Orient A H429-22861 (1970-1979)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage Capturing the essence of 1970s Japanese watchmaking, this Orient timepiece showcases a striking gradient dial housed beneath a dramatic, vertically faceted crystal. It represents a bold era of design where light play, unconventional geometry, and rich textures took center stage, offering collectors a highly expressive and mechanically robust vintage experience. Brand: Orient Reference Number: H429-22861 Movement: Automatic Caliber 42950, 23 Jewels Dial: Gradient smoky brown to grey dial with applied gold-tone indices, presenting in exceptionally clean condition with no visible spots or damage Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a beautifully preserved dial and sharp case geometry Dial and Hands The dial is a stunning example of 1970s design, featuring a vertical gradient finish that transitions gracefully from a smoky dark brown at the outer edges to a lighter, silvery-grey in the center. It is adorned with applied, faceted gold-tone hour markers that catch the light beautifully, complemented by a prominently gold-framed day and date aperture at the 3 o'clock position. The applied 'Orient' signature and the 'A' logo remain crisp and highly reflective. The gold-tone baton hands feature intact luminous strips that exhibit an age-consistent, warm patina. A thorough visual inspection reveals the dial remains in exceptionally clean condition, free from moisture marks, spotting, staining, or edge wear, perfectly preserving its original factory luster. Case and Crystal The 36mm stainless steel cushion case exemplifies era-correct geometry with distinct horizontal brushing across the upper broad surfaces and highly polished case flanks. The transitions between the brushed and polished areas remain sharp and well-defined, showing only honest, light handling marks consistent with careful vintage wear. A dedicated pusher located at the 2 o'clock position operates the date quickset function. The watch is fitted with a remarkable faceted crystal, featuring distinct vertical cuts that create dynamic optical distortions and a captivating light play across the dial below. The crystal is well-preserved, showing only minor surface wear that does not detract from its striking appearance. The screw-down caseback is clearly engraved with the Orient crest, water resistance markings, and the reference number H429-22861. Movement Inside beats the Orient Caliber 42950, a 23-jewel automatic movement. Close inspection of the movement reveals clean plates and a clearly signed rotor deeply engraved with "ORIENT 42950 23J" alongside the Japan factory markings. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. The timegrapher records a deviation of -55 to -60 seconds per day. Strap The watch is presented on its original Orient stainless steel bracelet, featuring a distinctive and highly articulated block-link design. The folding clasp is proudly stamped with the Orient signature. The bracelet shows normal vintage stretch and light surface wear appropriate for its age, comfortably accommodating a wrist size of up to 17.5cm. Condition This Orient is graded in excellent vintage condition. The case retains its factory brushing and sharp architectural lines, avoiding the softened, over-polished look often seen in watches of this era. The gradient dial is remarkably clean and free of degradation, while the signature faceted crystal remains a standout feature with excellent clarity. The movement is running securely, and the presence of the original signed bracelet completes this highly collectible and well-preserved package. Dimensions Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Wrist Size: 17.5 cm Remarks This timepiece is a fantastic representation of bold 1970s Japanese styling. The combination of the vertically faceted crystal, the flawless gradient dial, and the original block-link bracelet makes it a visually captivating addition to any vintage collection, offering immense wrist presence and retro charm. History Orient Watch Company has a rich heritage of producing distinctive and robust mechanical timepieces. During the 1970s, the brand embraced avant-garde design philosophies, experimenting heavily with vibrant gradient dials, dramatically faceted crystals, and unique case geometries to compete in the dynamic Japanese domestic and international markets. Models from this era are increasingly appreciated by modern collectors for their undeniable character, expressive styling, and reliable in-house manufacturing. / Second Vintage SKU: ORI1S4C6D0000