Orient Ray II Unboxing

I just received a brand new present for myself –

What’s in the box? Nothing other than a brand new Orient Ray II dive watch, which is considered one of the best dive watches available for under $200 (along with the Mako II, which varies only in style)

Let’s see just what I’ve got.

Within the white box above – which was a bit grubby looking – I find this nice looking presentation box. Orient’s logo is dead center on a metal plate, and the rest of the box is a dark black. It’s not a high-end presentation box by any means, but nicer than what Seiko includes with their lower end divers.

Besides the presentation box, I get a couple of papers: a pretty standard manual and warranty/guarantee paperwork.

Opening the box, I get my first look at the Ray II in person, resting on a white pillow. As you can see, I selected the blue dialed model. There’s several other models available, including one with a black PVD case. 

Taking a closer look – first impression is that this is a good looking, dressy diver. 

A nice, minimalist dial. Applied markers, date window with ‘framing’, and a pretty sunburst patterned blue background. Just the logo up top and ‘water resist, 200m’ down below.

Here’s something I never noticed from the product images: the bracelet links are polished to a mirror finish in two rows. When I first took it out I actually thought the links had gaps in between them. This technique adds some eye-catching contrast to the bracelet. My first impression of the bracelet is that it’s light weight, but well put together.

Nothing too fancy with the case-back. Basic information with an engraved pattern in the middle.

My overall impression? I think I’ll enjoy wearing it. I won’t say anything more until I’ve worn it for a couple weeks, taken it diving, and written up my comprehensive review. 

Stay tuned.