Yesterday, we started taking a look at the Orange Watch Co, based out of Australia. If you read that post, you learn more about the company, and why I feel that they have a passion for watches that translates into a product you’d do well to consider.
At this time, OWC has a single model (with a few variants) available, the Military Submariner. This is one of their ISO (In the Spirit Of) models, and as such, is a piece that draws inspiration from other models. Some may use the term “homage” as a derogatory term, but to my eyes, if they’re not trying to pass it off as the original, why not have a closer look?
And of course, OWC is quite upfront about what the watch is, and what is contained within the case – no surprises there. So, what all makes up this MilSub homage?
- 40mm 316L Stainless Steel Case; 20mm lugs
- Choice of movement: Seagull ST-1812 or Soprod A-10
- OWC’s custom compression spring and movement ring
- 300m water resistance
- Flat sapphire crystal (AR coating on the underside)
- Screw-down crown
- Unidirectional bezel with ceramic insert (black or blue)
- Dial: black or blue
- Hands: sword or snowflake
- Superluminova lume
- 316L SS bracelet
As you can see, you have an good bit of choice when it comes to putting together the exact look you might desire. All of this can be yours for the asking, for only $405 (with the Seagull) or $705 (with the Soprod).
In the end, I feel that this looks much better than any Milsub inspired piece that you’re liable to find in the mall or on the ‘bay. The one part I’m torn on is the lack of a date display. While that’s a small complication, I’ve grown to like it in many watches. On the flip side, in a milsub, I really have not been a big fan of the cyclops eye on the crystal. So, perhaps we’ll call it a wash.
If I was currently looking to add a milsub-inspired piece to my collection, OWC would definitely be one of my first stops. A lot of that is based on the interaction that I’ve had to date with the company, and feeling I took away from those discussions. You can also find a good bit of activity and discussion on OWC in the various forums. As ol’ Levar Burton taught us. “Don’t just take my word for it.”
