I have had this Vintage Orient King Diver for about a month or so, and it is about time I posted it on my site. This is the second Vintage Orient King Diver I have owned, the first one was a little earlier from the early 1970’s with a black face. Like in the picture below.
This model is from the mid/late 1970’s with a blue face and multi coloured bezel. You can tell the difference between these models as the later blue coloured dial only says KD on the dial instead of King Diver.
Both models come with an automatic day/date movement, earlier models can have the date at 9 o’clock and the day at 3 o’clock. The late 1970’s models are both at 3 o’clock. Those of you who have a keen eye will notice the crystal is cracked, I have a new one on route courtesy of Bruce from TWF, Thank-you! The second crown at 4 o clock controls the inner bezel it is bi directional, away to measure your diving time. I think most are desk divers, mines certainly is! The bracelet is original to the watch, it is a little cheap and cheerful and despite it being a little bit of a hair puller, I have been able to cope with it. I think it looks better on steel than rubber or leather. It houses a very reliable Orient 21 Jewel automatic caliber, that is accurate and robust. I have never serviced this watch and just keeps on going!
There was a recent influx of these blue KD model on Ebay a year or two ago. I believe they were models that were made up of New Old Stock parts. Mine pictured is an original model that was retailed in the mid/late 1970’s. The major differences are the hands and the date and day wheel are nicely aged. On the Franken watches the day/date wheel is new.
The back-cases on Vintage Orient Watches are always nice and this one is no exception, showing off the coat of arms logo which is also embossed on the dial.
