Or3x launches the R3start series

I still don’t understand exactly what is being restarted. Is Or3x actually Orex? I can’t find any information to confirm this. Anyway, I’ll consider Or3x a new brand that wants to somehow revive the former Orex through the R3start model.

A little context. Orex used to be a Romanian brand, launched by the communist. Loved by romanians, the watches had disappeared in the years following the revolution. I will write a history article about them soon.

I dislike the spelling with a 3 instead of an e, but that’s probably because they don’t own the Orex brand.

Only 10 Or3x R3start watches were manufactured, and they are priced at 14,400 RON. Or 2,826 euros.

Or3x R3start Specifications

The OR3X R3start comes with a Swiss movement, ETA 2824-2 TOP GRADE, which offers an accuracy of +/-4 seconds per day and has 5-position adjustment. Even though the mechanism is Swiss, it does not meet the standards to receive the Swiss Made label.

The watch has a power reserve of 42 hours, automatic winding with 25 jewels, and the centering ring is manufactured and decorated in Romania.

Case

The R3start watch case is made of 316L stainless steel, which is fine, as it is known for its durability. The watch has a diameter of 39 mm and a height of 9.5 mm. From what I can see, it has high-polished surfaces combined with satin-finished areas.

The sapphire crystal is present on the front and back, which is nice because it allows you to see the mechanism but is also protected at the same time.

Unfortunately, the water resistance is quite low, 50 meters. I think I’ve mentioned several times that I’m annoyed by watches that have a resistance of less than 100 meters. But that’s just a personal thing.

It’s also worth mentioning that the distance between the lugs is 20 mm, which is the same as most watches. So it’s pretty easy to find straps for it.

Dial Handcrafted in Romania

Let us be clear. When something is handcrafted, it is only special if it is truly exceptional. Does that make sense? For example, a special handcrafted dial is the one from the Breguet Marine Hora Mundi 5555 or the dials from Constantime, another Romanian brand that are custom made and handcrafted, which look exceptional. We already spoked about Constantime the new brand from Transylvania.

The Or3x R3start dial is cut and processed by hand, painted and pad printed by hand for precise inscriptions.

The hands and crown are Made in Romania, processed and finished by hand. The natural leather strap is also handmade and manufactured entirely in Romania.

What makes the Or3x R3start special?

Well, the fact that it appeals to our nostalgia as watch enthusiasts. The fact that it comes in a limited edition of only 10 pieces is another strong point because it makes it quite rare.

They manage to combine the Swiss Made quality of the mechanism with Romanian craftsmanship. The rotor is decorated by hand along with the other components such as the case, dial, hands, etc.

It seems to me that we are seeing the beginning of a restart of the watchmaking industry in Romania, and the Or3x brand, together with Constantime, are pioneers at the moment. And I appreciate the dedication these people show.

Is the Or3x R3start model worth 2826 EUR? I don’t know what to say, for me, not really. I would have liked to see something more, maybe a date complication? Maybe a nicer dial. Something that would catch my eye.

What is certain is that the watch industry in Romania is gaining momentum, and that makes me happy.

Maybe I’ll get a lot of criticism for not being very complimentary about the Romanian brand. But through this project, we set out to be honest and tell it like it is, and so far we are succeeding.

I am happy that we have a new brand, but my expectations were a little higher in the case of Or3x.

More info about the watch on official website