Introducing: The Orient Star M45 F7 Small Second In Three Variants
Orient Star unveils its latest anniversary release in three versions. The Orient Star M45 F7 Small Second comes in green and ivory as part of the regular catalog, while a dark gray-to-black version is limited to 500 pieces. This collection leans into classic styling with a balanced layout. A subsidiary seconds dial sits at 6 o’clock, while the power reserve indicator rests at 12. The elongated Roman numerals remain fully intact, even with these sub-dials in place. The design also features elegant leaf-shaped hands and one of the most subtle power reserve displays in Orient Star’s lineup. The 39mm 316L stainless steel case measures 11.7mm thick, giving the watch classic proportions.
The celebration continues for Orient Star as its 75th anniversary rolls on. The brand revealed its full lineup back in February but shared few details then. Now that the watches are hitting the market, more information is slowly emerging. We’ve already covered the astronomical M34 F8 Date Meteorite and the ocean-going M42 Diver 1964. This latest release takes a more grounded approach and suits everyday wear. Still, the cosmic theme remains, taking inspiration from the M45 Pleiades star cluster. You might know it as the Seven Sisters, or Subaru (昴). The Japanese carmaker of the same name even references the cluster in its star-filled logo.
Orient Star M45 F7 Small Second
The gray version may headline the collection, but the green model deserves attention first. Like all Orient Star models since the 1990s, this watch includes a power reserve indicator. Owners may not always need this scale since these watches are automatic. However, the dress-focused nature and 30m water resistance may mean the watches sit unworn over a weekend. By contrast, a model like the M42 Diver 1964 is better suited to more active use.
That makes the M45 F7 Small Second a weekday companion that needs to keep running. With a 50-hour power reserve, it probably needs a quick wind before Monday. Therefore, the power indicator comes in handy. If the small leaf-shaped hand points near the applied dot at 11 o’clock, you know it’s time to wind the watch. After a few turns, the indicator moves toward the 1 o’clock dot, giving it enough energy for the coming week.
On the green dial, the tonal variation appears between the main surface and the fan-shaped power reserve scale. This shade is more pine green, adding color without overpowering the dress aesthetic. The recessed sub-seconds register also features a sunray finish, contrasting nicely with the textured dial surface. A railway-style minute track completes the design and allows for precise time setting.
Green, ivory, or gray
The ivory version keeps the same layout but shifts the visual experience. Its dial tone softens the contrast between elements, creating a more uniform appearance. At a glance, the power reserve scale can appear unchanged in tone. I even thought so when wearing it under ambient restaurant lighting. On closer inspection, the variation is there, just very subtle. The same effect applies to the small seconds dial. If you prefer a cleaner, more consistent look, the ivory version works best.
The final option is the 500-piece limited edition in dark gray. It features a grainy dial paired with a sandblasted running seconds sub-dial. This version makes the most of its cosmic inspiration amongst the trio. The dial resembles a clear night sky filled with stars. Like the green version, it uses white printing for the Roman numerals. Only the ivory model switches to black numerals, darkened hands, and a matching logo at 3 o’clock.
Across all versions, the case has a 39mm diameter and 45.7mm lug-to-lug. It sits slightly larger for a dress watch but remains wearable for most wrists. The conical crown offers a solid grip, while the polished bezel adds refinement.
Final specs, thoughts, and pricing
On the back, a sapphire window reveals the in-house caliber F7H44. A steel surround frames the transparent display, featuring the limited-edition number and anniversary commemoration on the gray-dial version. The rotor carries the brand’s logo and features wavy etches for added detail. Caliber F7H44 has a stated accuracy deviation tolerance of -5/+15 seconds per day. That figure feels conservative but is still competitive at this price point. For comparison, Seiko’s 4R35 has a stated accuracy of -35/+45 seconds per day. Against that, the Orient Star F7H44’s performance specs look stronger.
The green and ivory models come with brown leather straps and a steel push-button deployant clasp. The limited gray version pairs with a black leather strap and similar hardware.
All models are available now, with the green and ivory versions costing €999.99 / £869.99 and the 500-piece gray-dial limited edition retailing for €1,049.99 / £912.99.
Having seen all three in person, I’m less drawn to the limited edition than expected. Instead, the ivory dial stands out for its clean and balanced look. But which version do you prefer? Let us know in the comments below.
For more details on these Orient Star timepieces, visit the brand’s global website here.
