Orient Bambino is one of the best affordable dress watches you can buy.
Orient is a Japanese watch brand that is owned by the Seiko/Epson watch group.
Orient have come out with newest Orient Bambino Generation 2 collection. Which is their best collection of affordable mechanical dress watches yet.
It includes a total of 8 styles, which are called Versions.
Check out the quick overview of the range and then a review of each style.
Orient Bambino Review
Orient Bambino FAQ
- Is Orient Bambino a good watch?
- How much is an Orient Bambino watch?
- Best place to buy an Orient Bambino watch?
- Which Orient Bambino Version is best?
- Is Orient Bambino a dress watch?
- Is Orient Bambino automatic?
- How long does Orient Bambino last?
- Is Seiko better than Orient?
- Is Orient a luxury watch?
- Is Orient a good brand?
- Are Orient watches made in China?
- Is Orient a Seiko brand?
- What is the difference between Orient and Orient Star watches?
- How much is an Orient watch?
Orient
Orient is a Japanese watch brand that is now owned by the Seiko/Epson watch group.
The Orient watch company began in 1950. They are one of the top affordable watch brands in the world. Loved for their affordable mechanical watches.
Orient Bambino refers to their Classic Contemporary collection of mechanical dress watches.
Orient Bambino Gen 1 vs. Gen 2
There are generations of the Bambino, and then versions within each of the generations.
The versions are purely cosmetic differences.
Generation 2 brought about the automatic movements hand-winding, and also allows you to stop the movement. Also known as watch hacking.
This allows you to set the time on your watch with pulling out and winding the crown.
All of Orient Bambino’s automatic movements are made in Japan.
The new calibers they use in the Generation 2 are the following:
- F6724 Caliber Automatic
- Version 1
- Version 2
- Version 3
- F6222 Caliber Automatic
- Small Seconds
- F6T22 Caliber Automatic
- Open Heart
Also in the Generation 2, the dial now has the phrase ‘Water Resistant’. Instead of ‘Water Resist’ spelt out on the dial of the Generation 1.
Both Generations are water resistant to 30 meters. They’re only splash water resistant. You shouldn’t take them into the shower with you.
Orient Bambino Comparison Chart
Here is an overview of the Bambino Gen 2 watch collection.
We’ve included all the versions of the range, along with the model numbers for each of the watches in that style. A quick description of their style. Plus a photo of the watches.
Every version comes with an automatic movement made in Japan. The watches all have a domed mineral too. Plus every version’s case is made from stainless steel.
| Version | Style | Photo |
| Version 1 | Non-Roman Numerals Domed Mineral (Protects the dial and adds thickness and a distortion to the watch dial) |  Buy Now |
| Version 2 | Roman Numerals Domed Mineral |  Buy Now |
| Version 3 | Bauhaus Inspired Style Domed Mineral |  Buy Now |
| Version 4 | Larger Case Size: 42mm Dipped Red Minute Hand Domed Mineral |  Buy Now |
| Version 5 | Arabic Numerals Domed Mineral Transparent Caseback Steel bracelet Domed Mineral Transparent Caseback |   Buy Now |
| Version 5S | Smaller Case Size: 36.4mm Domed Mineral Thickest Version: 12.5mm |  Buy Now |
| Sub Seconds | Small Seconds Subdial Domed Mineral Transparent Caseback |  Buy Now |
| Open Heart | Open Hole (Which is a hole in the dial displaying the balance wheel) Domed Mineral Transparent Caseback |  Buy Now |
*Each watch code has an extra letter(s)/number(s) at the start and end. They’re a factory code and a distributor code.
Orient Bambino Review
Versions refer to the different styles of the Bambino Generation 2.
There are 8 versions of the in total. They are:
Check out a review of each version below. Find out which you like best.
Orient Bambino Version 1
Measurements: > 40.5mm diameter > 11.8mm thickness > 21mm lug width Movement: > F6724 Caliber Automatic
Version 1 of the Orient Bambino Generation 2 collection is their original and classic of the collection.
This version along with all the versions in Generation 2. Have the domed mineral which creates the height and the distorted look of the dial from an angle.
This Version comes in 5 dial and case combinations. All cases are stainless steel, and feature polished hour markers. Along with polished classic Dauphine hands.
There also is a black or white border around the date on the dial. Which makes the date stand out on the minimalist dial.
Discover the Orient Bambino Version 1 collection on Amazon.
Orient Bambino Version 2
Measurements: > 40.5mm diameter > 11.8mm thickness > 21mm lug width Movement: > F6724 Caliber Automatic
The Version 2 Orient Bambino, has the most vintage aesthetic of this range.
Orient says that Version 2 is made to pay homage to timepieces of the past. Yet, with popular modern sizing.
With the Roman numeral indices and the domed mineral giving the watch a distorted look from certain angles. This timepiece stands out and looks more expensive than it actually is.
Silver is the main color choice for the case. Paired with a white, black or champagne colored dial. However, they have a popular gold case option paired with a white dial too.
Discover the Orient Bambino Version 2 collection on Amazon.
Orient Bambino Version 3
Measurements: > 40.5mm diameter > 11.8mm thickness > 21mm lug width Movement: > F6724 Caliber Automatic
The Version 3 of the Orient Bambino Generation 2. Is one of the most loved. As this version is in a very popular Bauhaus inspired style.
Bauhaus is German design concept. It’s a minimalist, modern style.
This concept can be seen in the Version 3 watches. As it involves simple, uncluttered dials. Along with long, thin rectangular hands, and clear rectangle indices too.
The Version 3 is a big favorite among Orient fans. As this watch would suit any modern watch collection. With its clean, simple style.
You should check out German watch brands. Along with Danish watch brands. If you want to find other brands that design watches using this style.
Discover the Orient Bambino Version 3 collection on Amazon.
Orient Bambino Version 4
Measurements: > 42mm diameter > 11.8mm thickness > 22mm lug width Movement: > F6724 Caliber Automatic
The Orient Bambino Version 4 goes back to the original style of Version 1.
The main difference is the size, it’s a larger case size at 42mm. Also the hour markers are in diamond shapes on this model.
The dials come in colors that offer a different choice. Like green and navy. They all come in a sunburst style.
The dipped red minute hand also stands out nicely on the dial.
Plus this range includes a camel-colored suede strap. And the lug width of 22mm is a more common size compared to all the other Bambino Versions.
Discover the Orient Bambino Version 4 collection on Amazon.
Orient Bambino Version 5
Measurements: > 40.5mm diameter > 12mm thickness > 21mm lug width Movement: > F6724 Caliber Automatic
Part 1 of Version 5 includes the first all Arabic numerals hour markers.
All three styles with these indices come with white dials. But you have a choice of three case colors; yellow gold, rose gold, or silver.
The hands of this version stand out too. With distinct and curved, leaf shaped hands. Adding to its elegant look.
It is similar to the Version 2 in that it has a bit of an old world aesthetic.
The caseback is transparent. So that you can see your new automatic timepiece at work.
Discover the Version 5 Orient Bambino collection on Amazon.
Measurements: > 40.5mm diameter > 112m thickness > 21mm lug width Movement: > F6724 Caliber Automatic
Part 2 of Version 5 sees the Orient Bambino watch come with a stainless silver bracelet, instead of its usual leather strap.
The dial features a sunburst effect. And the timepiece still has the domed mineral on the case that gives the dial a distorted effect and its thickness.
The style of the dial is like the style seen in Version 4.
This watch also features a transparent caseback, so that you can look inside at the Orient automatic movement.
Discover the Version 5 Orient Bambino collection on Amazon.
Orient Bambino Version 5S
Measurements: > 36.4mm diameter > 12.5mm thickness > 17mm lug width Movement: > F6724 Caliber Automatic
Those after a smaller case size for their dress watch can rejoice!
Orient has a style with a case size of 36.4mm. The Version 5S. This size fits almost within the traditional classic dress watch size for men of 34mm to 36mm.
The whole idea of a dress watch was for it to be able to tuck neatly under the sleeve of your tux. Nowadays though, larger watches are in.
A 36.4mm case size today is regarded as a unisex size. They would suit men or women. Big or small wrists.
This version of the Bambino still features the domed mineral. Which gives the watch that characteristic thickness. With this version being the thickest watch at 12.5mm.
Discover the Version 5S Orient Bambino collection on Amazon.
Orient Bambino Small Seconds
Measurements: > 40.5mm diameter > 12mm thickness > 21mm lug width Movement: > F6T22 Caliber Automatic
This version of the Orient Bambino replaces the long seconds hand for a small seconds subdial.
The case is available in 5 combinations. With a choice of silver, yellow gold or rose gold cases available.
This style also features Arabic numerals at the hour markers of 12, 3, 6, and 9.
Plus the watch comes with a transparent caseback so you can take a look at your automatic watch at work.
Discover the Orient Bambino Small Seconds collection on Amazon.
Orient Bambino Open Heart
Measurements: > 40.5mm diameter > 12mm thickness > 21mm lug width Movement: > F6T22 Caliber Automatic
The defining feature of this Orient Bambino version is the open heart.
An open heart refers to a hole in the dial that gives you a look into the balance wheel. The balance is a part of a watch’s mechanical movement.
It really is a beautiful watch. It gives you a look into the beating heart of your timepiece.
You can see the caliber F6724 automatic at work. In the font and in the back of the watch. As this timepiece comes with a transparent caseback.
This watch does not include a date complication.
Discover the Orient Bambino Open Heart collection on Amazon.
Pros + Cons of Orient Bambino Generation 2
Here are our top 6 pros and our top 3 cons of the Orient Bambino Gen 2 collection.
Pros
- Price: Super affordable prices! From around $100 dollars to under $400 dollars. Orient is overall one of the most affordable and high-quality watch brands in the world.
- Automatic Movement: Mechanical watches can be expensive. This is such a great option for those on a budget and looking for a well made automatic dress watch.
- Diverse Range: Such a great selection of dress watches to choose from. From vintage aesthetic, basque style, or an open heart style too.
- Smaller Case Size Option: Thanks to the release of the Version 5S. Orient Bambino has a more diverse selection of case sizes to choose from. An affordable automatic dress watch that’s 36.4mm, is a very welcome offering to many.
- Larger Case Size Option: This collection also has a larger case size offering in Version 4 at a size of 42mm.
- Brand: Orient is one of the best Japanese watch brands on the market. You’re making a purchase with a brand that has a strong heritage.
Cons
- Lug Size: Orient seem to like to choose awkward and uncommon lug sizes for their watches. A 21mm lug and a 17mm lug is very uncommon. So that means you’ll have less choice in straps. The Version 4 is an exception as it has a 22mm lug width, which is much more common.
- Thickness: Some may find that the domed mineral over the dial makes the watch too thick. It will come down to your preference.
- Naming Scheme: The naming of the Orient Bambino range is super confusing. Use the overview and pictures above to help you figure out the different Versions of the Orient Bambino Generation 2.
Where To Buy Orient Bambino Watches?
Orient Bambino watches are often on sale for discounted prices on their Amazon store.
Check out the Orient Bambino Amazon store now.
Orient Bambino FAQ
Here are a few frequently asked questions about the Orient Bambino collection and Orient as a watch brand.
1. Is Orient Bambino a good watch?
Yes. Orient Bambino are considered one of the best choices for an affordable automatic dress watch.
2. How much is an Orient Bambino watch?
An Orient Bambino watch can cost anywhere from around $100 dollars to under $400 dollars.
They make a great entry-level watch.
3. Best place to buy an Orient Bambino watch?
The Orient Bambino Amazon store is where you can usually find the best price for these watches.
4. Which Orient Bambino version is best?
This is difficult but if we had to rank the Orient Bambino Generation 2 collection:
- Version 3
- Version 2
- Version 5
- Version 5S
- Open Heart
- Small Seconds
- Version 1
- Version 4
5. Is Orient Bambino a dress watch?
Yes. Orient Bambino is a modern dress watch. However, it is a large size for a dress watch, compared to traditional standards. Especially when the height is taken into consideration.
A traditional men’s dress watch has a case size of 35mm to 38mm. However, today larger watches are more popular in all styles including dress watches.
Orient Bambino’s Version 5S is the best pick if you’re looking for a more traditional sized dress watch. As they come in a case size of 36.4mm.
6. Is Orient Bambino automatic?
Yes. The Orient Bambino Generation 2 has an automatic movement. It’s the Orient in-house movement, the caliber F6724 automatic.
7. How long does Orient Bambino last?
How long your Orient Bambino will last depends on how well you look after it.
You should service your automatic watch, like the Orient Bambino, at least once every 3 to 5 years.
Servicing your mechanical watch regularly will help it to last a very long time.
8. Is Seiko better than Orient?
Seiko is still king in the watchmaking world, compared to Orient.
Orient is a great and overall a more affordable watch brand. Also their styles are unique to them.
Yet, Seiko often has a higher quality watch for not that much of a price increase. Check out the Seiko Presage range which offers Seiko dress watches.
9. Is Orient a luxury watch?
Overall Orient is considered an affordable watch brand. Not a luxury watch brand. However, their Orient Star collection is more expensive and of higher quality.
Interested in luxury watch brands, then check out the best luxury watch brands from around the world.
10. Is Orient a good brand?
Yes. Orient is an excellent watch brand for producing well made and affordable watches that look great. They offer great value for money.
We regard Orient as one of the top 10 most affordable watch brands in the world.
11. Are Orient watches made in China?
All the movement’s of Orient watches are made in Japan. The Orient Star collection is made entirely in Japan.
12. Is Orient a Seiko brand?
Orient is its own unique watch brand. However, Orient is owned by the Seiko/Epson watch group.
13. What is the difference between Orient and Orient Star watches?
Orient Star watches are of higher quality and made entirely in Japan. They’re the more expensive range of Orient watches.
14. How much is an Orient watch?
All Orient watches are in the price range of around $100 dollars to around $2,500 dollars.
