliber: Orient F6922

The Orient Mako III (Kamasu) can be considered as an affordable Rolex Submariner alternative. Picture credits: eBay seller willowswatches

Despite having a larger diameter than Mako II (which was 41mm wide), the Mako III is very comfortable to wear because of its relatively short lugs. The steel bracelet is of good quality and offers some micro-adjustments. It will be a perfect companion in the sea or any casual occasion. Like its predecessor, the Mako III features a day-date display. It sports the Orient F6922 in-house movement, which supports both hacking and hand winding. The power reserve of this calibre is 40 hours.

The rotating bezel has 120 ticks and it has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. It is pretty hard to find a divers watch with a sapphire crystal, hacking and windable movement for $250, so this one is basically a steal.

The Orient Mako III is simply one of the best divers you can find in this price range. Although it is slightly larger, the Mako III also makes a great affordable alternative to the Rolex Submariner.