Orient Star, a subsidiary of Epson Sales Corporation, is commemorating the 60th anniversary of its first diver’s watch with the release of the M42 Diver 1964 2nd Edition F6 Date 200m Titanium. This limited-edition model pays homage to the brand’s pioneering history, blending contemporary craftsmanship with a nod to the original “Calendar Auto Orient” design from 1964.
Design and Build
The M42 Diver 1964 2nd Edition is constructed from lightweight titanium, offering a 35% weight reduction compared to its stainless-steel counterparts. The model comes with a protective coating that not only enhances durability but also provides resistance to corrosion, making it highly suitable for professional diving and everyday use.
This commemorative edition features distinctive gold accents, adding a touch of elegance to the tool-like aesthetic characteristic of professional diving watches. The dial is finished in a deep charcoal gray with vertical brush strokes, accompanied by luminous indices and gold-trimmed hands for improved visibility in low-light conditions. The rotating bezel is finished with an aluminum insert featuring a bead-blasted gold tone, complementing the dial and adding an element of sophistication to its rugged design.
Technical Specifications
Compliant with ISO 6425 standards for professional dive watches, the M42 Diver 1964 2nd Edition boasts a water resistance of up to 200 meters, making it suitable for scuba diving. Key features include:
- Case Material: Titanium with a protective coating.
- Case Size: 49.6mm lug-to-lug, 41mm diameter (excluding bezel), and 14.3mm thickness.
- Glass: Dual-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating.
- Movement: Orient’s in-house caliber F6N47 automatic movement, offering over 50 hours of power reserve.
- Functions: Power reserve indicator, date display, and stop-seconds mechanism.
- Limited Edition: Only 365 pieces will be produced globally (200 for Japan, 165 for international markets).
The titanium case and bracelet provide not only a lightweight wearing experience but also enhanced durability, thanks to the material’s resistance to seawater, sweat, and metal allergies.
A Tribute to History
The M42 Diver 1964 2nd Edition F6 continues the legacy of Orient’s dive watch collection, drawing inspiration from the 1964 Calendar Auto Orient. This model joins the ranks of previous releases like the Diver 1964 1st Edition and earlier iterations of the M42 Diver 1964 series, making it a notable addition to the brand’s lineup.
As a celebratory model for the brand’s 60th anniversary, the watch includes special gold accents, a limited-edition engraving on the case back, and a unique serial number for each piece.
Conclusion
This release is a testament to Orient Star’s commitment to precision, durability, and craftsmanship. The M42 Diver 1964 2nd Edition F6 Date 200m Titanium is a versatile timepiece designed for both diving and daily wear. With only 365 pieces available, it’s likely to attract interest from collectors and enthusiasts alike. For more details, visit the brand’s official website.