Orient RA-AK Defender Automatic Watch Discussions | Drop

Oct 2, 2020

The thing about Orient is that they never seem to be able to coordinate/balance the components of the dial as well as Seiko. Here the hands seem out of place/proportion; sub dials are awkwardly placed. The design seems random; even childish. I think they can do better—so can you!

A community member

Oct 5, 2020

RayFAgree. This watch could easily have been so much better - even a classic practical and aesthetic watch choice with just a little thought.

AO_mke

Oct 6, 2020

RayFI have the 1st gen defender which is better looking in my opinion, unfortunately it also has a lesser movement.

Oct 6, 2020

AO_mke Had a similar issue with my first gen Seiko Monster. I’ve since fixed the problem ;- )

Vote

Feb 27, 2021

RayFDid you throw a 4R35 into your Seiko? Or 36 or whatever the one is with day/date?

Feb 27, 2021

Glen8 Yes.

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Feb 27, 2021

RayFDid you do it yourself? I'm curious what is the best way for an amateur to remove and replace handsets?

Feb 28, 2021

Glen8 No, I was doing some research on Monsters and came upon site where a guy was offering one for sale (already upgraded) and I snapped it up. I am, however, considering updating my SKX007 and when I do, I'm going to follow the instructions in this video--the guy walks you through every step of the process (with links to removing/replacing handsets), and shows you all the tools and tricks you'll need for a happy ending. I'd watch it a few times before you start: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBDovw8LmMw

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Feb 28, 2021

RayFThanks Ray I appreciate that, I've changed out movement and dial assemblies with the hands still attached (swapped them from one color way to another) for some cool variations, and bought several different types of tools for pulling hands but haven't been very successful using them on practice watches yet

(Edited)

Vote

Feb 28, 2021

Glen8 The guy in the video gives me confidence—but I’ll probably start with a practice watch or two, before I tackle one of my good watches. Let us know how it turns out and don’t forget to post some shots.

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