The Stealth Diver: Why The Orient Ray Raven II Is Still The Ultimate Budget Watch In 2024

The Orient Ray Raven II (FAA02003B9) continues to command attention in the budget dive watch segment, even as we move through December 2025. This particular model, known for its all-black "stealth" aesthetic achieved through a Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating, is more than just a stylish variant of the popular Ray II; it represents one of the best value propositions combining an in-house automatic movement with genuine dive watch capability.

The core appeal in 2025 is the significant upgrade it received over its predecessor: the inclusion of the Caliber F6922 movement. This modern engine delivers essential features like hand-winding and hacking (stop-seconds), transforming a great budget watch into a truly exceptional one that competes fiercely with more expensive rivals from Seiko and Citizen. Its blend of rugged durability and sleek, versatile design keeps it a perennial favorite among enthusiasts and first-time mechanical watch buyers alike.

Orient Ray Raven II (FAA02003B9) Complete Technical Specifications

The Orient Ray Raven II is the PVD-coated version of the standard Ray II, offering a dark, tactical aesthetic that sets it apart. The watch's specifications highlight its capability as a robust 200m dive watch while maintaining a comfortable, wearable size for everyday use.

• 5 Shocking Facts About Anna Congdon Penn State Sweetheart To Nfl Fiances Social Media Firestorm Cc90e

• Model Number: FAA02003B9
• Nickname: Raven (or Ray Raven II)
• Case Material: Stainless Steel with Black PVD Coating
• Case Diameter: 41.5 mm
• Case Thickness: 13 mm
• Lug-to-Lug Distance: Approximately 47 mm
• Lug Width: 22 mm
• Movement: Orient Caliber F6922 Automatic (In-House)
• Movement Features: Hacking (Stop-Seconds) and Hand-Winding
• Jewels: 22 Jewels
• Frequency: 21,600 vibrations per hour (vph)
• Power Reserve: Approximately 40 Hours
• Accuracy (Stated): +25 / -15 seconds per day
• Crystal: Mineral Crystal
• Bezel: 120-Click Unidirectional Rotating Bezel
• Water Resistance: 200 meters (660 feet)
• Crown: Screw-Down Crown
• Dial: Matte Black with Lumed Indices and Hands
• Day/Date: Aperture at 3 o'clock

The F6922 Movement: The Game-Changing Upgrade

The single most important factor driving the continued success of the Ray II series, and by extension the Ray Raven II, is the implementation of the in-house Orient Caliber F6922 automatic movement. This was a critical update that corrected the main shortcomings of the original Ray model.

Hacking and Hand-Winding Functionality

The F6922 movement brought two highly requested features to the Ray and Mako lines: hacking and hand-winding. Previously, users of the original models had to rely solely on the automatic rotor for winding and could not precisely set the time to the second. The new movement changes this entirely.

• Hacking: The ability to stop the second hand when the crown is pulled out allows for precise time synchronization, a feature watch enthusiasts value highly for accuracy checks.
• Hand-Winding: This feature allows the wearer to manually wind the mainspring using the crown, ensuring the watch is fully powered before putting it on, which is especially useful if the watch has been off the wrist for a few days.

Operating at a frequency of 21,600 vph, the movement is a workhorse, offering a reliable 40-hour power reserve. While the stated accuracy of -15 to +25 seconds per day is standard for this price point, many users report better real-world performance, often regulating to single-digit deviations per day. The inclusion of the day and date complication at the 3 o'clock position adds to its practicality as an everyday timepiece.

• The Untouchable Privacy 7 Secrets Of Rachel Mcadams And Jamie Lindens Life Beyond The Red Carpet E820e

The Stealth Factor: Durability of the Black PVD Coating

The "Raven" designation comes from the watch's striking, deep-black aesthetic, achieved through a Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating over the stainless steel case and bracelet. This finish is the defining characteristic of the FAA02003B9 model, giving it a tactical and modern edge over the standard stainless steel Ray II, which has a more classic look.

Understanding PVD Technology

PVD is a sophisticated vacuum coating process that deposits a thin, highly durable layer of material onto the metal surface. In the world of watches, this coating is prized for its hardness and resistance to corrosion. While no coating is completely scratch-proof, the PVD on the Ray Raven II offers significantly enhanced durability compared to simple painted or electroplated finishes, making it a true tool watch that can handle daily wear.

The all-black look extends to the bezel insert, hands, and indices, which are filled with a luminous material for excellent legibility in low-light conditions. This "stealth" design makes the Ray Raven II incredibly versatile, easily pairing with casual wear, tactical gear, or even formal attire where a subtle, dark accessory is preferred. This aesthetic versatility is a major reason for its enduring popularity.

• 7 Shocking Things Jessica Capshaw Revealed About Growing Up With Steven Spielberg As Her Stepfather 892ho

Orient Ray II vs. Mako II: The Dial Difference

For those new to Orient's dive watch lineup, the choice often comes down to the Ray II and the Mako II. The Ray Raven II is simply the PVD-coated version of the Ray II. Fundamentally, the Ray II and Mako II are the same watch, sharing the exact same 41.5mm case, 200m water resistance rating, 120-click unidirectional bezel, and the excellent F6922 movement.

The primary difference lies in the dial design, which is a matter of personal preference:

• Orient Ray II (Raven): Features circular hour markers (dots) and a combination of stick and sword-style hands. This design is often considered more classic or traditional for a dive watch. The Ray II also features a lumed seconds hand.
• Orient Mako II: Utilizes a mix of bar-shaped markers and Arabic numerals (at 12, 6, and 9 o'clock) with pointier, dagger-style hands. This gives the Mako a slightly more vintage or field-watch aesthetic.

Choosing the Ray Raven II means opting for the classic circular dive marker layout paired with the sleek, modern aesthetic of the black PVD finish. It's a combination that offers the best of Orient's tool-watch heritage with a contemporary twist.

Conclusion: The Enduring Value Proposition

In a market saturated with budget-friendly dive watches, the Orient Ray Raven II (FAA02003B9) stands out as a genuine icon. Its continued relevance in 2025 is a testament to its quality construction, genuine 200-meter water resistance, and the powerful, feature-rich Caliber F6922 movement. The inclusion of hacking and hand-winding, combined with the distinctive and durable black PVD coating, makes this watch an unparalleled choice for those seeking a high-quality, versatile, and stealthy mechanical timepiece without breaking the bank. It is, without a doubt, one of the best budget automatic dive watches you can buy today.