The Orient Ray II: A Comprehensive Guide to the Affordable Dive Watch

Introduction

The Orient Ray II is an affordable and versatile dive watch that has gained immense popularity among watch enthusiasts and divers alike. With its high-quality craftsmanship, reliable performance, and classic design, the Ray II offers an exceptional value proposition for those seeking a dependable timepiece for underwater adventures or everyday wear.

Features and Specifications

Case: The Ray II features a durable 316L stainless steel case with a satin-brushed finish. Its 41.4mm diameter and 13.4mm thickness provide a comfortable fit for most wrist sizes.

Bezel: The watch is equipped with a unidirectional rotating 120-click bezel with lumed markings. The bezel enables divers to accurately track elapsed dive time, ensuring safety and precision underwater.

Crystal: The Ray II's mineral crystal is scratch-resistant and offers excellent visibility even in low-light conditions. It is flat, providing a clear view of the dial and hands.

Dial: The matte black dial features bold Arabic numeral hour markers and large, lume-filled hands. The 12 o'clock marker is triangular for quick orientation in dark environments.

Movement: The Ray II is powered by the Orient F6922 automatic movement. This reliable and accurate movement offers 22 jewels, a 21,600 bph vibration frequency, and a power reserve of approximately 40 hours.

Water Resistance: As a dive watch, the Ray II is water-resistant up to an impressive 200 meters (660 feet). This rating makes it suitable for a wide range of water activities, including diving, snorkeling, and swimming.

Performance and Reliability

The Orient Ray II is renowned for its exceptional performance and reliability. The F6922 movement ensures accurate timekeeping, while the robust case and high water resistance provide durability in demanding conditions. The watch also features ISO 6425 certification, meeting the rigorous standards for diver's watches established by the International Organization for Standardization.

Aesthetics and Versatility

Beyond its practical functionality, the Ray II is also aesthetically pleasing. The classic dive watch design, with its bold markings and polished accents, exudes a rugged and sophisticated appeal. The watch's black dial, silver bezel, and rubber strap make it a versatile piece that can complement both casual and formal attire.

Pricing and Value

The Orient Ray II is an affordable dive watch without compromising quality or performance. Its retail price hovers around $200, making it an excellent value proposition for watch enthusiasts and divers on a budget.

Real-Life Stories

Story 1:

A seasoned diver named Emily was exploring the depths of the Great Barrier Reef when her dive computer malfunctioned. Fortunately, she had her trusty Orient Ray II on her wrist. Using the watch's reliable bezel, Emily was able to calculate her remaining air time and safely ascend to the surface.

Lesson Learned: The importance of a dependable timepiece as a backup for critical safety equipment.

Story 2:

A photographer named Jack was taking underwater pictures of marine life when his camera accidentally slipped from his hands. Panicking, he watched as it sank towards the bottom. Desperate, he recalled that his Orient Ray II was water-resistant to 200 meters. He hurriedly attached a weight to the end of his camera strap and plunged into the water. To his delight, he was able to locate and retrieve his camera thanks to the watch's clear visibility and accurate timekeeping.

Lesson Learned: The versatility of the Ray II extends beyond diving, making it an essential tool for adventurers and hobbyists alike.

Story 3:

A watch collector named Mark wanted to add a classic dive watch to his collection but was hesitant due to the high prices of Swiss counterparts. After extensive research, he discovered the Orient Ray II. Impressed by its performance and affordability, Mark purchased the watch and quickly became a devoted fan. He often boasts that his Ray II offers a quality that rivals much more expensive timepieces.

Lesson Learned: Value for money can be found in unexpected places.

Comparison to the Orient Mako II

The Orient Ray II is often compared to the Orient Mako II, another popular dive watch from Orient. Both watches share many similarities, such as the F6922 movement, 200-meter water resistance, and classic dive watch design. However, the Ray II has a few key differences:

• Smaller case: 41.4mm vs. 43mm
• Lumed bezel: Yes vs. No
• Rubber strap: Yes vs. Stainless steel bracelet or rubber strap
• Price: Slightly lower than the Mako II

Tables

Table 1: Key Features of the Orient Ray II

Table 2: Comparison between the Orient Ray II and Mako II

Table 3: Prices of the Orient Ray II

Tips and Tricks

• Customize the strap: The Ray II comes with a comfortable rubber strap, but you can easily swap it out for a NATO strap, leather strap, or metal bracelet to suit your personal style.
• Use the watch as a timer: The bezel can be used not only for dive timing but also for everyday activities such as cooking, studying, or exercising.
• Take care of the crystal: The mineral crystal is durable, but it's still important to avoid scratches by cleaning it with a soft cloth and avoiding contact with sharp objects.
• Get it serviced regularly: Like any mechanical watch, the Ray II requires periodic servicing to maintain its accuracy and functionality.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Reliable and accurate movement
• ISO 6425 certified for diving
• Versatile design
• Durable construction

Cons:

• Mineral crystal is less scratch-resistant than sapphire crystal
• Smaller case size may not suit all wrists
• Some users report issues with the rubber strap's longevity

FAQs

1. Is the Orient Ray II a good dive watch?

Yes, the Ray II is an excellent dive watch for recreational divers and enthusiasts. Its ISO 6425 certification, 200-meter water resistance, and clear visibility make it a reliable timekeeping tool underwater.

2. How accurate is the Orient Ray II?

The Ray II's F6922 movement is known for its accuracy. It has a vibration frequency of 21,600 bph and a power reserve of approximately 40 hours.

3. Is the Orient Ray II worth buying?

If you're looking for an affordable, reliable, and stylish dive watch, the Orient Ray II is a great choice. Its combination of features, performance, and value makes it an exceptional timepiece for watch enthusiasts and divers alike.

4. What size is the Orient Ray II?

The Ray II has a case diameter of 41.4mm and a thickness of 13.4mm. It is a comfortable fit for most wrist sizes.

5. Is the Orient Ray II discontinued?

No, the Orient Ray II is not discontinued. It is still available for purchase from Orient's official website and authorized retailers.

6. Where can I buy an Orient Ray II?

The Orient Ray II can be purchased from Orient's official website, Amazon, Jomashop, and other authorized retailers.

7. What is the difference between the Orient Ray II and the Ray III?

The Orient Ray III is a newer model that features a few upgrades compared to the Ray II:

• Sapphire crystal: More scratch-resistant than the mineral crystal on the Ray II
• Solid end links: The bracelet has solid end links for a more secure fit
• Screw-down crown: Provides better water resistance

8. Is the Orient Ray II suitable for everyday wear?

Yes, the Orient Ray II is a versatile watch that can be worn in various settings, including casual, formal, and occupational. Its classic dive watch design and comfortable strap make it suitable for everyday use.