Every time I think I'm going to get an affordable Seiko, I always end up getting the Orient. I really don't see many brands beating it at it's price range. I like the design of the Orient divers a lot more, but it's also because it has hacking and hand winding, which I consider big bonuses.
I still have mine from five years ago. It's been through 12 hour posts in 120° degree heat in the middle east for two years. Pearl diving in the Persian Gulf. Dinners with my now wife. Everything and it keeps beating. Absolutely love mine
So I mentioned the idea throughout the video that the Orient Mako III was announced. It later turned out that this wasn't the case after later reports. Thanks again for watching everyone!
Point of clarification: the “Orient Mako 3” is a misnomer. There had been speculation that a newly released Orient Diver was intended to be the successor to the Orient Mako 2, but Orient has made clear that this is not the case, and that the Orient Mako 2 is ongoing as the current and latest iteration of the Mako model. The newly released Orient Diver is its own thing.
I bought my Orient Mako II with the blue dial and screw-down week-day quickset at my local antique shop for a great bargain at $150. Such a awesome value for the money. However, a week ago someone else bought the Oris for an astounding $250 (I looked at it beforehand, observed the movement through the case-back window with its signature red rotor, and found it to be legit), and I was absolutely devastated. It motivated me to grab the Mako.
I love you but my parents hate you. You got me addicted to watches and I spent all my Christmas money on two watches. Thanks for all your good videos🙏🙏
Kenneth/Debbie Davis wow. What watch did you get. My dad and I went 50/50 for a hublot (I spent $300)watch for nice occasions, and I spent the rest of my money on a Marathon for an everyday use($200)I really love this channel because it got me into watches.
I got a really good deal on a $1,500 hublot because my neighbor is the manager of a watch shop and got me a good discount. And since it was Christmas time I got a really good discount
I hope you take care of it. Not bang it up.. An scratch it all up.. That 1500 dollar watch will out live you.. Take care of it.. An treasure it.... Watches are special... Enginerring....
Love the Mako, but prefer the ray as an actual diving instrument as backup to a dive comp. Lumed seconds hand and also greater surface area of lume application just wins. And yes, this watch is certainly a capable actual timepiece for being underwater despite not being ISO certified.
I finally pulled the trigger on the black dial version for $105 new. Great value indeed. This will make for a great automatic daily wear and will share wrist time with my all time great value watch, the Citizen Promaster BN0150-28E . My SKX007J will need to be sent for repair since I accidentally touched the spring while doing my own regulation.
mine was +13 out of the box. Then it started to slow down until +4-5 after 2 weeks and has been steadily at +4 ever since (i leave 3 up when i sleep). Best $150 ive ever spent on a watch.
GUNSnSTUFF but, when the orient breaks after it's no longer in production, it will be trash as parts and servicing will no longer be available. Luxury watches can be serviced indefinitely.
Ferien7 you DO realize it is a $130 watch not $13,000 right? If it breaks, yet.....throw it away and buy another one.....how much you pay for even just a simple service for any luxury brand? Plus even a narcissist favorite.....Rolex break and will cost you an arm and leg to service or repair.....get it real! Don’t be a snob!
I have between a 6 and 1/4 and 6 and 1/2 inch wrist and this is a perfect sweet spot, does not look too big at all. I love blue watches and this is an absolutely gorgeous watch at a fantastic price. I also own a ray in black and it is just as gorgeous. Years ago I own a few watches that cost thousands of dollars. Unless I win the lottery, there is absolutely no need for me to ever spend that much money on a watch ever again. There are many Fantastic watches, especially from Orient, under $200. I have never been disappointed with the for Orient watches I presently own.
After nearly 2 years of this video, my wife brought me an Orient Ray 2 for our 3rd wedding anniversary, I more prefer the aesthetic of Ray 2 over Mako 2, is still a personal choice for Ray and Mako, so be proud of your collection, cheer to all Ray 2 owners.
This was my first diver and my first automatic. So its safe to say I wont ever sell it (I'd get around 60 or 70 bucks at most considering they are about 130 brand new. This has almost a "dressy diver" vibe going on and the Pepsi dial I chose adds some nice color. Thanks Teddy!
I was literally looking at a Mako 2 on Amazon when I got the notification for this video lol. I love my SKX009 but I want a diver with a black face as well to add to my rotation. Great video and great information as always! Thanks Teddy!
Hey Teddy… Pretty sure I’ve seen this one before but I just watched it again… Great piece thanks! I’ve owned the Ray II now for a year. I chose it over the Mako II As I believe it appears slightly more ‘dressy’, Which was a hole in my collection of ‘too many’ divers. I’ve recently started wearing it quite a lot(again)...Took off the factory bracelet and put it on a nice ‘vintage look’ Horween leather strap...I change the watch entirely for me and it is, once again, one of my favorite watches. I just checked it again and it is still right around +4/5/ seconds a day! I haven’t put on an SKX(any of my 3) in a couple of months as the Ray is the go-to ‘affordable’ diver for me right now. I highly recommend this watch for all the reasons that you stated. It’s just a great watch.
I have the ray 2, and it's my everyday beater watch. It gets lots of compliments, has an immersive dial, and provides a nice ruggedness. I sometimes wake up in the middle of the night and my ray is still glowing away. Truly an unbeatable value and cool factor
The Mako II is stunning but the Mako USA looks even better! That’s why I’m so excited with the Mako III, because it’s very similar to the USA and in a few months it will be under 200$
I've had a mako for 7 years now, has the unfortunate 2 o'clock date pusher, and it's been a good reliable watch that's taken a fair bit of abuse and still performs within spec. I love the case design, it sits flat on my wrist, wears smaller than its size would suggest and everything about it just works. The only fault I have with it is the mineral glass. Great watch!
I really like this watch, I don't have an Orient in my collection (as of yet). I think this is the one that will sway me! Great video as always. By the way, you're not the only one that puts straps on his divers! Almost every diver I own has a canvas, silicone, or leather strap on it.
When you wear a hat, you look like someone in witness protection, wearing a disguise 😂. Excellent video, I got this for my Dad about a year ago, and so far it’s been great for him.
My pick is the Ray II (because I think the 6/9/12 numerals on the dial and 10/20/30 on the bezel don't work well together on the Mako), but I have to join you on the fact that it's the best diver for under $200. And probably the best affordable alternative to a Rolex Submariner overall. Crazy amount of value for money, you just can't go wrong with this one. I might give my black Ray II away at some point too, but I still really like it... Cheers! Alessandro
Can’t beat it for the price. Size, fit, design, etc. - all great! Thanks for a good review again! Glad I went out and grabbed one before this video because this is going to make people go out and snag one.
Definitely dig this and love the review here. Gotta say, I like your Seiko Samurai just a tad more. Very robust and modern looking. Great thing about watch collecting is that you can always just get yourself a little bit of everything.
Skyler Sponberg I love and only buy and collect JDM Seikos too, but recently I think Seiko prices is a bit nut and overrated and definitely overly priced.....Seiko, even Grand Seiko is like the Honda NSX or Nissan GTR.....great car on specs and well made but.............if you really have the money and for the similar price.....you will look past Ferrari, BMW Ms, Mercedes AMGs or even Lambos?
My blue Mako II was my first automatic, first diver and first Orient. An outstanding watch and the favorite in my somewhat small but growing collection! It just might have the best blue dial out there.
This watch is one of the best values out there considering the fact that it’s a watch with handwind for 120-140. My only complain the bracelet that feels a bit cheap isnt it, and that it doesnt have a saphire crystal. But again, its 140 so i cannot really complain about it. Very good value for a watch.
LOL I was just showing my partner the Mako 2 and the Ray 2 and trying to decide on one. And you make this video... it’s like when my iPhone “listens” 🤔🧐🙂 thanks Teddy. Happy New Year and thanks for all your videos. 👍🏼
I love mine. Wear it almost everyday. Passing over my SKX009-007&013. I also have the Pepsi edition. I also really like the mix of the numbers and the indices. Never thought about switching out the bracelet for a leather strap. But it did look great in your video. Keep up the great reviews!
I agree. I have 4 Mako IIs, and 2 Ray 2s. I've upgraded to sapphire crystals and ceramic bezel inserts. Currently enjoying different bands. Great value for the money!
I just bought an Orient Mako II with a Pepsi dial and I could not be happier! On Amazon you can find it for ~$135 and it definitely beats the Seiko 5 Sport and even Orient Kamasu when it comes to value. Granted the Kamasu is Saphire, but one could make the argument that is not ideal for a dive watch anyway.
I've spent hours comparing the SKX to the Ray and other than the X factor and it's history, the SKX can't compare to the specs and beauty of the Ray (and Mako).
Just ordered one. I've had all sorts of watches... a blue dial Tudor sub (before they were discontinued -should've kept that), many Seiko skx divers, Tag, etc. and countless old watches. When I got into watches it was the mid 90's and back then you could pick stuff up at flea markets and whatnot for cheap. Now everything is going up and it's becoming a rich man's hobby. It is rare I find a watch I can afford that I actually am psyched about. This is one. It may be a budget watch but I'm really looking forward to this one. Especially in the blue dial.
I have the Mako2, the SKX and the Citizen Promaster Diver (BN0191-55L). I'd make the argument that the Citizen with the ECO Drive is the best of the three. It's also ISO certified, and while it is a quartz watch, it will never need a battery, and is the most accurate of the three watches.
Hi Teddy, I have always loved the style, charm and value of Orient watches in general. I also like it when you take a specific model and give us an in depth review of its specs and pros/cons.
I continue to prefer the Citizen Promaster, the Eco-drive powered and the mechanical powered too. I don't know why the majority of youtubers don't even consider it, specially the Eco-drive. Sorry for my english!😅
I totally agree. The Eco-Drive Promasters are absolutely amazing for the money. Amazing build quality! I guess the USA don't really get Citizen watches. Here in the UK and Asia, Citizens sell in huge numbers.
I'm not a huge diver fan, so when I started looking for one everyone pointed to the Seikos. The Seikos just looked too diver to me, but loved the look of the Mako II. Glad I picked it up.
I wonder what a really nice watch bracelet would be like. I just got one of these for Christmas and the bracelet seems real nice to me. Much nicer than any other watch I've owned. If it's the low point of this watch, I can't imagine what a really nice bracelet must be like.
I have give or take 300$ Canadian to spend on a new watch right now. I've just recently gained some knowledge in the world of collectible/respectable watches thanks to your channel and others like it that are also good. I know I want a dive watch as my next watch. I've owned nice watches in the past but when I bought them I did not know much. But I did surprisingly well even without the knowledge at least in the resale market. 2012 I bought a TW steel grand tech chronograph. 2014 I got a Bulova precisionist in black carbon dial with gold accents. And in 2015 I bought a Oakley minute machine with the copper dial (which was my best investment yet by far) not sure what to do for my first diver. I've heard so much about orient. Also thought about the casio duro but I'd have to change the strap.
The Mako II USA is THE best affordable mechanical diver. Adds lumed second hand, drilled lugs, and Sapphire crystal. I'll add that the bracelet is extremely comfortable. The only thing this needs to be perfect is a ceramic bezel but those are becoming available now too on the mod market.
I have a Seiko SKX007 which I really love. However I just wish you could hand wind it. Not so bothered about hacking or the crystal and although a great many dislike the bracelet, myself and great many others love it as it super comfy. This Orient really is great value and I was going to buy the 009 for the blue dial, perhaps this may be a better alternative. Yes Teddy please carry on doing these reviews as even if we have seen other people review the same watch, it's always god to see it from another well respected guy like your good self. Keep up the good work.
Summer 2020 with the average SKX now over $300 you can get two Mako ii or two Ray ii or one of each for less than $300. Best bang for the buck. I went with a Pepsi Mako ii and a black Ray ii for less than $250.
I appreciated your video as I have decided to purchase a Orient Kano which I believe is similar to the mako ll. You demonstrated the fine qualities of the watch. I have also decided to go with a JDM model made in Japan. Thanks. Rick
Would have liked to see it on the time grapher but I do agree probably one of the best value dive watches. I have had a Pagani design 1639 which included a sapphire crystal, ceramic bezel, and a nh35a movement which gained just 5 seconds a day that along with solid links and screw pins. The only thing is when you look at the watch and see Pagani design it did let it down. I say had, because I have since dropped it and now it's stopped, but whatever anyone might say about it been Chinese etc. The fact is it came with alot of specs for the price that watches at twice the price couldn't match, and for the time I had it, it kept great time.
Got one of these for christmas, it is AMAZING, it feels stunning for its price point, if it looking for a budget automatic diver dont look anywhere else
This is one of the few divers with Arabics. Why don't more divers have Arabics? An argument could be made that the Invicta ProDiver or some of the AliExpress homage watches are better value, and I'd say that might be true on paper. In the real world, the Mako II is a hot deal and should last a very long time, something the clones might not do. I'm a huge fan of day/date, and as noted above, this thing has Arabics. Yeah, I'm sold.
Although I prefer the RAY face to that of the MAKO, these are hard to beat. And I agree with Derek, that they have certain charm lacking in Seiko counterparts.
Just got the Mako 2, first real watch in year(cell phone - sorry) . A bit more weight then expected but I have never had a dive watch before. Went with the Mako over Ray because the Ray resembled the Rolex to much. Just me? Keeping good time, looks good and at $130 USD a good price. Thanks for your review it help me to decide.
It’s so wild to me how 99% of watch reviewing is basically extreme closeups of every little detail of the watch and 1% of it actually on a person’s wrist to see what it looks like, which is literally the most important part.
i have bought this watch and it's amazeing i highly reccomend checking it out the movement for its price is greati am super happy i did this decision and purchasing this watch also the price of the watch is arround 200 to 250 max.
Hey Teddy really enjoyed this video! On the fence between the black and blue dial, I have never seen these watches in person, so my natural question would be just how nice that blue dial really is in person? Not sure if i should just play it safe and get the black dial version. Thanks!
Haha. Great video and very timely. Just purchased mine 2 days ago and expect it to arrive tomorrow. Couldn’t agree with you more and the watch will serve as my diver beater song with my SkX007. Also ordered a honey leather strap to go with it.
Just amazing value for money.My very first automatic watch was the Mako I.Wear it all the time still and I'll always wear it,great watch.Mako and Ray II even a better option now obviously.
I got the Black Ray II. Best choice I made this Christmas. My first diver and 0 complaints so far.
Mateo wait until it breaks
Ferien7 Eh even if it does, it's below $200. Not much would be lost.
so far do you still wear your orient?
Looks just like a Rolex submariner . I love mine .
Ferien7 what’s your point? Everything break eventually........even the narcissist favorite.......Rolex breaks!
Teddy dressed ready to rob a Tiffany's
Hahahaha that’s where I was headed actually 😂 jk jk
Actually he's saving on heat to buy extra watches... I know this, as I do that myself...
Lmao im dying!!!!😂😂
lmfao
Every time I think I'm going to get an affordable Seiko, I always end up getting the Orient. I really don't see many brands beating it at it's price range. I like the design of the Orient divers a lot more, but it's also because it has hacking and hand winding, which I consider big bonuses.
Dont get the Orient kanno...the Crown tends to fall off half the time..really hard to find orient parts in grey market.
@@RM-pg4js Wow! That is great advice. What about the Ray II?
Even though seiko is the parent company to Orient, l find the Orient line has a charm that all seiko watches lack. Great video.
I personally like the look of orient divers and entry level watches more as well. Seiko certainly has their own charm but I hear you for sure
They just have the same ownership, Seiko doesn't own Orient
Seiko is actually a sister company. They do not own orient. They are both owned by the same business interest.
Joe Lopata ... namely, Epson ... 🤓
@@mediaconsumption3972. SEIKO holding company more commonly referred to a seiko owns Orient, are you happy now.
I still have mine from five years ago. It's been through 12 hour posts in 120° degree heat in the middle east for two years. Pearl diving in the Persian Gulf. Dinners with my now wife. Everything and it keeps beating. Absolutely love mine
So I mentioned the idea throughout the video that the Orient Mako III was announced. It later turned out that this wasn't the case after later reports. Thanks again for watching everyone!
Point of clarification: the “Orient Mako 3” is a misnomer. There had been speculation that a newly released Orient Diver was intended to be the successor to the Orient Mako 2, but Orient has made clear that this is not the case, and that the Orient Mako 2 is ongoing as the current and latest iteration of the Mako model. The newly released Orient Diver is its own thing.
@@BurntPlaydoh Mako USA costs a full $100 more than a Kamasu that is 50% more not "about" the same price..
I bought my Orient Mako II with the blue dial and screw-down week-day quickset at my local antique shop for a great bargain at $150. Such a awesome value for the money. However, a week ago someone else bought the Oris for an astounding $250 (I looked at it beforehand, observed the movement through the case-back window with its signature red rotor, and found it to be legit), and I was absolutely devastated. It motivated me to grab the Mako.
I just got the Ray II for Christmas. It’s now one of my favorites in my collection. Love the orient line.
I’m with you on the leather strap on a diver...I do it all the time!!
Haha I knew I couldn’t be alone
Agreed. I think it looks fantastic on that leather strap!
@@TeddyBaldassarre where did you buy that leather strap it looks awesome
I will put it on a nice thick silicon or rubber band instead!
@@Jikaninja
Silicone is super comfy
I love you but my parents hate you. You got me addicted to watches and I spent all my Christmas money on two watches. Thanks for all your good videos🙏🙏
Dabbing Banana! I spent all of my xmas money too, but only got 1 watch! 😱
Kenneth/Debbie Davis wow. What watch did you get. My dad and I went 50/50 for a hublot (I spent $300)watch for nice occasions, and I spent the rest of my money on a Marathon for an everyday use($200)I really love this channel because it got me into watches.
I got a really good deal on a $1,500 hublot because my neighbor is the manager of a watch shop and got me a good discount. And since it was Christmas time I got a really good discount
The watch was pretty much 95% off
I hope you take care of it. Not bang it up.. An scratch it all up.. That 1500 dollar watch will out live you.. Take care of it.. An treasure it.... Watches are special... Enginerring....
Video idea: watches that have depreciated drastically but retain their horological value
Basically Swatches. They're depreciated like crazy but the history is still there
@@nakazatotakeshi4286 Not just Swatches. Look at vintage GP, Seiko Sportsmatic 5, Elgin, Gruen, and Vintage Bulova.
That’s will pretty much mean all of them in a long run......of course except the cult brand and narcissists favorite.........Rolex.
Love the Mako, but prefer the ray as an actual diving instrument as backup to a dive comp. Lumed seconds hand and also greater surface area of lume application just wins.
And yes, this watch is certainly a capable actual timepiece for being underwater despite not being ISO certified.
I finally pulled the trigger on the black dial version for $105 new. Great value indeed. This will make for a great automatic daily wear and will share wrist time with my all time great value watch, the Citizen Promaster BN0150-28E . My SKX007J will need to be sent for repair since I accidentally touched the spring while doing my own regulation.
105? Where?
mine was +13 out of the box. Then it started to slow down until +4-5 after 2 weeks and has been steadily at +4 ever since (i leave 3 up when i sleep). Best $150 ive ever spent on a watch.
This is one of my favorite watches I own and I own watches that cost 5X as much. Looking at the ray raven as well.
GUNSnSTUFF but, when the orient breaks after it's no longer in production, it will be trash as parts and servicing will no longer be available. Luxury watches can be serviced indefinitely.
Ferien7 you DO realize it is a $130 watch not $13,000 right? If it breaks, yet.....throw it away and buy another one.....how much you pay for even just a simple service for any luxury brand? Plus even a narcissist favorite.....Rolex break and will cost you an arm and leg to service or repair.....get it real! Don’t be a snob!
I have between a 6 and 1/4 and 6 and 1/2 inch wrist and this is a perfect sweet spot, does not look too big at all. I love blue watches and this is an absolutely gorgeous watch at a fantastic price. I also own a ray in black and it is just as gorgeous. Years ago I own a few watches that cost thousands of dollars. Unless I win the lottery, there is absolutely no need for me to ever spend that much money on a watch ever again. There are many Fantastic watches, especially from Orient, under $200. I have never been disappointed with the for Orient watches I presently own.
After nearly 2 years of this video,
my wife brought me an Orient Ray 2 for our 3rd wedding anniversary,
I more prefer the aesthetic of Ray 2 over Mako 2,
is still a personal choice for Ray and Mako,
so be proud of your collection,
cheer to all Ray 2 owners.
This was my first diver and my first automatic. So its safe to say I wont ever sell it (I'd get around 60 or 70 bucks at most considering they are about 130 brand new. This has almost a "dressy diver" vibe going on and the Pepsi dial I chose adds some nice color. Thanks Teddy!
I was literally looking at a Mako 2 on Amazon when I got the notification for this video lol. I love my SKX009 but I want a diver with a black face as well to add to my rotation. Great video and great information as always! Thanks Teddy!
Hey Teddy… Pretty sure I’ve seen this one before but I just watched it again… Great piece thanks!
I’ve owned the Ray II now for a year. I chose it over the Mako II As I believe it appears slightly more ‘dressy’, Which was a hole in my collection of ‘too many’ divers. I’ve recently started wearing it quite a lot(again)...Took off the factory bracelet and put it on a nice ‘vintage look’ Horween leather strap...I change the watch entirely for me and it is, once again, one of my favorite watches. I just checked it again and it is still right around +4/5/ seconds a day! I haven’t put on an SKX(any of my 3) in a couple of months as the Ray is the go-to ‘affordable’ diver for me right now. I highly recommend this watch for all the reasons that you stated. It’s just a great watch.
I love my Ray2. It's been an awesome beater with a strap code band
Agreed. I wish I could have the hands from the mako and the indices of the ray in one watch
@@TeddyBaldassarre totally agree. It was a tough decision. But, for the price you can't go wrong either way. These orients are really hidden treasures
I've got a black Ray II on the way. I love the blue, but on both of these watches, I think the black really looks great.
I like Orient Ray II a lot more than this one,but they both are amazing. And of course you have to go for the blue dial,it's just stunning.
This is the most beautifull and best build diver for the price with in house movement. I cant wait to get it to make company on my Red Kamasu :)
I have the ray 2, and it's my everyday beater watch. It gets lots of compliments, has an immersive dial, and provides a nice ruggedness. I sometimes wake up in the middle of the night and my ray is still glowing away. Truly an unbeatable value and cool factor
trent atkinson how is it holding up
I recently acquired the "pepsi" version. I love how it almost has a metallic hue to the bezel colors.
Was considering that one as well for the review
The Mako II is stunning but the Mako USA looks even better! That’s why I’m so excited with the Mako III, because it’s very similar to the USA and in a few months it will be under 200$
I got the Mako II USA for Christmas and love it? Higher priced, but has some great upgrades.
I've had a mako for 7 years now, has the unfortunate 2 o'clock date pusher, and it's been a good reliable watch that's taken a fair bit of abuse and still performs within spec. I love the case design, it sits flat on my wrist, wears smaller than its size would suggest and everything about it just works. The only fault I have with it is the mineral glass. Great watch!
I really like this watch, I don't have an Orient in my collection (as of yet). I think this is the one that will sway me! Great video as always. By the way, you're not the only one that puts straps on his divers! Almost every diver I own has a canvas, silicone, or leather strap on it.
That band/watch combo is spot on.
Yes it is! It felt it had some character to it as well. I kinda miss mine, even though I've upgraded to much "better" watches since I sold it.
Dude the combo is killer
When you wear a hat, you look like someone in witness protection, wearing a disguise 😂. Excellent video, I got this for my Dad about a year ago, and so far it’s been great for him.
Hahahaha i wear my Dad hats around a lot honestly. Btw awesome gift! Thanks for watching!
My pick is the Ray II (because I think the 6/9/12 numerals on the dial and 10/20/30 on the bezel don't work well together on the Mako), but I have to join you on the fact that it's the best diver for under $200. And probably the best affordable alternative to a Rolex Submariner overall. Crazy amount of value for money, you just can't go wrong with this one. I might give my black Ray II away at some point too, but I still really like it... Cheers! Alessandro
It’s my next budget diver...simple / clean etc. affordable. Great
Quality. Inexpensive.
Can’t beat it for the price. Size, fit, design, etc. - all great! Thanks for a good review again! Glad I went out and grabbed one before this video because this is going to make people go out and snag one.
I don’t see me bringing up the prices too much haha. Thanks David!
Teddy Baldassarre The Baldassarre Effect!
Teddy, can you make a video for us the best watches to have in our wardrobe to wear?
Definitely dig this and love the review here. Gotta say, I like your Seiko Samurai just a tad more. Very robust and modern looking. Great thing about watch collecting is that you can always just get yourself a little bit of everything.
Skyler Sponberg I love and only buy and collect JDM Seikos too, but recently I think Seiko prices is a bit nut and overrated and definitely overly priced.....Seiko, even Grand Seiko is like the Honda NSX or Nissan GTR.....great car on specs and well made but.............if you really have the money and for the similar price.....you will look past Ferrari, BMW Ms, Mercedes AMGs or even Lambos?
Last week I decided to buy this watch, but I wasn‘t sure because of the specs. Thanks to you now I know that this will be my next one. Thanks a lot👌
Good review! I just recently got the Mako 2, and I actually love it. I did pay a little extra to have sapphire Crystal put on.
My blue Mako II was my first automatic, first diver and first Orient. An outstanding watch and the favorite in my somewhat small but growing collection! It just might have the best blue dial out there.
Another great video. My ray ii should be arriving in the mail Tuesday! Watching this video made me even more impatient for it to get here!
This watch is one of the best values out there considering the fact that it’s a watch with handwind for 120-140. My only complain the bracelet that feels a bit cheap isnt it, and that it doesnt have a saphire crystal. But again, its 140 so i cannot really complain about it. Very good value for a watch.
LOL I was just showing my partner the Mako 2 and the Ray 2 and trying to decide on one. And you make this video... it’s like when my iPhone “listens” 🤔🧐🙂 thanks Teddy. Happy New Year and thanks for all your videos. 👍🏼
I love mine. Wear it almost everyday. Passing over my SKX009-007&013. I also have the Pepsi edition. I also really like the mix of the numbers and the indices.
Never thought about switching out the bracelet for a leather strap. But it did look great in your video.
Keep up the great reviews!
I agree. I have 4 Mako IIs, and 2 Ray 2s. I've upgraded to sapphire crystals and ceramic bezel inserts. Currently enjoying different bands. Great value for the money!
Happy new year teddy. Spot on observation. I have always liked the mako/ray II more than the skx, despite the latter’s iconic status.
Another great vid, Bulbasaur
I just bought an Orient Mako II with a Pepsi dial and I could not be happier! On Amazon you can find it for ~$135 and it definitely beats the Seiko 5 Sport and even Orient Kamasu when it comes to value. Granted the Kamasu is Saphire, but one could make the argument that is not ideal for a dive watch anyway.
the shoots under the rain are great
Wow.... I was just about to go for this exact model or for the same exact Seiko. Guess I got a winner now.
Orient wins. Flawless victory.
I've spent hours comparing the SKX to the Ray and other than the X factor and it's history, the SKX can't compare to the specs and beauty of the Ray (and Mako).
I just got the Ray II, I like the slightly vintage look to it better than the Mako
Both are great. I think it is a matter of preference
Just got one as well. I'm thinking of bleaching the bezel insert a bit, like Bark & Jack did to his Seiko
I agree, I have the Ray II also and love it.
Me too. Chose the Ray II due to the better lume.
I chose the Ray II over the Mako, it’s just got a much nicer look to the dial.
Just ordered one. I've had all sorts of watches... a blue dial Tudor sub (before they were discontinued -should've kept that), many Seiko skx divers, Tag, etc. and countless old watches. When I got into watches it was the mid 90's and back then you could pick stuff up at flea markets and whatnot for cheap. Now everything is going up and it's becoming a rich man's hobby. It is rare I find a watch I can afford that I actually am psyched about. This is one. It may be a budget watch but I'm really looking forward to this one.
Especially in the blue dial.
I have the Mako2, the SKX and the Citizen Promaster Diver (BN0191-55L). I'd make the argument that the Citizen with the ECO Drive is the best of the three. It's also ISO certified, and while it is a quartz watch, it will never need a battery, and is the most accurate of the three watches.
I’ve been contemplating getting one of these for a while but with a black dial, thanks for video 👌
I just purchased this watch...FANTASTIC watch, especially for $127 / shipping and tax included.
Hi Teddy, I have always loved the style, charm and value of Orient watches in general.
I also like it when you take a specific model and give us an in depth review of its specs and pros/cons.
I continue to prefer the Citizen Promaster, the Eco-drive powered and the mechanical powered too.
I don't know why the majority of youtubers don't even consider it, specially the Eco-drive.
Sorry for my english!😅
I totally agree. The Eco-Drive Promasters are absolutely amazing for the money. Amazing build quality! I guess the USA don't really get Citizen watches. Here in the UK and Asia, Citizens sell in huge numbers.
You are wright is a a lot of bang for the money! Keep the good work in the new year!
Got the black face version of this a couple months ago, it's my first automatic watch and I love it
Just ordered one now for 150$, hopefully I’ll be same excited as you are! ))
I'm not a huge diver fan, so when I started looking for one everyone pointed to the Seikos. The Seikos just looked too diver to me, but loved the look of the Mako II. Glad I picked it up.
I AM EARLY WOW. First achievement of 2019.
Hahaha 2019 starting out on top!
I wonder what a really nice watch bracelet would be like. I just got one of these for Christmas and the bracelet seems real nice to me. Much nicer than any other watch I've owned. If it's the low point of this watch, I can't imagine what a really nice bracelet must be like.
I got this watch as my retirement watch. Love it.
I have give or take 300$ Canadian to spend on a new watch right now. I've just recently gained some knowledge in the world of collectible/respectable watches thanks to your channel and others like it that are also good. I know I want a dive watch as my next watch. I've owned nice watches in the past but when I bought them I did not know much. But I did surprisingly well even without the knowledge at least in the resale market. 2012 I bought a TW steel grand tech chronograph. 2014 I got a Bulova precisionist in black carbon dial with gold accents. And in 2015 I bought a Oakley minute machine with the copper dial (which was my best investment yet by far) not sure what to do for my first diver. I've heard so much about orient. Also thought about the casio duro but I'd have to change the strap.
I received the Orient Mako 2 Pepsi for my retirement. Great look.
Stepping up your watch review game, nice!
A lot of bang per buck and a good starter for people who are new in the watchcommunity. Good video Teddy!
I love your new content! Looks really professional and proper but i miss the more casual baseball cap reviews as well! ;)
The Mako II USA is THE best affordable mechanical diver. Adds lumed second hand, drilled lugs, and Sapphire crystal. I'll add that the bracelet is extremely comfortable. The only thing this needs to be perfect is a ceramic bezel but those are becoming available now too on the mod market.
The Mako II is an incredible buy. That said, I don’t understand having no lume on the seconds hand. How much did this save Orient?
Literally just got the Ray II today!! Looks great and got it on a bargain deal! (Around $129 including shipping!)
I have a Seiko SKX007 which I really love. However I just wish you could hand wind it. Not so bothered about hacking or the crystal and although a great many dislike the bracelet, myself and great many others love it as it super comfy. This Orient really is great value and I was going to buy the 009 for the blue dial, perhaps this may be a better alternative.
Yes Teddy please carry on doing these reviews as even if we have seen other people review the same watch, it's always god to see it from another well respected guy like your good self. Keep up the good work.
Summer 2020 with the average SKX now over $300 you can get two Mako ii or two Ray ii or one of each for less than $300. Best bang for the buck. I went with a Pepsi Mako ii and a black Ray ii for less than $250.
Just ordered mine, can’t wait to get it 😀
Thanks Teddy. This is my first diver!
Literally posted this the day after my Mako II arrived lol
Hahaha good timing I guess 😂
Ive been around howard beach queens.. For a while.. My wife sold her co-op from there.. Off of cross bay blvd... Nice area.. We should have kept it...
I appreciated your video as I have decided to purchase a Orient Kano which I believe is similar to the mako ll. You demonstrated the fine qualities of the watch. I have also decided to go with a JDM model made in Japan. Thanks. Rick
Totally agree, Teddy! I have the Mako II with the Pepsi dial and love it. I like the looks with a leather strap. May go that route soon.
I just cannot unsee misalignment of "12" on Mako, that's why I picked Ray II. Ray has significantly better lume as well.
Would have liked to see it on the time grapher but I do agree probably one of the best value dive watches. I have had a Pagani design 1639 which included a sapphire crystal, ceramic bezel, and a nh35a movement which gained just 5 seconds a day that along with solid links and screw pins. The only thing is when you look at the watch and see Pagani design it did let it down. I say had, because I have since dropped it and now it's stopped, but whatever anyone might say about it been Chinese etc. The fact is it came with alot of specs for the price that watches at twice the price couldn't match, and for the time I had it, it kept great time.
Just started looking at these... funny you made a video now!
Got one of these for christmas, it is AMAZING, it feels stunning for its price point, if it looking for a budget automatic diver dont look anywhere else
This is one of the few divers with Arabics. Why don't more divers have Arabics? An argument could be made that the Invicta ProDiver or some of the AliExpress homage watches are better value, and I'd say that might be true on paper. In the real world, the Mako II is a hot deal and should last a very long time, something the clones might not do. I'm a huge fan of day/date, and as noted above, this thing has Arabics. Yeah, I'm sold.
Although I prefer the RAY face to that of the MAKO, these are hard to beat. And I agree with Derek, that they have certain charm lacking in Seiko counterparts.
It looks WAAAAAAY better on that leather strap. It changed my view on how good looking that watch really is.
Just got the Mako 2, first real watch in year(cell phone - sorry) . A bit more weight then expected but I have never had a dive watch before. Went with the Mako over Ray because the Ray resembled the Rolex to much. Just me? Keeping good time, looks good and at $130 USD a good price. Thanks for your review it help me to decide.
Wyatt from SunButter here... this is wild. Good luck with everything!
The SS bracelet on this is the nicest I've ever seen.
i have this watch with the pepsi bezel and i love it! frankly a lot better at keeping time than my skx
Yeah... the Seiko SKX should be using at least a 4r35 movement if you ask me
It’s so wild to me how 99% of watch reviewing is basically extreme closeups of every little detail of the watch and 1% of it actually on a person’s wrist to see what it looks like, which is literally the most important part.
i have bought this watch and it's amazeing i highly reccomend checking it out the movement for its price is greati am super happy i did this decision and purchasing this watch also the price of the watch is arround 200 to 250 max.
Just bought one! Love it.
Hey Teddy really enjoyed this video! On the fence between the black and blue dial, I have never seen these watches in person, so my natural question would be just how nice that blue dial really is in person? Not sure if i should just play it safe and get the black dial version. Thanks!
Haha. Great video and very timely. Just purchased mine 2 days ago and expect it to arrive tomorrow. Couldn’t agree with you more and the watch will serve as my diver beater song with my SkX007. Also ordered a honey leather strap to go with it.
Just amazing value for money.My very first automatic watch was the Mako I.Wear it all the time still and I'll always wear it,great watch.Mako and Ray II even a better option now obviously.
Perfect timing for this video. This is one of the watches I've been looking at with my Christmas money.
What else are you considering mate?