Orient Symphony Gen II Automatic Watch Discussions | Drop

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Mar 21, 2020

Since ordering this watch, I’ve done some after the fact research on this model. Looking at the Gen I, I am pleased to see how the Gen II swapped the (in my opinion) oversized Arabic numerals for index markers. The markers are slim, polished and beveled not only along their length, but at the outer ends, the 12 index having a wider double bevel shape. These mimic the hour and minute hands. I confess the contrasting reflections on the polished hands in the pictures were what first caught my attention. Again, this bevel is repeated on the chapter ring. The beveled ring gives the face a sense of depth and in my opinion highlights the minute marks all around. Orient also made the brilliant decision to give the Gen II a sapphire crystal on both sides. This feature on what Drop offers for $99 is remarkable. Seeing pictures of and reading descriptions of the Gen III make me so relieved that I have this chance to get the Gen II. The only thing that I find appealing in the Gen III is the addition of hand winding to the automatic movement. All the esthetic features I find appealing in the Gen II are gone. Gen III flattens and de-emphasizes the bevels all over. The index markers are flattened and lose the end bevels. The chapter ring is flat with the dial. The hands still have some of the bevel but are narrower and spear tip shaped rather than a continuously increasing widening to the center. More “dressy” and perhaps elegant looking, but less appealing to me. Worst of all, they revert to mineral crystals. I received my shipment notification yesterday and am anxiously waiting for my watch. I hope the real thing matches the style and appearance of the pictures. I intend to add a review once I have spent some time (see what I did there?) with my new acquisition.