While Orient’s Bambino series has built its reputation as an ultimate bang-for-the-buck final destination for every automatic dress watch wannabe, the new additions to the Bambino 38 collection only further reinforce this claim. In 2022, the company released a baby Bambino in the form of the Bambino 38—a slightly smaller and unisex version of the rather notably famous 40.5mm sibling—still aiming at that smaller customer group wanting something dressier, a bit more versatile, and refined. Now, with three new dial colors and a steel bracelet hitting the market, the Bambino 38 has some serious potential to wow a fresh new audience.
Now, one of the real standout features of the Bambino 38 is in its case design. It measures in at 12.5mm thick, fairly chunky for a dress watch, but due to the domed crystal and polished finish, it wears sleekly, belying these dimensions. The curve of the dial, sunray brushed ever so lightly, combined with a matte finish, gives it a classy appeal, which is scarcely seen within this grade. The new color variants are soft and understated in how they bring personality to the design without really dominating the scene.
Under the hood, the Bambino 38 packs Orient’s in-house caliber F6724. Although not the most decorated movement out there, it provides respectable performance in a 40-hour power reserve, hand-winding, and hacking seconds—all features integral to a reliable everyday watch. The movement may not win any beauty awards, but it’s a proven engine that gets the job done.
But the real game-changer is this is the first time a steel bracelet is offered with the Bambino 38. Previously, it was only available on leather straps, and this new option gives it real versatility and makes the watch more suitable to be worn at times when a leather-strapped watch just won’t cut it. The bracelet is paired with a trifold deployant buckle with push-button release for added comfort and security.
Orient Bambino 38 Specifications
| Case Size | 38.4mm (diameter) x 44mm (lug-to-lug) x 12.5mm (thick) |
| Water Resistance | 30 meters |
| Movement | Orient in-house F6724 |
| Power Reserve | 40 hours |
| Case Material | Polished stainless steel |
| Crystal | Mineral glass |
| Bracelet | Stainless steel |
| Price | €330 |
At EUR 330, the new Orient Bambino 38 models are a great proposition. This means they’re ideal for formal events and still versatile enough for daily wear, which is sure to make these an excellent choice for those who want to diversify their collection with both style and a reliable time-teller without breaking the bank. The Bambino 38 remains a free, full-fledged alternative in the world of low-priced watches whether the attraction is the refreshing dial color or just the practicality of having a steel bracelet.
Co-Founder & Senior Editor
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.