A Deep Dive Into Orient Star RE-AU0004B00B
The Orient Star RE-AU0004B00B has a stainless steel case and bracelet and operates on an automatic movement; it is a “Made In Japan” model. It has a stopwatch that measures time in increments of 1/10th of a second for up to 30 minutes (and two other sub-dials at 3 o’clock), shows the date at the 6 o’clock position, is water-resistant to 100 meters (or 330 feet), and has a screw-down crown with a double seal. The casing has a 12mm thickness and a 38mm diameter. Links in the case and bracelet alternate between brushed and polished stainless steel.
Black surrounds the dial of the Orient Star RE-AU0004B00B watch, which features silver lumens at the hour markers and the hands. There are minute marks along the dial’s outer rim, closest to the top. The fact that it shows the date at 6 o’clock is another feature I enjoy that is uncommon in other watches. The dial is shielded by AR-coated sapphire crystal, which helps cut down on glare from ambient light. A blue “power reserve” indicator with a maximum 30 minute range can be seen on the watch face as well. Sub-dials for seconds and 1/10 seconds sit at 3 o’clock, and a chronograph showing 60 minutes sits at 9 o’clock, all on the dial’s underside (these can be used as additional second or minute counters). The standard setting is 12 o’clock.
I like that it has a screw down cap with double seal to keep water out to a depth of 100 meters (or 330 feet, roughly), which is a feature I really appreciate. The crown can be screwed down for safety, yet it can still be used thanks to the double seal.
To secure your bracelet, the case features a deployment clasp on the right side. The polish on the deployment clasp is quite excellent (not shiny). The fact that you can see right through it makes it convenient to check the time and date.
The watch has a sapphire crystal and a plastic back, but there is no window to see the inner workings of the watch. The screw-down crown on your Orient Star RE-AU0004B00B case comes with a plastic cover. Both sides of the band are brushed or polished stainless steel. The links and brand stamp are also brushed to complement the rest of the watch’s brushed design (though it could be a bit more pronounced).
I enjoy this watch because it is so unexpectedly distinct despite its seeming simplicity. This bracelet is very light on the wrist, despite its lack of a thin or delicate feel. While most watches’ screw down crowns are difficult to turn with one hand, this one was surprisingly flexible. I’d say this watch is strong and long-lasting without being cumbersome. With its big crown guards, the RE-AU0004B00B is reminiscent of the Orient Mako or the Orient Star De Ville (wow, that’s a lot of “Orient Stars” in one review), but it seems more modern.
The dial design and arrangement on the Orient Star RE-AU0004B00B are both excellent, and the watch itself is made from high-quality components. The lume is likewise outstanding, and I believe that Orient’s proprietary “SuperLuminova” was used to achieve this effect. For around 5-6 hours in total darkness, and 8-10 hours with some ambient light, the lume will shine brightly (but it will depend on your eyes and lighting conditions). As a feature more frequent in chronograph watches than in others, the power reserve indication is a welcome addition to this timepiece. The screw-down crown is a welcome addition, and the watch’s light weight and ergonomic design make it a joy to wear. Water resistance is achieved without the need for a crystal, making this watch both affordable and functional.
