I’ve considered buying an Orient Bambino several times over the years. The appeal has always been pretty straightforward. You get an automatic movement, traditional dress watch styling, and a price that doesn’t require much financial soul-searching. Still, the larger case sizes have always given me a reason to hold off. Orient’s latest release might finally change that, with a new Bambino Version 7 measuring just 36.4mm across.
The Bambino collection dates back to 2012 and has grown to include several generations, complications, and dial configurations. Most have shared the same basic design elements: domed crystals, rounded cases, curved lugs, and dials that borrow heavily from mid-century dress watches. Orient has offered smaller 38mm versions before, but this is the first Bambino to dip below that mark.
I think it’s a change that makes sense for this particular watch. I’ve always felt that the Bambino’s styling would benefit from a smaller case, especially given how much of its design draws from watches that were traditionally quite modest in size. The 36.4mm diameter feels more appropriate to me, and I’m glad Orient is finally offering it.
I’m also happy to see the date window disappear. Previous Bambino models have generally featured a date display at 3 o’clock, and I’ve never been particularly attached to that detail. Here, the three-hand layout is paired with applied baton markers and dauphine-style hands. In my opinion, the cleaner dial is one of the best changes Orient could have made. There’s enough going on with the domed crystal and curved case already.
Four versions are available, including white, cream, and muted green dial options, along with a gold-tone case paired with a silver dial. The stainless steel models retain the familiar polished bezel and brushed case sides. Leather straps with crocodile-style embossing complete the package.
Inside, Orient uses its automatic F6524 caliber with hand-winding, hacking seconds, and approximately 40 hours of power reserve. The watch also features a domed mineral crystal and 30 meters of water resistance. These are familiar specifications for the Bambino, and I don’t see much reason to expect anything particularly different from the movement here.
One thing I’m less enthusiastic about is the thickness. At 12.3mm, this is still a fairly tall watch for its 36.4mm diameter. Some of that measurement comes from the domed crystal, which has always been part of the Bambino’s character. Even so, I’d be curious to see how the smaller case looks from the side. A 42.2mm lug-to-lug measurement sounds promising, although the overall proportions are something I’d want to judge in person.
Orient lists the new model at $410, with a promotional selling price of $305. I think $305 is reasonable for an automatic dress watch from Orient, especially with the smaller case and revised dial. The $410 retail price is a little harder for me to get excited about, considering the mineral crystal and otherwise familiar specifications.
For now, I’m glad to see Orient offer a Bambino that addresses two of my longstanding reservations about the collection. I’ve passed on earlier versions because of their proportions, and the new 36mm model has me reconsidering that decision. The thickness still gives me something to think about, but I’d certainly be interested in seeing one in person.
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Michael Peñate is an American writer, photographer, and podcaster based in Seattle, Washington. His work typically focuses on the passage of time and the tools we use to connect with that very journey. From aviation to music and travel, his interests span a multitude of disciplines that often intersect with the world of watches – and the obsessive culture behind collecting them.