One of the most charismatic and imposing vintage pieces of Japanese watchmaking is the Orient King Diver Deluxe. This model is not one of the popular re-issue versions of today; it is a completely original vintage piece carrying the spirit of Orient from the late 1960s and early 1970s. With its large case and multi-functional dial, living up to its "King Diver" name, it is a "Super Compressor" style diving watch with high collectible value.
Case Design and Wrist Comfort
The watch features a revolutionary 42 mm diameter case made of stainless steel, quite masculine for its time. The three-button mechanism on the right side of the case is the control center of the watch: the button at 2 o'clock is used for day setting, the crown at 3 o'clock for time setting, and the crown at 4 o'clock for moving the inner rotating bezel. Despite such a large case, thanks to the ergonomics of the lug structure, it offers a very balanced and assertive look on the wrist.
Dial Details and Condition
The Orient "AAA Deluxe" crest and three-star symbol on the black dial highlight this watch's position as a top-segment dive watch in the Orient hierarchy. Both the day and date windows are located at the 3 o'clock position, while the day disc features rare "Kanji" characters. The inner rotating bezel, designed for measuring dive times, is in impeccable condition; the lettering is clear and the rotating mechanism runs smoothly. While the luminaire fillings on the hands and indices have acquired a vintage-appropriate patina, they retain their form perfectly.
Technical Specifications and Movement
Movement: Rare and high-performance 23-jewel Orient 4951 (marked with code H5) automatic caliber.
Reference Number: O 349-10670.
Case Diameter: 42 mm. Functions: Inner rotating bezel, quick day setting (push button), date, and automatic winding.
Production Date: Based on the serial number "H5" on the movement and the design language, this particular piece was manufactured in May 1971.
Style and Usage Recommendation
The Vintage King Diver elevates the "tool-watch" aesthetic, especially when paired with brown nubuck or leather straps. Its large size ensures it perfectly meets modern watch standards. It creates a stunning visual harmony with linen shirts in a seaside town and with leather jackets in everyday city life.
Final Assessment
This Orient King Diver Deluxe is one of the very few examples that has maintained such sharpness of case and clean dial despite its half-century age. Especially in an era where re-issue models are abundant, owning a vintage model with the original H-5 caliber and manufactured in May 1971 will enhance the historical depth of your collection. The flawless operation of the inner rotating bezel and Kanji day disc further enhances the watch's rarity.
The item you are viewing was manufactured in 1971.
Professionally restored and COMPLETELY SERVICED (mechanism completely disassembled, components cleaned, lubricated and adjusted), your watch will function flawlessly without any surprises. (It will not require maintenance for 3 years unless exposed to direct water or high humidity for an extended period.)
Product Condition: Tested, fully functional and in working order.
