Just curious to know why Orient have used the correct Roman numerals for the 2, 6, 8,10 and 12 positions but have IIII for the 4 position which should be IV. Or is this a reference to a watch-specific convention I am not familiar with?
DrFingerlessto add onto bri1232002. it actually happens on a lot of watches that uses numerals. I believe that it has something to do with roman mythology and has since then become some sort of tradition in the watch making world.
Short answer is that it's a tradition and we're not sure why, the best answer is probably a symmetry or design thing as it offsets the VIII on the other side of the watch.
http://orientwatchusa.com/collections/mens-watches/classic/er2400bw