Monarch

But with antique styling and novelty, the hand-wind-only capability of the Monarch makes perfect sense. The design of the Monarch is without a doubt an ode to the classic timepieces in history. The dial features antique-styled hands and Arabic numbering, both of which possess a gleam that rivals wet ink on paper. The dial is also very legible due in part to the slight dome of the crystal. The outside track marker is similar to what’s found on the Bambino Version 2, and is numbered in a 60-secound format. A power reserve gauge sits at the 12 o’clock position. Power reserve indicators on hand-winding watches are extremely useful because it can act as safeguard against over winding your watch. The Monarch comes in at a modest size of only 40mm, however from an overhead glance it appears to be even smaller. That’s because the case features a divot that clearly separates the bezel from the case itself, making the watch look smaller than it actually is. The crown on the Monarch isn’t a typical Orient crown either— while it is onion-styled, the base features a tube that really highlights the antique design. It’s actually common nowadays for the tube of a watch to protrude from the case of the watch, and not the other way around. The skinny lugs of the watch continue with the classic feel, in addition to the exhibition case back, which is embellished with a clam shell design around the window. The Monarch is powered by the Orient-made caliber 48C40 movement, which is beautifully decorated as seen through the case back. Those who have been continually hunting for an Orient hand-wind only watch need to look no further than the Monarch. It’s a watch with a design that’s withstood the test of time, and one that you would be proud to wear in a modern setting. It is available in Gold, Black Steel, and Eggshell.