To commemorate STI’s Subaru WRX tS win in the 40th ADAC Zurich 24-Hour Race (also known as the Nürburgring 24-Hour Race), Orient has created a limited edition collaboration watch between themselves and Subaru Tecnica International Inc. (STI). The WRX STI tS went onto win the SP3T class race for the second year in a row. This watch, in a watch case similar to the extremely popular Orient M-Force Beast, features stylistic cues from STI and the WRX car that won the race.
As mentioned, the case of the Orient STI M-Force Limited Edition watch (SEL06002B0) is similar to that found on the M-Force Beast. By no means however is this watch the same as the Beast. The dial features ultra-legible white numerals and hour markers that are fully lumed. The hour and minute hands are very large and lumed as well; which is a must-have feature on any diver watch. You’ll notice also that the minute hand is distinctly outlined in a cherry red; a trademark of STI. Also in red are the minute markers on the 120 click stainless steel bezel. With 120 clicks, the bezel glides ever so smoothly (which is not to be mistaken for being lose), which is perfect. Besides the STI logo and fuel gauge-styled power reserve, the most interesting feature on the watch is definitely the carbon fiber dial.
The Orient STI M-Force Limited Edition is 47mm in diameter and 13.3mm thick. And you’re probably asking yourself: “Jeez, why so big?” The reason is due in part to Orient’s proprietary structuring within the case that boosts shock resistance and ensures water resistance at 200m. This special structure has earned this M-Force three ISO specifications: 6425 (diving), 764 (antimagnetic), and 1413 (shock resistance). To aid in the development of the watch, it was actually mounted in the WRX STI tS for the race. Needless to say, this watch will withstand pretty much everything thrown at it.
The watch is limited to 1,500 pieces worldwide. Each piece is individually numbered on the case back. Additionally engraved on the case back are the names of the drivers that competed, the name of the STI team manager and the result of the race. Each watch comes in an impressive watch box that was made specifically for this line. The box features a distinct red threading along the edges, and a textured material that is very reminiscent of carbon fiber. The watch comes with an additional Orient urethane band, which is the same kind that was worn by the drivers during the race. Overall, the presentation is spot on.
The Orient x STI M-Force Limited Edition is priced at $725 MSRP (but $507 with code 'orientsti').
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